Are you ready to revolutionize your dessert game with a silky-smooth, dairy-free pastry cream that's so decadent, you'll wonder how something so incredible can be both vegan and ridiculously easy to make? Get ready to impress your friends, family, and even the most skeptical food critics with this game-changing recipe that proves plant-based desserts can be just as luxurious and satisfying as traditional versions!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup coconut cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together almond milk, cornstarch, and sugar until completely smooth and no lumps remain.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Continue cooking and stirring, allowing the mixture to gradually thicken and come to a gentle simmer. This process should take approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Once the mixture starts to bubble and thicken significantly, reduce heat to low and continue stirring for an additional 2-3 minutes until it reaches a pudding-like consistency.
- Remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in coconut cream and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Transfer the pastry cream to a clean bowl and cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming.
- Refrigerate the pastry cream for at least 2 hours to cool completely and allow it to set further.
- Before serving, whisk the chilled pastry cream briefly to restore its creamy texture. Use as a filling for pastries, cakes, or enjoy on its own.
Tips
- Whisk Like Your Dessert Depends On It: The key to a lump-free pastry cream is constant, vigorous whisking when combining ingredients. Take your time and be patient during the initial mixing.
- Low and Slow is the Way to Go: When cooking the cream, maintain a medium-low heat and stir continuously. This prevents burning and ensures even thickening.
- Watch for the Magic Moment: You'll know your pastry cream is ready when it coats the back of a spoon and leaves a clear path when you run your finger through it.
- Plastic Wrap is Your Best Friend: Always cover the surface of the cream directly with plastic wrap when chilling to prevent a skin from forming.
- Chilling is Crucial: Allow at least 2 hours of refrigeration to let the cream set properly and develop its full flavor and texture.
- Customization is Key: Feel free to experiment with different plant-based milks or add a hint of other extracts like almond or coconut to personalize your cream.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg
