Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Milk Mixture
1. Combine half of the sugar (1/4 cup) and the milk in a medium saucepan.
2. If using a vanilla bean, scrape out the seeds and add them to the milk. (Vanilla extract should be added at the end.)
3. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves completely.
2. Prepare the Egg Mixture
1. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and remaining 1/4 cup of sugar until the mixture is smooth and pale.
2. Add the cornstarch, continuing to whisk until fully combined.
3. Temper the Eggs
1. Once the milk mixture is hot, slowly pour about one-third of it into the egg mixture, whisking constantly. This step raises the temperature of the eggs gradually, preventing them from curdling.
2. Return the tempered egg mixture to the saucepan with the remaining milk.
4. Cook the Custard
1. Place the saucepan back on medium heat and stir constantly.
2. The mixture will thicken and start to bubble after 2-3 minutes. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes to ensure the cornstarch is fully cooked.
5. Finish the Pastry Cream
1. Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the butter and vanilla extract (if not using a vanilla bean earlier).
2. Strain the cream through a fine sieve into a clean bowl to remove any lumps.
3. Cover the cream with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming.
4. Allow it to cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
Expert Tips for Success
Use Fresh Ingredients: High-quality milk, eggs, and butter significantly improve the flavor and texture.
Stir Constantly: Consistent stirring prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, velvety texture.
Strain the Cream: This step removes any small clumps, ensuring a perfect finish.
Cover Properly: Prevent skin formation by pressing plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the cream.
Variations to Customize Your Pastry Cream
Chocolate Pastry Cream
Add 4 ounces (113 grams) of chopped dark chocolate to the hot pastry cream after removing it from the heat. Stir until fully melted and incorporated.
Coffee Pastry Cream
Dissolve 2 tablespoons of instant coffee granules in the warm milk mixture before combining with the eggs.
Creative Ways to Use Pastry Cream
Éclairs and Cream Puffs: Pipe cold pastry cream into éclairs or cream puffs for a classic treat.
Layer Cakes: Spread it between cake layers for a rich and creamy filling.
Fruit Tarts: Fill baked tart shells with pastry cream and top with fresh fruit for a show-stopping dessert.
Conclusion
Perfecting pastry cream is a skill that every baker should master. This versatile recipe is the foundation for countless desserts, offering endless opportunities to showcase your creativity in the kitchen. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, your pastries will leave a lasting impression.
Start practicing today and enjoy the satisfaction of crafting bakery-quality desserts at home!
