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Pastry Cream Recipe Pastry Cream Recipe

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Pastry Cream Recipe

I whip up a silky pastry cream with milk, vanilla, sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks. Stir until thick, then chill. Perfect for filling tarts, éclairs, or just eating by the spoonful!

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Pastry cream is a versatile delight that elevates any dessert. Whether filling eclairs, layering in a trifle, or simply enjoyed by the spoonful, this creamy, luscious treat is a must-have in your baking repertoire. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you'll master a classic that brings a touch of elegance to your homemade sweets. Let's dive in and whip up some magic!

Pastry Cream Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 6 tablespoons sugar
  • 4 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 4 units egg yolks
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan, heat the milk and vanilla extract until just boiling.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks until smooth.
  3. Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
  4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted and smooth.
  6. Pour the pastry cream into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and chill until ready to use.

What You Will Need

What you will need to make pastry cream

  • Milk: Provides the creamy base, essential for the smooth texture of the pastry cream.
  • Vanilla extract: Adds a rich, aromatic flavor, making the cream taste more indulgent.
  • Sugar: Sweetens the cream, balancing the flavors and enhancing the overall taste.
  • Cornstarch: Thickens the mixture, giving the pastry cream its desired consistency.
  • Egg yolks: Contribute to the richness and help thicken the cream.
  • Butter: Adds a silky finish and enhances the cream's smoothness.

Tools and Instruments Needed

What tools/instruments will be needed to make pastry cream recipe

  • Saucepan: Heats milk and vanilla extract evenly, ensuring a smooth mixture without burning.
  • Mixing bowl: Combines sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks into a smooth, lump-free mixture.
  • Whisk: Blends ingredients thoroughly, preventing lumps and ensuring a creamy texture.
  • Plastic wrap: Covers pastry cream to prevent a skin from forming while chilling.
pastry-cream-recipe

Pastry Cream Recipe

A classic pastry cream recipe perfect for filling cakes, tarts, and pastries.
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Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 10 mins
Total Time 20 mins
Course Dessert
Cuisine French
Servings 4 servings
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Mixing bowl

Ingredients:  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 6 tablespoons sugar
  • 4 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 4 units egg yolks
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions: 

  • In a saucepan, heat the milk and vanilla extract until just boiling.
  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks until smooth.
  • Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
  • Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
  • Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted and smooth.
  • Pour the pastry cream into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and chill until ready to use.

Notes:

Make sure to whisk constantly to avoid lumps.

Nutrition value:

Calories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 5gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 200mgSugar: 20gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Keywords:

Keyword Pastry Cream
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Make Ahead and Freezing Instructions

Make Ahead Instructions

  • Prepare the pastry cream as directed.
  • Let it cool to room temperature.
  • Transfer to an airtight container.
  • Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Instructions

  • Cool the pastry cream completely.
  • Place in a freezer-safe container.
  • Freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Thaw in the fridge overnight before using.

For an extra rich pastry cream, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ:
How long can I store pastry cream in the fridge?
Pastry cream can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze pastry cream?
Freezing pastry cream is not recommended as it can alter the texture.
What can I use pastry cream for?
Pastry cream is great for filling eclairs, cream puffs, tarts, and cakes.
Can I make pastry cream without cornstarch?
Yes, you can use flour as a substitute, but the texture might be slightly different.
How do I prevent a skin from forming on the pastry cream?
Cover the surface directly with plastic wrap while it cools to prevent a skin from forming.

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