Vanilla cream

Vanilla cream: a classic and versatile dessert, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any meal. This simple and quick recipe will delight your senses and will surely become one of your favorites. With a velvety texture and an intense vanilla flavor, this cream can be used both as a filling for cakes and as a sauce for various desserts. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

- 100 g (½ pack) of butter
- 7 tablespoons of sugar
- 5 tablespoons of flour
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar or 1-2 tablespoons of vanilla extract
- 700 ml of milk
- 2-3 eggs (separate the yolks from the whites)
- A pinch of salt

A bit of history

Vanilla cream has a long story, being a staple ingredient in numerous desserts over time. Although its origins are often disputed, it is known to have been used since the 17th century when vanilla was brought from America to Europe. This delicate flavor has captured the hearts of many, quickly becoming a symbol of culinary refinement. Today, vanilla cream is an essential ingredient in pastry and cooking, used worldwide in various dishes.

Preparation technique

1. Preparing the cream base: Start by melting the butter in a heatproof bowl placed over a double boiler. Make sure the water in the pot does not touch the bowl with the butter. Add the 7 tablespoons of sugar and the vanilla sugar. Stir continuously to avoid lumps and to achieve a smooth mixture.

2. Incorporating the flour: Once the butter has completely melted, add the 5 tablespoons of flour, stirring vigorously. This will form a roux that will give the cream consistency.

3. Adding the milk: Gradually pour the 700 ml of hot milk into the butter and flour mixture. It is important to add the milk slowly while stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to stir until the cream becomes smooth and starts to thicken.

4. Cooking the flour: Add a pinch of salt and allow the cream to simmer over the double boiler for 5-10 minutes, stirring frequently. This step is essential to cook the flour and eliminate the raw flour taste, but if you intend to use the cream for oven fillings, you can skip this step.

5. Incorporating the yolks: Remove the cream from the heat and, after about 5 minutes, add the 2-3 yolks, one at a time. Stir quickly to incorporate them before the cream cools down.

6. Beating the egg whites: In another bowl, beat the egg whites with 2-3 tablespoons of sugar until you achieve a stiff foam. This will add an airy texture to the vanilla cream.

7. Finalizing the cream: Carefully fold the egg white foam into the warm cream using a spatula. Stir gently to avoid destroying the air in the egg whites, resulting in a light and fluffy cream.

Serving suggestions

This vanilla cream can be served in individual cups, alongside fresh fruits or crunchy cookies. It is also delicious as a filling for cakes, éclairs, or tarts. You can add a chocolate or caramel sauce for a contrast of flavors.

Variations

If you want to add a touch of originality to the recipe, try replacing part of the milk with cream for a richer taste and texture. You can also experiment with various flavors like chocolate, coffee, or even citrus.

Calories and nutritional benefits

Per serving, vanilla cream contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the exact ingredients used and the servings provided. It offers a good source of protein from the eggs and dairy, as well as healthy fats from the butter. However, it is important to consume this delicacy in moderation, considering its high sugar content.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I substitute milk with a plant-based alternative?
Yes, you can use almond, soy, or coconut milk, but the texture and flavor may vary.

- How can I make the cream fluffier?
Make sure to beat the egg whites well and gently fold them into the warm cream.

- Can I prepare the cream in advance?
Yes, the cream can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days. Make sure to cover it well to prevent a skin from forming on the surface.

Conclusion

This vanilla cream recipe is not only simple and quick but also extremely versatile, allowing for adaptation based on your culinary preferences. With each serving, you will bring a touch of refinement and flavor to your everyday life. Experiment with various combinations and feel free to share this recipe with your loved ones! Enjoy!