Step 1

Bring the milk, cream and vanilla pod to simmering point slowly over a low heat.

Step 2

Remove the vanilla pod (wash the vanilla pod, dry and store in jar with caster sugar to make vanilla sugar).

Step 3

Whisk the yolks, sugar and cornflour together in a bowl until well blended.

Step 4

Pour the hot milk and cream onto the eggs and sugar, whisking all the time with a balloon whisk.

Step 5

Return to the pan, (add vanilla extract if using) and over a low heat gently stir with a wooden spatula until thickened.

Step 6

Pour the custard into a jug and serve at once.

Step 7

To keep hot, stand the jug in a pan of hot water and cover the top with cling film to prevent skin forming.