Custard is a creamy dessert made from a mixture of milk or cream, sugar, and egg yolks. It is often thickened by cooking, which allows the eggs to coagulate and create a smooth texture. Custard can be served warm or cold and is a versatile base for many desserts, including crème brûlée and flan. There are two main types of custard: stirred custard, which is cooked on the stovetop and stirred continuously, and baked custard, which is poured into a dish and baked in the oven. Custard can also be flavored with vanilla, chocolate, or fruit, making it a popular choice for various sweet treats.