Vanilla Bean Pastry Cream

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, sugar, cornstarch, egg yolks, and salt until smooth.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it comes to a boil and thickens.
3. Remove from the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla bean.
4. Pour the mixture into a bowl and let cool to room temperature.
5. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 3 hours, or until chilled.

Interesting Facts

• Vanilla bean pastry cream is a classic French dessert.
• Real vanilla beans are used in this recipe for the best flavor.
• Pastry cream is a popular filling for cakes, pastries, and other desserts.