Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
vanilla pastry cream 2.png

Pastry Cream Recipe: How to Make Smooth and Creamy Homemade Crème Pâtissière


  • Author: Valentina Lewis
  • Total Time: 3 to 4.5 hours
  • Yield: 1 batch (serves as a filling for various desserts) 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

🍮 Indulge in the luxurious texture and rich vanilla flavor of homemade Pastry Cream.
🥄 Perfect for filling éclairs, cream puffs, or tarts, it’s versatile and rewarding to make from scratch.


Ingredients

Scale

⅔ cup granulated sugar (approximately 133 g)
3 tablespoons cornstarch (about 40 g)
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional)
2 cups whole milk or 2% milk (480 mL)
1 cup heavy whipping cream (240 mL)
4 to 6 large egg yolks
1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise and seeds scraped
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Optional: cinnamon, lemon zest, coconut, almond extract, or 1 tablespoon rum


Instructions

1. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and flour.
2. Slowly whisk in heavy cream, then milk, ensuring even hydration of the starch.
3. In a separate bowl, beat egg yolks lightly. Temper yolks by adding a small amount of warm milk mixture, whisking constantly. Combine yolks back into the pot.
4. Add vanilla bean seeds and pod to the mixture.
5. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the cream thickens and begins to bubble, about 7 to 10 minutes. Avoid scorching.
6. Remove from heat, discard the vanilla pod, and strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve.
7. Stir in cold cubed butter until fully melted and incorporated.
8. Cover with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface to prevent skin formation.
9. Refrigerate for at least 3 to 4 hours until fully chilled and set.

Notes

🛡️ Tip: Do not skip the straining step for an ultra-smooth texture.
🍲 Tip: Use a heavy-bottomed pan for even cooking and to prevent burning.
🕒 Tip: Prepare pastry cream 1 to 2 days in advance for best flavors and easy dessert assembly.

  • Prep Time: 5 to 10 minutes
  • Chilling time: 2 to 4 hours
  • Cook Time: 7 to 10 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: Varies depending on use
  • Calories: 450-460
  • Sugar: 50g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Protein: 11g
  • Cholesterol: 400mg

Keywords: Pastry Cream, Crème Pâtissière, Dessert Filling, Vanilla Custard