Vanilla cream

Vanilla Lime Cream - A Versatile and Refined Delicacy

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Vanilla cream is an essential element in pastry, used either as a filling for cakes or as a base for various delicious desserts. This simple yet incredibly flavorful recipe combines the sweetness of vanilla with the freshness of lime, offering a unique and captivating flavor. Here’s how to prepare it step by step!

Ingredients needed:
- 2 egg yolks
- 50 g sugar
- 1 ½ tablespoons cornstarch
- 300 ml milk
- 1 vanilla extract
- 1 lemon extract
- Zest of 1 fresh lime

Ingredient tips:
- Use fresh eggs, as they will influence the texture and taste of the cream.
- Cornstarch is essential for achieving a creamy consistency, so make sure it is well sifted before use.
- Whole milk will provide a richer and creamier texture, but you can also use semi-skimmed milk if you prefer a lower-calorie option.
- Lime zest adds a note of freshness, but you can also experiment with orange zest for a different flavor.

Step by step to a perfect cream:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by separating the egg yolks from the whites, ensuring that no egg white remains in the mixture. This is a key step, as the egg whites are not used in this recipe.

2. Mixing the dry ingredients: In a pot, combine the egg yolks with the sugar and cornstarch. Use a whisk to mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. This mixture is the base of your creaminess.

3. Adding the milk: Add a little cold milk to the egg yolk mixture to dilute it. This step helps prevent the eggs from coagulating quickly when exposed to heat. Stir constantly.

4. Heating the mixture: Place the pot over low heat. It’s important to maintain a low temperature to prevent the cream from burning. Stir frequently to avoid sticking to the bottom of the pot.

5. Adding flavors: Once the mixture starts to thicken, add the vanilla extract, lemon extract, and lime zest. These flavors will enhance the taste of the cream and add a touch of refinement.

6. Finishing the preparation: Continue stirring until the cream thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Then, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool. It’s essential to continue stirring occasionally to prevent a crust from forming.

7. Cooling: Once the cream has completely cooled, you can use it immediately to fill cakes or tarts, or you can store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for later use.

Serving suggestions:
This vanilla lime cream is perfect as a filling for a fruit tart or a chocolate cake. It can also be served plain, topped with a dollop of whipped cream, or alongside crispy cookies for a contrast of textures. Another great idea is to use it as a base for a parfait with fresh fruits and granola.

Nutritional information:
This recipe contains approximately 150 calories per serving, making it an excellent choice for those who want a delicious yet light dessert. The egg yolks provide a source of protein and essential vitamins, while the milk offers calcium.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use plant-based milk?
Yes, you can substitute cow's milk with almond, soy, or coconut milk, but keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly.

2. How can I improve the texture of the cream?
For an even smoother cream, you can blend it with a blender or hand mixer after it has cooled.

3. Can vanilla cream be frozen?
It is not recommended to freeze vanilla cream, as the texture may alter upon thawing.

Possible variations:
- Add melted chocolate to create a delicious chocolate cream.
- Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a unique flavor.
- Experiment with different citrus fruits, such as oranges or lemons, to create interesting variations.

Now that you have all the necessary details, all that’s left is to get cooking! This vanilla lime cream is not only easy to prepare but also a true delight that will impress anyone. Enjoy!