- Sugar (1/2 cup for milk, 1/2 cup for pastry cream)
- Cornstarch (2 tablespoons)
- All-purpose flour (1 tablespoon) [for dusting]
- Eggs (3 large eggs, separated)
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon)
- Salt (a pinch)
- Caramel Sauce (as desired, for topping or mixing in)
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### Caramel Pastry Cream Baked Goods: A Sweet Treat Recipe
Looking to impress your guests or simply indulge in a delicious homemade dessert? This caramel pastry cream baked goods recipe will guide you through creating a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of caramel and the silky smoothness of pastry cream. Follow these steps for a perfect result every time.
#### Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (for caramel)
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 6 egg yolks, lightly beaten
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
#### Equipment:
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
- Small bowl
- Whisk
- Baking pan (9x5-inch loaf pan or similar)
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
**1. Make the Caramel:**
- In a medium saucepan, combine 3/4 cup of sugar and 1 tablespoon water.
- Place over medium-high heat and let it cook until the sugar dissolves completely, turning a deep amber color.
- Remove from heat immediately. Carefully pour in 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, stirring gently to incorporate. The mixture will bubble vigorously; be cautious as it may spit.
**2. Prepare the Pastry Cream:**
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, milk, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Slowly stir this mixture into the caramel slowly while continuously stirring with a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula to avoid curdling the eggs.
**3. Cook the Mixture:**
- Place the saucepan back on medium-low heat.
- Stir constantly until the mixture thickens, which should take about 5-7 minutes. The caramel will continue to cook down and darken as it mixes with the milk, creating a rich, golden-brown color.
**4. Set Aside the Pastry Cream:**
- Once cooked, remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into another clean bowl to remove any lumps or bits of caramel.
**5. Prepare Your Baking Pan:**
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and lightly flour your baking pan with butter and cornstarch for best results.
**6. Pour and Bake the Pastry Cream:**
- Carefully pour the caramel pastry cream into your prepared pan.
- Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
**7. Cool and Serve:**
- Allow to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
- This caramel pastry cream can also be used as a filling between layers of cake, or poured over desserts for an extra touch of sweetness.
### Tips for Perfect Results:
- Ensure your caramel is cooked properly; overcooking can make it bitter, while undercooking won’t yield the desired golden-brown color.
- For best flavor and texture, use fresh ingredients. Caramel will darken more quickly if made with older milk or sugar.
- Always be careful when handling hot caramel as it can be dangerous.