ขนมถ้วยนมสด
ขนมถ้วยนมสด (Khanom Thuai Nom Sod) — Easy Thai Steamed Milk Custard
Introduction
ขนมถ้วยนมสด is a soft, delicate Thai steamed custard traditionally served in tiny cups. This version uses fresh milk (นมสด) for a creamier, milder flavor that beginners and home cooks will love. In this recipe you’ll learn how to make the classic two-layer texture—soft base with a silky top—using simple ingredients and a home steamer. Perfect for parties, snacks, or a sweet finish to a Thai meal.
Ingredients for ขนมถ้วยนมสด
- 140 g (1 cup) rice flour
- 30 g (3 tbsp) tapioca starch
- 150 g (3/4 cup) granulated sugar, divided
- 300 ml coconut milk (preferably full-fat)
- 200 ml fresh whole milk (นมสด)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- Small ceramic or silicone cups (about 20–24 mini cups)
Instructions to make ขนมถ้วยนมสด
- Prepare equipment: Fill your steamer pot with water and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Arrange cups on a heatproof tray that fits inside your steamer.
- Make the base batter: In a mixing bowl, combine rice flour, tapioca starch, and half of the sugar (about 75 g). Gradually whisk in 300 ml coconut milk until smooth and lump-free. Add a pinch of salt. Strain the batter through a fine sieve to remove lumps.
- Steam the base layer: Pour the base batter into cups, filling them about 2/3 full. Carefully place the tray in the steamer and cover. Steam over medium heat for 8–10 minutes until the base sets but is still soft and slightly jiggly. Remove cups from the steamer and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the milk topping: In a small saucepan, warm the fresh milk (นมสด) with the remaining sugar and vanilla (if using) over low heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Do not boil; just warm until sugar is fully melted. If you prefer a thicker top, you can mix 1 tsp tapioca starch with a little cold milk and add it to the warm milk to thicken slightly.
- Pour and steam the top layer: Gently spoon or pour the warm milk topping over the set base in each cup, filling nearly to the rim. Return the cups to the steamer and steam for another 4–6 minutes until the top layer is set and glossy.
- Cool and serve: Remove the cups from the steamer and let them cool to room temperature. For best texture, chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour before serving. Serve cold or at room temperature straight from the cups.
Cooking Tips for ขนมถ้วยนมสด
These practical tips help ensure a silky, consistent result every time:
- Strain batters and toppings to remove any lumps for a smooth custard surface.
- A gentle simmer is better than vigorous boiling; too much steam can make the top layer uneven.
- To prevent water condensation from dripping onto the custards, wrap the steamer lid with a clean kitchen towel (tuck the ends so the towel does not touch the heat source) or use a tight-fitting lid.
- Adjust sweetness to taste—reduce sugar if you prefer a less sweet dessert.
- If you don’t have tapioca starch, you can use cornstarch as a substitute, but the texture will be slightly different (less chew).
- Silicone molds are easy to unmold; ceramic cups give the traditional look and keep the custards cool longer.
- For a coconut-forward version, replace part or all of the fresh milk with additional coconut milk.
Nutritional Information for ขนมถ้วยนมสด (Approximate)
Below are estimated nutrition values per mini cup (one serving). These are approximate and will vary by exact ingredients and cup size.
- Calories: ~90–120 kcal
- Carbohydrates: ~18–22 g
- Fat: ~3–6 g (higher if using full-fat coconut milk)
- Protein: ~1–3 g
- Sugar: ~10–14 g (from added sugar and milk)
If you need precise nutrition facts for dietary reasons, calculate values based on the specific brands and quantities you use or consult a nutrition calculator.
Conclusion: ขนมถ้วยนมสด
ขนมถ้วยนมสด is an approachable, satisfying Thai dessert for beginners and home cooks. With a simple steaming method and common pantry ingredients, you can create delicate, creamy custards perfect for family gatherings or a sweet weekend project. Try the recipe as written first, then experiment with coconut-rich versions, pandan flavoring, or smaller molds to make bite-sized treats. Enjoy making and sharing this lovely Thai classic!
