creamy vanilla

Creamy Vanilla Dessert

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Chill Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped (or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract)
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 large egg yolks
• Whipped cream, for garnish (optional)
• Fresh berries, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preparation:
   • In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, and half of the sugar.
   • Add the scraped vanilla bean and seeds (or vanilla extract) to the milk mixture.
2. Heating the Milk:
   • Heat the milk mixture over medium heat until it begins to steam, but do not let it boil.
   • Remove from heat and let it sit for 10 minutes to infuse the vanilla flavor.
3. Making the Custard:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining sugar, cornstarch, salt, and egg yolks until smooth and pale in color.
   • Gradually pour the warm milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling.
4. Cooking the Custard:
   • Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes).
   • Remove from heat and strain the custard through a fine mesh sieve to remove any lumps and the vanilla bean.
5. Chilling:
   • Pour the custard into individual serving dishes or a large bowl.
   • Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming.
   • Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until set.
6. Serving:
   • Before serving, top with whipped cream and fresh berries, if desired.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 250
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Cholesterol: 170mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 20g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 18g
• Protein: 4g

Intensity:

• Preparation Intensity: Medium
• Cooking Intensity: Medium
• Overall Intensity: Medium

Enjoy this rich and creamy vanilla dessert, perfect for a delightful and elegant end to any meal!