Classic Pastry Cream

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 8
Be the First to Review!

Classic Pastry Cream is a versatile staple every home cook should master. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it perfect for filling pastries, cakes, and tarts, transforming simple desserts into something special.

Ingredients for Classic Pastry Cream

The foundation of this recipe is whole milk, which gives the pastry cream its luscious texture. Granulated sugar sweetens the mixture just right, while all-purpose flour helps thicken it to the perfect consistency. A pinch of salt enhances the overall flavor, balancing the sweetness. The egg yolks provide richness and color, making the cream wonderfully velvety. For flavor, a splash of vanilla extract rounds everything out beautifully. Finally, a touch of unsalted butter adds a silky finish.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use fresh egg yolks for the best flavor and color.
  • If you see lumps forming, strain the pastry cream through a sieve for a smoother finish.
  • Chill the cream thoroughly if you plan to use it for filling pastries or layering cakes.

Serving Suggestions

Classic Pastry Cream pairs beautifully with fresh fruit in a tart shell. You can also layer it between sponge cake layers for a simple yet elegant dessert. For a touch of decadence, try folding in some whipped cream before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?
Whole milk is recommended for the best texture, but you can use low-fat milk if needed. The cream may not be as rich.
How long can I store the pastry cream?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s covered tightly to prevent it from absorbing other flavors.

Classic Pastry Cream Recipe Walkthrough

Start by heating your milk in a medium saucepan over medium heat until it’s just about to simmer. You’ll want to keep an eye on it so it doesn’t boil over. Meanwhile, grab a separate bowl and whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt until well combined.

Add the egg yolks to your sugar mixture, whisking until it’s smooth and has a pale color. This step is crucial for getting that perfect creamy texture, so don’t rush it.

Now, this is where you need to multitask a bit. Slowly pour the hot milk into your egg mixture while whisking constantly. This helps prevent any curdling and ensures a smooth cream.

Pour everything back into the saucepan and return it to medium heat. Keep stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and starts to boil. You’ll notice it gets nice and thick — that’s when you know it’s ready.

Once thickened, remove the pan from the heat. Stir in your vanilla extract and butter until they’re fully incorporated, giving the cream a lovely shine and flavor.

Transfer the pastry cream to a bowl, pressing a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Let it cool to room temperature before using.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to make with everyday ingredients.
  • Rich and creamy texture that's perfect for a variety of desserts.
  • Can be prepared in advance to save time on busy days.
  • Impress your guests with a homemade touch.

Ingredients

2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 large egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
2. Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt.
3. Add the egg yolks to the sugar mixture and whisk until smooth and pale in color.
4. Gradually pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
5. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and comes to a boil.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter until fully incorporated.
7. Transfer the pastry cream to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming, and let it cool to room temperature.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!