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Lemon Pastry Cream

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Lemon Pastry Cream is a smooth and velvety custard infused with the bright and tangy flavor of fresh lemon. Perfect for filling tarts, éclairs, cakes, or as a stand-alone dessert, this pastry cream is a versatile and indulgent treat that adds a burst of citrusy flavor to any dessert.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (divided)
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Heat the Milk:
    • In a medium saucepan, heat the milk and half of the sugar (1/4 cup) over medium heat until it just starts to steam. Do not boil.
  2. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
    • In a medium bowl, whisk together the remaining sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks until smooth and pale.
  3. Temper the Eggs:
    • Gradually pour about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
  4. Combine and Cook:
    • Slowly whisk the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and bubbles gently.
  5. Add Lemon and Butter:
    • Remove the saucepan from heat. Whisk in the butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully incorporated.
  6. Strain (Optional):
    • For an ultra-smooth texture, strain the pastry cream through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl.
  7. Cool:
    • Cover the surface of the pastry cream with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Allow it to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before using.

Notes

  • Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Consistency: If the cream thickens too much after refrigeration, whisk it vigorously or beat it with a hand mixer before using.
  • Uses: Ideal for tart fillings, cake layers, or as a topping for fresh fruit.

Keywords: Lemon Pastry Cream, pastry cream recipe, lemon custard, tart filling, citrus dessert, homemade pastry cream, lemon cream for tarts, creamy lemon filling, versatile dessert cream, lemon dessert recipe.

Find it online: https://inqelab.com/lemon-pastry-cream/