Apple Sesame Custard with Berry Sauce
Apple Sesame Custard with Berry Sauce
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6
Category: Dessert
Author: Chef Marlene Watson Tara
Date Published: June 25, 2026
Ingredients
5 cups organic apple juice
7 tbsp agar-agar flakes
2 tbsp finely grated lemon zest
4 tbsp light or white tahini
2 tbsp rice syrup
1 whole vanilla pod or ½ tsp vanilla essence
Fresh berries, for garnish
250 g fresh strawberries, hulled and thinly sliced
125 g fresh raspberries
125 g fresh blueberries
125 g fresh blackberries
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
⅓ cup rice syrup, for berry sauce
Description
A smooth apple sesame custard made with apple juice, agar-agar, lemon zest, tahini, rice syrup, and vanilla, served with a bright mixed berry sauce. This refreshing vegan dessert can be served on its own or used as a topping for other desserts.
How-to? Steps
Step 1: Soak agar
Put the apple juice, agar-agar flakes, and lemon zest into a medium saucepan. Leave to soak for 10–15 minutes.
Step 2: Cook custard base
Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the agar flakes dissolve.
Step 3: Add tahini and vanilla
Remove from heat and add the tahini and vanilla. If using a vanilla pod, slice it lengthwise and scrape out the seeds.
Step 4: Set and blend
Pour the hot liquid into a shallow bowl and leave to cool until firm. Transfer to a blender and puree until smooth.
Step 5: Chill
Place the custard in a covered container in the fridge until ready to serve.
Step 6: Prepare berry sauce
Combine all berries in a large bowl and gently stir. Transfer about two-thirds to a saucepan, keeping the rest chilled for later. Add lemon juice and rice syrup.
Step 7: Cook sauce
Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat and cook until syrupy, about 5 minutes.
Step 8: Puree and strain
Blend the hot berry mixture until smooth. Remove the centre cap from the blender lid and cover with a kitchen towel to let steam escape. Strain through a fine mesh strainer if a smooth sauce is desired.
Step 9: Serve
Serve the custard on its own or as a topping, with berry sauce and reserved fresh berries.