Description
Crema Pasticcera is a classic Italian pastry cream made with milk, egg yolks, sugar, and vanilla, resulting in a smooth, rich custard perfect for filling cakes, pastries, tarts, and desserts.
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract or seeds from 1 vanilla bean
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
- In a bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale and creamy.
- Whisk in cornstarch until smooth and lump-free.
- Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking continuously.
- Cook until the cream thickens and just begins to bubble.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and butter if using.
- Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface, and let cool.
- Refrigerate until ready to use.
Notes
- Whisk constantly to prevent lumps.
- Covering the surface prevents a skin from forming.
- Can be flavored with lemon or orange zest.
- Keeps refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian