Creamy Vanilla Filling (Printable)
Velvety vanilla filling with a luscious texture ideal for cakes, pastries, and tarts.
# What You'll Need:
→ Dairy
01 - 1 cup whole milk
02 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
03 - 4 oz cream cheese, softened
→ Sweeteners
04 - 1/3 cup granulated sugar
→ Eggs
05 - 2 large egg yolks
→ Flavorings
06 - 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
→ Thickeners
07 - 2 tbsp cornstarch
→ Salt
08 - 1/8 tsp fine sea salt
# Directions:
01 - In a medium saucepan, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream, and half of the granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat until steaming without boiling.
02 - In a mixing bowl, whisk egg yolks, remaining sugar, cornstarch, and fine sea salt until smooth and pale.
03 - Gradually add about one-third of the hot milk mixture to the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
04 - Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture.
05 - Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
06 - Remove from heat. Whisk in the softened cream cheese and pure vanilla extract until fully smooth and blended.
07 - Transfer the mixture to a clean bowl. Cover with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface to avoid skin formation. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until fully chilled and set. Stir before use.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It feels like a secret indulgence you can whip up in no time, perfect when inspiration strikes unexpectedly
- The blend of cream cheese and vanilla creates a richness that never feels too heavy, making it a family favorite that keeps coming back
02 -
- Tempering the egg yolks slowly prevents scrambling, which is the key to that flawless texture
- Adding the cream cheese off the heat avoids separating and keeps the filling silky
03 -
- Whisk constantly during cooking to avoid lumps and ensure creaminess
- Using pure vanilla extract rather than imitation makes a world of difference in flavor depth