Vanilla Pastry Cream
If you’re looking for an element that can elevate your desserts to a new level, Vanilla Pastry Cream should be high on your list. A rich, creamy custard that works wonders in a variety of desserts, this cream is one of the culinary world’s greatest treasures.
The good news is that it’s incredibly easy to make at home. Made with staple ingredients like milk, eggs, and sugar, you won’t need to go on a grocery store scavenger hunt. The vanilla paste adds a layer of aromatic complexity, making it one of the best options for your pastry desserts. Whether you are a baking enthusiast or a beginner, this recipe is a foolproof way to achieve a pastry cream with a restaurant-quality taste and texture. It’s the perfect vessel for many desserts, from tarts to trifles and everything in between.
Why You’ll Love Vanilla Pastry Cream
- Simple Ingredients, Rich Outcome Vanilla Pastry Cream is made from basic pantry staples like milk, eggs, and sugar. Yet, the outcome is incredibly rich and indulgent. This recipe provides high returns on relatively low effort and simple ingredients.
- Versatility The cream serves as an excellent base for various desserts. Whether you’re making a fruit tart, filling eclairs, or layering in a trifle, its smooth texture and rich flavor make it super delicious.
- Ease of Preparation With just a few kitchen tools and step-by-step instructions, preparing this cream is straightforward. No special skills are needed, making it ideal for bakers of all levels.
- Depth of Flavor The use of vanilla paste or a whole vanilla bean imparts a deep, aromatic vanilla flavor that takes the pastry cream to the next level. This elevates the taste and gives it a gourmet touch.
- Perfect Texture The cream achieves its luxurious texture through the perfect ratio of milk to egg yolks, and cornstarch as the thickening agent. The result is a silky-smooth cream that’s not too runny or too stiff.
What You Need To Make Vanilla Pastry Cream
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Stock pot
- Whisk
- Glass bowl
Ingredients You Need To Make Vanilla Pastry Cream
- Milk
- Egg yolks
- Egg
- Sugar
- Vanilla paste or a whole bean
- Salt
- Cornstarch
How To Make Vanilla Pastry Cream
- Add the milk and vanilla to a stockpot and place over medium heat.
- Bring to a boil.
- In a separate bowl mix together the eggs, sugar, salt, and cornstarch.
- Once the milk comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low.
- Whisk one spoonful of the milk into the egg mixture.
- Whisk quickly to temper the eggs.
- Add another spoonful to the bowl, while you whisk.
- Then add the egg mixture to the pot with the milk.
- Whisk until thick.
- Pour the pastry cream into a bowl, cover, and place in the fridge to chill completely.
- Enjoy!
Commonly Asked Questions
Can I Use a Vanilla Extract Instead of Paste?
Vanilla paste is preferred for its intense flavor, but you can use vanilla extract as a substitute.
How Long Does It Keep in the Fridge?
The Vanilla Pastry Cream can be stored in an airtight container and will last up to 3-4 days.
Can It Be Frozen?
It is possible to freeze it, but the texture may change upon thawing.
Is It Gluten-Free?
This recipe does not contain gluten, but always check your ingredients to make sure.
Vanilla Pastry Cream
Equipment
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Mixing Bowl
- Stock Pot
- Whisk
- Glass bowl
Ingredients
- 2 cups of Milk
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 egg
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla paste or a whole bean
- pinch of salt
- 4 tbsp cornstarch
Instructions
- Add the milk and vanilla to a stock pout and place over medium heat.
- Bring to a boil.
- In a separate bowl mix together the eggs, sugar, salt, and cornstarch.
- Once the milk comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low.
- Whisk one spoonful of the milk into the egg mixture.
- Whisk quickly to temper the eggs.
- Add another spoonful to the bowl, while you whisk.
- Then add the egg mixture to the pot with the milk.
- Whisk until thick.
- Pour the pastry cream in the bowl, cover and place in the fridge to chill completely.
- Enjoy!
Vanilla Pastry Cream is one of those classic recipes that stands the test of time for a good reason. Its rich, creamy texture serves as a blank canvas for an array of desserts, offering a versatility that’s hard to beat. The balanced sweetness, combined with the aromatic vanilla, brings a depth of flavor that complements a wide range of desserts. Whether you are an experienced baker or new to the kitchen, the ease with which this delightful cream comes together makes it a must-try recipe. A batch of Vanilla Pastry Cream in your fridge opens up a world of dessert possibilities, turning even simple dishes into gourmet treats.