A chilled bowl of fruit custard feels like a hug on a warm evening. However, for many of us who skip dairy, the fear is missing out. The good news? You don’t need to compromise. By choosing the right dairy-free “milk” and pantry staples, you can recreate that creamy taste, with textures you’ll love and flavours that delight.
This guide walks you through finding everything you need at your local grocery store near me – No hassle, just an easy, delicious dessert — minus the dairy.
Why Go Dairy-Free in Your Custard
Dairy-free isn’t just for those who are lactose intolerant. Plant milks like almond, oat, and coconut are light, easy to digest, and packed with their subtle flavours. For example, almond milk gives a gentle nuttiness, while coconut milk adds richness without heaviness.
Even better? Most grocery stores now offer a wide range of these options, making it simple to find one that suits your taste and needs. Now, you can enjoy the taste you love while making your fruit custard a bit easier on your digestion.
How to Build a Dairy-Free Custard Base Using Everyday Staples
Toss aside the traditional recipe for a fruit custard.
These simple ingredient swaps—available at any grocery store near me—make a smooth custard possible:
- Unsweetened plant-based milk: almond, oat, or soy – choose what you enjoy.
- Thickeners: cornflour or arrowroot powder—no eggs needed
- Natural sweeteners: a spoon of jaggery, date syrup, or maple syrup
- Flavour accents: vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon
To make it: whisk the milk with cornflour and sweetener until no lumps remain. Gently heat on low, stirring constantly, until the mixture has thickened. Remove from the heat and add finishing flavours like cinnamon or vanilla before cooling it.
Where to Find These Ingredients
You won’t have to wander far for any of these dairy-free items:
Supermarkets and Grocery Outlets
Most supermarkets stock popular plant-based milks, such as almond, soy, or coconut, in their regular aisles. These items are often restocked daily, so you can consistently find what you need. Just visit a grocery store near me and gather your essentials.
Health and Wellness Shops
Local health food stores often feature niche brands and smaller packaging options, including organic or nut-based drinks such as cashew or pea milk.
Online Grocery Platforms
Looking for convenience? Just add filters like “dairy-free” or “plant-based” into the search bar. Many services now allow early delivery, ensuring fresh milk alternatives arrive faster.
Organic or Farmers’ Markets
If you have one nearby, it’s worth checking out. You can often find fresh coconut milk, homemade almond milk, or small-batch alternatives that aren’t available elsewhere.
Add Fruits and Finishing Touches
With your dairy-free base ready, it’s time for fresh fruit and fun toppings:
- Mix-ins: mango, grapes, apples, banana—cut just before serving
- Optional boosters: granola, crushed nuts, or chia seeds for a fun twist
- Serving idea: layer custard and fruits in a jar for a colourful parfait-style treat.
Always cool the base fully before adding fruit.
Final Scoop: You’ve Got Options
You don’t need dairy to enjoy a satisfying, creamy bowl of fruit custard. With pantry basics and creative plant-based swaps, you can make a chilled fruit custard that’s just as delicious—and more mindful.
So next time you crave fruit custard, look on those shelves. You’ll find the perfect blend waiting to be poured, stirred, and enjoyed—without any guesswork or compromise.
