top of page

Simple Pastry Vanilla Cream

Aug 6, 2024
4 min read

Updated: 2 days ago



  • Pastry cream, also known as crème pâtissière, is a rich and versatile custard that serves as a fundamental component in many classic desserts. Its smooth texture and delightful flavor make it an essential element in pastries, tarts, cakes, and even as a filling for éclairs and cream puffs. The preparation of pastry cream is straightforward and can be accomplished in just a few simple steps. Below, you will find a detailed recipe that guides you through the process of making this delightful cream with ease.


Ingredients

To prepare classic pastry cream, you will need the following ingredients:


- 2 cups of whole milk

- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar

- 1/4 cup of cornstarch

- 4 large egg yolks

- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter

- 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract

- A pinch of salt


Instructions

1. **Combine the Milk and Sugar**: Begin by pouring the milk into a medium-sized saucepan. Add half of the granulated sugar to the milk. This combination will not only sweeten the cream but also enhance its flavor. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir gently until the sugar is completely dissolved. You want to heat the milk until it is steaming but not boiling.


2. **Whisk the Dry Ingredients**: In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining sugar, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. This mixture will help to thicken the pastry cream and give it a smooth consistency.


3. **Prepare the Egg Yolks**: In another bowl, take the egg yolks and whisk them until they are light and frothy. This step is crucial as it helps to aerate the yolks, which will contribute to the cream's overall texture.


4. **Combine the Mixtures**: Once the milk is heated, slowly pour a small amount of the hot milk into the bowl with the egg yolks while whisking constantly. This process, known as tempering, prevents the eggs from curdling. Gradually add the rest of the milk to the egg mixture, continuing to whisk until fully combined.


5. **Thicken the Cream**: Pour the combined mixture back into the saucepan and return it to medium heat. Stir the mixture continuously with a wooden spoon or a whisk. As it heats, the cornstarch will activate, and the cream will begin to thicken. Keep stirring until the mixture comes to a gentle boil and has reached a custard-like consistency. This should take about 5-7 minutes.


6. **Finish with Butter and Vanilla**: Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the unsalted butter and pure vanilla extract until fully incorporated. The butter adds a luxurious richness to the pastry cream, while the vanilla provides a classic flavor that enhances the overall taste.


7. **Cool the Pastry Cream**: Transfer the pastry cream to a clean bowl. To prevent a skin from forming on the surface, cover it with plastic wrap, making sure the wrap is in direct contact with the cream. Allow it to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes before refrigerating. Once cooled, the pastry cream can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.


Tips for Success

- Make sure to whisk continuously while cooking to ensure that the cream thickens evenly and does not stick to the bottom of the pan.

- If you prefer a flavored pastry cream, consider infusing the milk with ingredients such as citrus zest, coffee, or chocolate before combining it with the egg mixture.

- Pastry cream can be used as a base for other desserts, such as mousses or fruit tarts, making it a versatile addition to your dessert repertoire.

Conclusion
  • By following this simple recipe, you can create a delicious classic pastry cream that is not only easy to make but also incredibly rewarding. Enjoy using it in your favorite desserts, and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills!

Ingredients: simple, total time: 15 min. 6 servings
  • 100 g of sugar

  • 500 g of whole milk

  • 5 egg yolks

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla sugar/ or 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, or 1/2 vanilla pod seeds

  • 50 g flour 00

vanilla-cream
Pastry Vanilla Cream
Preparation:
  1. Beat egg yolks with sugar and vanilla sugar until foamy. Then add flour, mix again with mixer on low speed. Mix everything well without lumps.

  2. Pour the milk into the saucepan and heat over low to moderate heat.

  3. Separate a little milk and pour it into the egg yolk mixture and mix well.

  4. When the milk has become hot, add the mixture slowly and mix with a hand whisk until you get the consistency of the mixture you are looking for.

  5. Pour the finished cream into a bowl and cover with transparent foil so that it is directly in contact with the cream. Leave at room temperature to cool. After that, apply the cream to the pastry.

2. Custard cream by the Spoonful
Ingredients: simple, total time: 15 min, 800 g
  • 500 ml milk

  • 3 eggs

  • 100 g sugar

  • 1 vanilla pod/ the seeds

  • 45 g cornstarch

Preparation:
  1. It is the same procedure as the first recipe, with the fact that it is starch and not flour.


Buon appetito!


NOTE:
  • Store the cream for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.


  • Use the contact form for questions or advice.

  • I would be happy if you would comment on my recipes and give them a like.

Comments

Rated 0 out of 5 stars.
No ratings yet

Add a rating*
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • YouTube

Trieste, FVG, Italy

bottom of page