Servings and Timing:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 2–3 hours
- Total Time: ~2 hrs 30 mins
- Yield: ~2 cups (enough for 1 tart or 12 éclairs)
Nutritional Info (Per 1/4 cup serving – Approximate)
- Calories: ~140
- Protein: ~3g
- Fat: ~6g
- Carbs: ~18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: ~14g
Ingredients List:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (or almond, citrus zest, liqueurs)
Instructions
Step 1: Warm the Milk
In a saucepan, heat milk over medium-low until steaming (not boiling). Set aside.
Step 2: Whisk Egg Yolks & Sugar
- In a bowl, whisk yolks and sugar until light and slightly thickened.
Step 3: Add Cornstarch & Salt
- Sift in cornstarch and salt. Whisk until smooth.
Step 4: Temper the Eggs
- Slowly whisk ~½ cup warm milk into the egg mixture.
- Then, pour the egg mix back into the pot with the remaining milk.
Step 5: Cook Until Thickened
- Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until thickened and bubbling (1–2 minutes).
Step 6: Finish with Butter & Vanilla
- Remove from heat. Stir in butter and vanilla until smooth and glossy.
Step 7: Strain & Chill
- Strain through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl.
- Press plastic wrap directly onto surface. Chill at least 2–3 hours.
Dietary Info:
- Gluten-Free
- Nut-Free
- Vegetarian
- Refined Sugar Optional (swap with honey, maple, or erythritol)
Flavor Tips & Customizations:
- Chocolate: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder or melted dark chocolate
- Citrus: Infuse milk with lemon or orange zest
- Coffee: Dissolve 1 tsp instant espresso in the warm milk
- Boozy: Add 1 tbsp rum, brandy, or liqueur after cooking
Serving Suggestions:
- Pipe into éclairs, cream puffs, or profiteroles
- Spread into tart shells and top with berries
- Layer in trifles or between cake layers
- Spoon into parfait glasses with whipped cream and granola
Storage & Reheat Tips:
- Fridge: Store covered for up to 3 days
- Reheat: Warm gently with a splash of milk and whisk smooth
- Freeze: Not recommended (texture may separate
