Easy Guide to Prepare Vanilla Bean Pastry Cream Like a Chef

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Vanilla bean pastry cream –Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of homemade vanilla bean pastry cream. This delightful dessert component is perfect for filling pastries, cakes, and even enjoying on its own. Follow this straightforward recipe to create a luxurious vanilla bean pastry cream that will elevate your culinary creations.

Homemade Vanilla Bean Pastry Cream

This easy-to-follow recipe harnesses the exquisite flavor of vanilla beans, allowing you to make a perfectly smooth and velvety pastry cream. Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you begin to ensure a seamless preparation process.

Vanilla Bean Pastry Cream

Ingredients

  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped (or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract)
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, granulated sugar, and the seeds from the vanilla bean along with the vanilla pod itself. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it is hot but not boiling, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt until well combined and smooth.
  3. Once the milk mixture is hot, gradually whisk it into the egg yolk mixture to temper the eggs. This will help prevent the eggs from scrambling. Make sure to add it slowly and whisk continuously.
  4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens and begins to bubble, about 3-5 minutes.
  5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the unsalted butter until melted and fully combined. If using vanilla extract instead of a bean, add it now.
  6. Pour the pastry cream into a clean bowl and cover with plastic wrap, making sure the wrap touches the surface of the cream to prevent a skin from forming. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until fully chilled, about 2 hours.

Your homemade vanilla bean pastry cream is now ready to use. Enjoy it as a filling for eclairs, cream puffs, or any dessert where creamy decadence is desired. This versatile dessert component not only enhances flavors but also adds an element of sophistication to your presentation.