Shellfish Free Vanilla Pear Custard Cups

Silky, gently set, and topped with tender poached pears, these little custard cups are the kind of dessert that feels far more impressive than the ingredient list suggests. A real vanilla bean does serious work here — steeping in warm whole milk until the custard base is fragrant and deeply flavored before a single egg yolk even enters the picture. The water bath method keeps the heat gentle and even, which is exactly what gives each cup that slow, elegant wobble when it comes out of the oven. Poaching the pears in a light sugar syrup softens them just enough while keeping their shape, so every spoonful has a contrast of cool, creamy custard and delicate fruit. Because this recipe is built entirely from dairy, eggs, fresh fruit, and sugar, there are no hidden ingredients to second-guess — just clean, straightforward components you can feel good about. It's an ideal make-ahead dessert since the custards need time to chill, meaning the hard work is done long before guests arrive.

About Fig

Fig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.

Learn more →