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Classic Pastry Cream

A rich and creamy vanilla custard perfect for tarts, cakes, and cream puffs. Easy to make and versatile for various diets.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups milk
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 4 egg yolks
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Heat the milk in a saucepan until it begins to simmer.
  2. Whisk together the sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch in a bowl until smooth.
  3. Add the hot milk to the egg mixture gradually while whisking continuously.
  4. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and bubbles (about 5-7 minutes).
  5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
  6. Transfer the pastry cream to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let cool before using.

Notes

Store pastry cream in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Can be adapted for lower sugar or higher protein versions.

  • Author: miguel-santiago
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: French
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/3 cup
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 90mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 210mg

Keywords: pastry cream, vanilla custard, dessert, sweet sauce, meal prep