Strawberries with pastry cream

Strawberries with Pastry Cream – A Spring Delight

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Strawberries with pastry cream are a refined and delicious combination, perfect for celebrating spring and summer. This simple recipe is not just an attractive dessert but also an opportunity to enjoy the fresh flavors of seasonal fruits. Additionally, pastry cream is a staple in French patisserie, with a rich history and a special place in the hearts of many dessert lovers.

Ingredients

- 120 g flour
- 200 g sugar
- 1 vial of vanilla
- 4 eggs
- 1 liter of milk
- 1 teaspoon of lemon zest (freshly grated)
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 300 g fresh strawberries

Ingredient details

- Flour: Use white flour, type 000, for a smooth and silky cream.
- Sugar: Powdered sugar can be an alternative for a finer cream, but granulated sugar works perfectly if mixed well.
- Vanilla: A vial of vanilla brings a deep flavor; you can also use vanilla paste or seeds from vanilla pods.
- Lemon: Freshly grated lemon zest will add a note of freshness, but be careful not to include the white part, which is bitter.
- Strawberries: Choose ripe, juicy strawberries, preferably from a local producer for optimal taste.

Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the cream

Start by placing the flour, granulated sugar, vanilla, and eggs in a bowl. Use a whisk to mix the ingredients until you achieve a homogeneous and slightly frothy mixture. This step is crucial, as the incorporated air will contribute to the final texture of the cream.

Step 2: Heating the milk

Pour the milk into a saucepan and heat it over medium heat. It is important to watch the milk so that it does not boil too hard. When the milk is hot but not boiling, take half of it and pour it over the egg mixture, stirring quickly. This is called tempering and prevents the eggs from curdling.

Step 3: Cooking the cream

After mixing the milk with the egg mixture, pour everything back into the saucepan. Continue to stir constantly over medium heat until the cream begins to thicken. This process can take a few minutes; patience is essential to achieve a smooth and homogeneous cream.

Step 4: Flavoring

When the cream has thickened, add the lemon zest and butter. These ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also the texture. Mix well, then remove the cream from the heat.

Step 5: Cooling the cream

Transfer the cream to a clean bowl and cover it with plastic wrap, ensuring that the wrap touches the surface of the cream. This step will prevent the formation of an unpleasant crust. Let the cream cool to room temperature, then place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

Step 6: Assembling the dessert

Once the cream has cooled, take it out of the refrigerator and mix it with a mixer to restore its fluffiness. In another bowl, add the strawberries cut in halves or quarters, gently mixing them into the pastry cream.

Layer the cream and strawberries into two layers: a layer of cream, a layer of strawberries, followed by a new layer of cream, and finish with strawberries on top. Decorating with a few fresh mint leaves can add an elegant touch.

Practical tips

- For added flavor, you can add a little strawberry liqueur or a splash of almond essence to the pastry cream.
- Variations: You can also use other berries like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries to create interesting combinations.
- Serving: This dessert pairs wonderfully with a glass of sparkling wine or a fruit tea, enhancing the sweet and fresh flavors.

Nutritional benefits

Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, contributing to a healthy diet. Pastry cream, while delicious, contains dairy that provides calcium and protein. Consumed in moderation, this dessert can be a healthy indulgence.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use plant-based milk?
Yes, you can use almond, soy, or coconut milk, but the texture and flavor of the cream may change.

2. How can I store the pastry cream?
The cream can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, well covered to avoid absorbing odors.

3. Can I make the cream in advance?
Absolutely! Making the cream a day ahead will save you time and allow the flavors to meld.

This dessert with strawberries and pastry cream is more than just a simple treat; it is a culinary experience that brings joy and freshness. Whether you choose to enjoy it in the company of loved ones or gift it as a sweet present, each bite will be an unforgettable pleasure. Cook with love, enjoy every step, and savor the result!