Crema pastelera

Ingredientes

• 100 grams (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
• 110 grams (6 large) egg yolks
• 30 grams (1/4 cups) cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 568 grams (2 1/2 cups, 600 ml) whole milk
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract or vanilla paste (optional)
• 28 grams (2 tablespoons) unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

Preparación

1. 1

   Measure out all of the ingredients. Cut the...: Measure out all of the ingredients. Cut the butter into small pieces.

2. 2

   In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg...: In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg yolks (110 grams, 6 large) with the sugar (100 grams, ½ cup), cornstarch (30 grams, ¼ cup), and salt (¼ teaspoon) with a whisk until foamy and about double in size. This will ensure a smooth pastry cream.

3. 3

   In a saucepan, heat the milk (568 grams,...: In a saucepan, heat the milk (568 grams, 2 ½ cups) until it starts to boil.

4. 4

   Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring about...: Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring about half of the milk into the egg/cornstarch mixture while whisking continuously. It can be helpful to nestle the mixing bowl in a damp kitchen towel to stabilize the bowl while you whisk and pour.

5. 5

   Pour the milk/egg mixture back into the pot...: Pour the milk/egg mixture back into the pot with the remainder of the milk and cook over low heat, whisking continuously, until the mixture thickens and starts rapidly bubbling. Do not rush this process.

6. 6

   Pour the hot pastry cream through a fine...: Pour the hot pastry cream through a fine mesh sieve.

7. 7

   If you are adding any chocolate or other...: If you are adding any chocolate or other flavorings, they can be whisked in at this point. Add the butter (28 grams, 2 tablespoons) and vanilla (1 ½ teaspoons) and whisk in.

8. 8

   Place a piece of plastic wrap right on...: Place a piece of plastic wrap right on top of the pastry cream and refrigerate until ready to use.

9. 9

   Pastry cream can be stored in an airtight...: Pastry cream can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.