Can I thicken already cooked pastry cream?
Absolutely! While it is ideal to achieve the desired consistency during the cooking process, it is still possible to thicken already cooked pastry cream. With patience and the right techniques, you can salvage your pastry cream and make it thicker and creamier.
What are the tips and tricks to thicken already cooked pastry cream?
- 1. Cornstarch: One common method to thicken pastry cream is by using cornstarch. Begin by creating a slurry by combining equal parts of cornstarch and cold water. Make sure to stir it well to dissolve any lumps. Heat your already cooked pastry cream over low heat and gradually add the cornstarch slurry while continuously whisking. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- 2. Custard Powder: Another handy option is custard powder. This mixture usually contains cornstarch, vanilla flavoring, and sometimes yellow food coloring. Prepare the custard powder according to the package instructions and then gradually add it to the already cooked pastry cream. Whisk the mixture well and allow it to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.
- 3. Flour: If you don’t have cornstarch or custard powder on hand, plain all-purpose flour can also be used to thicken your pastry cream. Create a slurry by mixing a small amount of flour with cold water until you have a smooth paste. Gradually add the slurry to your already cooked pastry cream while whisking continuously. Simmer the mixture for a few minutes to cook out the floury taste and thicken the pastry cream.
- 4. Egg Yolk: If you prefer a richer and silkier texture, you can thicken your pastry cream by adding additional egg yolks. In a separate bowl, beat an egg yolk and slowly add a small amount of the already cooked pastry cream to temper the egg. Once tempered, whisk the egg mixture into the remaining pastry cream and cook it over low heat for a few minutes until it thickens.
Remember:
When thickening already cooked pastry cream using any of these methods, it’s crucial to stir or whisk continuously to prevent lumps and ensure the mixture heats evenly. Additionally, keep in mind that thickened pastry cream will continue to set as it cools, so it’s better to slightly under-thicken it during the process.
Now that you have these tips and tricks up your sleeve, you’ll be able to rescue any runny pastry cream and achieve the perfect consistency every time. Enjoy your delightful creations filled with rich and creamy pastry cream!