- **Unsalted butter** (2 tablespoons) – Enhances richness and smoothness.
- **Vanilla extract** (1 teaspoon) – Complements the lemon flavor with a hint of warmth.
- **Pinch of salt** – Balances and enhances all the flavors.
This **homemade lemon pastry cream** is perfect for filling tarts, cakes, éclairs, or donuts. It’s a versatile, **zesty dessert filling** that’s easy to make and bursting with **citrus flavor**.
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Steps
# How to Make Lemon Pastry Cream: A Step-by-Step Guide
Lemon pastry cream is a versatile and zesty filling perfect for tarts, cakes, éclairs, and more. This creamy, tangy custard is easy to make and adds a refreshing twist to your desserts. Follow these detailed steps to create a smooth and flavorful lemon pastry cream at home.
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## **Ingredients for Lemon Pastry Cream**
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **1. Prepare the Ingredients**
- Zest the lemons and juice them to ensure you have fresh lemon flavor.
- Separate the egg yolks from the whites and set aside.
### **2. Heat the Milk**
- In a medium saucepan, heat the milk and half of the sugar over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the mixture is warm but not boiling.
### **3. Whisk the Egg Yolks and Sugar**
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and the remaining sugar until pale and creamy.
- Add the cornstarch and whisk until smooth and lump-free.
### **4. Temper the Egg Mixture**
- Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously to prevent curdling.
### **5. Cook the Custard**
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula.
- The mixture will thicken as it cooks. Once it reaches a pudding-like consistency, remove it from the heat.
### **6. Add Lemon Flavor**
- Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the butter is fully melted and the ingredients are well combined.
### **7. Strain and Cool**
- Strain the pastry cream through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps or zest for a silky-smooth texture.
- Cover the cream with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before using.
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## **Tips for Perfect Lemon Pastry Cream**
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
- Avoid boiling the custard to prevent curdling.
- For a richer texture, substitute heavy cream for part of the milk.
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## **How to Use Lemon Pastry Cream**
This tangy cream is perfect for filling tarts, layering cakes, or topping scones. It pairs beautifully with fresh berries, meringue, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
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By following these steps, you’ll create a luscious lemon pastry cream that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this recipe is a must-try for adding a burst of citrus flavor to your desserts.