Are you ready to indulge in a world of creamy, dreamy, and utterly delicious treats? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 mouthwatering recipes that feature creamy vanilla custard fillings as the star of the show. From classic pastry cream to decadent donut fillings, and from silky smooth bavarian creams to light-as-air fruit tart fillings, these recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a new dessert to try, these vanilla custard filling recipes are perfect for anyone who loves a good treat. So grab your mixing bowls, preheat your ovens, and get ready to dive into the wonderful world of creamy vanilla custards!
Classic Vanilla Bean Custard Filling
Add a creamy and indulgent touch to your pastries, cakes, or pies with this simple yet elegant vanilla bean custard filling recipe. With its smooth texture and subtle sweetness, it’s the perfect complement to any baked good.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves and mixture simmers.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add warm cream mixture to egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
4. Stir in the split vanilla bean and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the custard thickens slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Silky Vanilla Pastry Cream
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and creamy Silky Vanilla Pastry Cream. Perfect for topping cakes, pastries, or using as a dip for fruit.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the heavy cream and whole milk until soft peaks form.
2. Gradually add the granulated sugar, continuing to whip until stiff peaks develop.
3. Add the vanilla extract and whip for an additional 30 seconds.
4. Refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow it to chill and set.
5. When ready to serve, give the cream a good whisk before using.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (includes chilling time)
Rich Vanilla Custard for Eclairs
This classic French custard recipe is a crucial component of authentic éclairs. With its creamy texture and deep vanilla flavor, it’s sure to elevate your pastry game.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and vanilla extract.
3. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm milk mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
4. Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before using in your éclair recipe.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fluffy Vanilla Bavarian Cream Filling
Elevate your cakes and pastries with this light and airy vanilla bavarian cream filling, perfect for topping or filling sweet treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the heavy cream until it begins to thicken.
2. Add the softened butter and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
3. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, whisking until smooth and creamy.
4. Add the kosher salt and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine.
5. Whip the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until it becomes light and airy.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a no-bake affair, perfect for whipping up in just a few minutes.
Decadent Vanilla Custard for Donuts
Elevate your donut game with this rich and creamy vanilla custard filling that’s sure to impress. This decadent treat is perfect for topping donuts, cakes, or even using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolks. Gradually add the hot cream mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Strain the custard into a clean bowl to remove any egg solids.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Homemade Vanilla Pudding Filling
Elevate your desserts with this classic vanilla pudding filling recipe, perfect for cakes, pastries, and fruit parfaits. This homemade version is easy to make and boasts a rich, creamy texture and authentic vanilla flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, and salt until the sugar is dissolved.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm milk mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
3. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the pudding thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 10-12 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Strain the pudding through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Velvety Vanilla Crème Pâtissière
A rich and creamy French pastry cream perfect for filling cakes, pastries, or using as a topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (250 ml) whole milk
– 1/2 cup (125 g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to simmer.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolks. Gradually pour the warm milk mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
3. Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cream thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Strain the crème pâtissière into a clean bowl to remove any cooked egg solids.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Light Vanilla Custard for Fruit Tarts
This light and creamy custard is the perfect base for topping your favorite fruit tarts. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a delicious and elegant dessert to impress any crowd.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar.
2. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolks. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm custard mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
4. Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the custard thickens slightly.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature before using.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vanilla Custard Filling for Cream Puffs
Transform your cream puffs into a decadent treat with this classic vanilla custard filling recipe. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be rewarded with a creamy, velvety delight that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and salt. Gradually add the warm milk mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
3. Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Strain the custard into a clean bowl and let it cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Eggless Vanilla Custard Filling
A creamy and rich vanilla custard filling that’s perfect for cakes, pastries, or cookies.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, milk, and salt until dissolved.
3. Add vanilla extract and whisk well.
4. Gradually add cornstarch while whisking continuously.
5. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
7. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Cooking Time: About 10-15 minutes
Vanilla Custard Filling for Layer Cakes
Elevate your layer cakes with this classic vanilla custard filling recipe. This creamy and sweet filling is perfect for sandwiching between moist cake layers or as a topping for cakes and pastries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200ml) whole milk
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add 1/4 cup of the warm milk mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
3. Return the saucepan to medium heat and pour in the egg yolk mixture. Cook, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly before using.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vanilla Custard with Whipped Cream Filling
This classic dessert recipe combines rich vanilla custard with a fluffy whipped cream filling, perfect for topping cakes, pies, or serving on its own. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this creamy treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– Whipped cream (heavy cream and sugar to taste)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves and mixture simmers.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add warm milk mixture to egg yolks, whisking constantly.
4. Pour mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or cups. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until edges are set and centers still slightly jiggly.
5. Allow custards to cool completely. Whip heavy cream with sugar to desired sweetness. Fill cooled custards with whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vanilla Custard Filling for Danish Pastries
This rich and creamy filling is the perfect complement to flaky danish pastry dough. With its smooth texture and sweet vanilla flavor, it’s sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolks. Temper the egg yolks by gradually adding the warm cream mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly.
3. Return the saucepan to the heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Strain the filling into a clean bowl to remove any bubbles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vanilla Custard Filling for Profiteroles
Elevate your profiterole game with this classic vanilla custard filling recipe. This creamy and smooth filling is the perfect accompaniment to your freshly baked choux pastry balls.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add a little of the warm milk mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
3. Pour the egg yolk mixture into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any egg solids.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Vanilla Custard Filling for Napoleons
This classic French filling is a crucial component of the iconic Napoleon pastry. With its creamy texture and sweet, vanilla flavor, it’s sure to elevate your baked goods to new heights.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add 1/4 cup of the warm milk mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
3. Return the saucepan to medium heat and pour in the egg yolk mixture. Cook, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Strain the custard into a clean bowl to remove any cooked egg bits.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vanilla Custard Filling for Choux Pastry
Elevate your Choux Pastry game with this rich and creamy Vanilla Custard Filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200ml) whole milk
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add the hot milk mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
6. Strain the filling into a clean bowl to remove any potential egg solids.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vanilla Custard Filling for Mille-Feuille
This classic French custard filling is a crucial component of the iconic pastry, Mille-Feuille. With its creamy texture and delicate vanilla flavor, it’s the perfect accompaniment to layers of puff pastry and caramelized fruit.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and salt. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm milk mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
3. Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl.
Cooking Time: About 15 minutes
Vanilla Custard Filling for Trifle Desserts
Elevate your trifle desserts with this classic vanilla custard filling recipe. This rich and creamy filling is perfect for layering with fruits, cakes, or cookies.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to simmer.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add 1/4 cup of the warm milk mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
3. Return the saucepan to medium heat and gradually pour in the egg yolk mixture, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the custard thickens.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
6. Strain the custard into a clean bowl to remove any potential egg solids.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vanilla Custard Filling for Crepes
Add a rich and creamy touch to your crepe dishes with this simple vanilla custard filling recipe. Perfect for both sweet and savory fillings, this classic French dessert is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and kosher salt. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm milk mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
3. Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Strain the filling through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vanilla Custard Filling for Stuffed French Toast
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this rich and creamy vanilla custard filling, perfectly suited for stuffed French toast. This recipe yields a smooth and velvety texture that will complement the crispy bread and sweet toppings of your choice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolks. Gradually add the warm cream mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
4. Return the saucepan to the heat and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Strain the custard into a clean bowl to remove any bubbles.
6. Use immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the richness of vanilla with these 20 creamy custard filling recipes. From classic vanilla bean to decadent donut fillings, this collection has something for every dessert lover. Discover silky pastry creams, fluffy bavarian fillings, and velvety crème pâtissière perfect for eclairs, cream puffs, and more. Whether you’re looking for a light and airy fruit tart filling or a rich and indulgent layer cake filler, these recipes will satisfy your sweet tooth. Get creative and elevate your baking game with these delicious vanilla custard fillings!
