In a saucepan, bring heavy cream, vanilla extract, ½ cup of sugar, and a pinch of salt to a slow simmer over low heat.
In a large bowl, whip the egg yolks with ½ cup of sugar until it forms a paste-like consistency.
Add a few spoonfuls of the simmering cream to the egg mixture while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
Repeat the tempering process by adding another spoonful of cream to the mixture.
Slowly whisk the remaining cream into the egg mixture until fully incorporated.
Transfer the mixture to a double boiler and place it over heat.
Cook for 8 to 12 minutes, constantly stirring, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Pour the cooked custard through a fine sieve into a bowl to remove any lumps.
Serve the custard over fresh berries.