*Note: This recipe is designed to be quick and easy without the need for baking or cooking. Use these ingredients to create a creamy filling perfect for pies, tarts, or as a standalone dessert.*
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Steps
### Cheater No Cook Pastry Cream Recipe
Pastry cream is an essential component in many classic French desserts such as tarte tatin or eclairs. While traditionally it requires hours of simmering to get that perfect texture, there's a quicker method: no cook pastry cream! Here’s how you can make it without the fuss.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt
#### Step-by-Step Instructions:
**Preparation:**
1. **Gather Ingredients**: Ensure all your ingredients are ready before you start.
2. **Heat the Milk**: In a medium saucepan, heat the milk just until it reaches a simmer. Avoid boiling.
**Mixing Dry Ingredients:**
3. **Combine Egg Yolks and Cornstarch**: Whisk together the egg yolks and cornstarch in a bowl to prevent lumps.
4. **Add Sugar**: Stir in 1/2 cup of sugar, making sure it's fully incorporated into the yolk mixture.
**Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients:**
5. **Temper the Eggs with Milk**: Gradually pour some of the heated milk over the egg-yolk mixture while continuously whisking to temper the eggs.
6. **Return to Saucepan**: Pour the tempered mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk. Stir well.
**Cooking the Cream:**
7. **Simmer on Low Heat**: Place the saucepan on low heat and stir constantly until the mixture thickens slightly. This should only take a few minutes.
8. **Add Vanilla (Optional)**: Once it starts to thicken, add vanilla extract for added flavor.
**Cooling Down:**
9. **Remove from Heat**: Turn off the heat immediately once you see the cream has thickened sufficiently.
10. **Strain and Cool**: Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps or egg particles. Transfer it into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap directly touching the surface to prevent a skin from forming, then refrigerate.
**Storage:**
11. **Store in Refrigerator**: Store your no cook pastry cream in an airtight container and use within 3-5 days for best texture.
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By following these detailed steps, you can enjoy the creamy texture of traditional pastry cream in just minutes. Perfect for last-minute baking or when you're short on time!