Indulge your sweet tooth with our collection of creamy vanilla custard filling recipes! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, these mouthwatering treats are sure to satisfy any craving. From classic cakes and tarts to decadent donuts and crepes, we’ve got you covered.
Our 20 delicious recipes showcase the versatility of vanilla custard filling, from silky smooth textures to luscious and light variations. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for your next dinner party or a sweet surprise for your family, these creamy confections are sure to impress.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the world of vanilla custard fillings, sharing our favorite recipes and tips for achieving the perfect texture and flavor. So go ahead, get creative, and let the sweetness begin!
Classic Vanilla Custard Filling for Cakes
This timeless recipe yields a rich, creamy, and utterly delicious vanilla custard filling perfect for cakes, pastries, and other sweet treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, egg yolks, and salt.
3. Gradually add the milk, whisking until smooth.
4. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 10-12 minutes).
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
6. Strain custard into a clean bowl to remove any bubbles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Silky Vanilla Bean Custard Filling for Tarts
Elevate your tart game with this silky smooth custard filling infused with the richness of vanilla beans. Perfect for topping fresh fruits, nuts, or even caramelized bananas!
Ingredients:
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
• 1/2 cup (120g) granulated sugar
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add 1/4 cup of the warm milk mixture to the egg yolks, whisking continuously to prevent scrambling.
3. Return the saucepan to medium heat and pour in the egg yolk mixture. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 5 minutes or until the custard thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly before straining into a clean bowl through a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Rich Vanilla Custard Filling for Éclairs
Elevate your éclair game with this decadent vanilla custard filling recipe. A perfect blend of creamy and rich, this velvety filling is the perfect complement to flaky pastry.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup (200ml) whole milk
• 1/2 cup (120g) granulated sugar
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually pour the warm milk mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, for 10-12 minutes or until the custard thickens.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Light Vanilla Custard Filling for Cream Puffs
This recipe yields a light, creamy, and flavorful vanilla custard filling perfect for filling cream puffs or eclairs. With just the right amount of sweetness, this custard is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolks. Gradually add the warm cream mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 10-12 minutes).
5. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl.
6. Allow the custard to cool to room temperature before using.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Decadent Vanilla Custard Filling for Donuts
Elevate your donut game with this rich and creamy vanilla custard filling, perfect for topping or filling your favorite treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and kosher salt. Temper the egg yolks by gradually pouring the warm cream mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
3. Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly before using as desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fluffy Vanilla Custard Filling for Cupcakes
Elevate your cupcake game with this creamy, dreamy vanilla custard filling! Perfectly balanced sweetness and a velvety texture make it an irresistible addition to any cupcake.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200ml) whole milk
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves and mixture simmers.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add a little of the warm milk mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
3. Pour the egg yolk mixture into the saucepan and cook, stirring constantly, for 5-7 minutes or until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Strain the filling into a clean bowl to remove any curds.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Velvety Vanilla Custard Filling for Profiteroles
Transform your profiteroles into decadent treats with this creamy velvety vanilla custard filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and kosher salt. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm milk mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
3. Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl.
5. Let cool to room temperature before using as filling for profiteroles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smooth Vanilla Custard Filling for Napoleons
Create a creamy and delicious filling for your napoleon pastry with this simple recipe. This smooth vanilla custard is perfect for layering with puff pastry and fruit preserves.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolks. Gradually add the hot milk mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
3. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Strain the custard into a clean bowl to remove any egg solids.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Luscious Vanilla Custard Filling for Fruit Tarts
Luscious Vanilla Custard Filling for Fruit Tarts: A rich and creamy filling that perfectly complements the sweetness of fresh fruits.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and kosher salt until smooth.
3. Gradually pour the warm milk mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
4. Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Strain the custard into a clean bowl and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Vanilla Custard Filling for Danish Pastries
Elevate your Danish pastry game with this simple and delicious homemade vanilla custard filling recipe. Perfect for filling flaky croissants or sweet buns.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200ml) whole milk
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves and mixture simmers.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Temper the eggs by slowly pouring the warm milk mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
3. Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Strain the custard into a clean bowl to remove any potential lumps.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Whipped Vanilla Custard Filling for Layered Cakes
Elevate your layered cakes with this creamy and delicious whipped vanilla custard filling. Perfect for adding an extra layer of flavor and moisture to your baked creations.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until pale and fluffy.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold the whipped cream into the egg yolk mixture until well combined.
4. Add the vanilla extract and salt; fold gently to distribute evenly.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours before using.
Cooking Time: None needed! This filling is best served chilled, so refrigeration is necessary.
Baked Vanilla Custard Filling for Pies
Elevate your pie game with this creamy and velvety baked vanilla custard filling, perfect for topping or filling your favorite pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together cream, milk, and sugar until the sugar is dissolved.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and salt.
4. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm cream mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
5. Pour the custard mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chilled Vanilla Custard Filling for Trifles
A classic trifle filling that’s easy to make and perfect for topping cakes, cookies, or fruit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolks. Gradually add a little of the warm cream mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling. This is called tempering the eggs.
3. Once the eggs are tempered, pour them into the saucepan with the remaining cream mixture. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Strain the custard into a clean bowl to remove any egg solids.
5. Let the custard cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until chilled, at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Spiced Vanilla Custard Filling for Dessert Crepes
Add an extra layer of comfort to your dessert crepes with this rich and creamy spiced vanilla custard filling. The perfect blend of warm spices and sweet vanilla will leave your guests craving more.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/16 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and spices. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm cream mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 10-12 minutes).
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
6. Pour into a clean container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before using.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Eggless Vanilla Custard Filling for Vegan Treats
This creamy custard filling is a game-changer for vegan treats, perfect for cakes, pastries, and other sweet delights. Made with simple ingredients and no eggs in sight, this recipe is a must-have for any plant-based baker.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup non-dairy milk (such as almond or soy milk)
– 1/2 cup vegan butter or margarine, melted
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together non-dairy milk, melted vegan butter or margarine, and cornstarch.
2. Add sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until smooth.
3. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before using as a filling.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caramelized Vanilla Custard Filling for Dessert Bars
Elevate your dessert bars with a rich and creamy caramelized vanilla custard filling that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 3 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, milk, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer; reduce heat to low and cook for 5 minutes or until the caramel turns golden brown.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add warm caramel mixture to egg yolks, whisking constantly.
6. Pour the custard into a clean saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 10-12 minutes).
7. Remove from heat; let cool slightly before using in your dessert bar recipe.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Vanilla Custard Filling for Tropical Cakes
This creamy coconut vanilla custard filling adds a tropical twist to your favorite cakes and pastries. Perfect for warm-weather celebrations or anytime you want to transport yourself to a sunny island getaway.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 3 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and unsweetened shredded coconut.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the custard thickens slightly.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and egg yolks.
6. Strain the filling into a clean bowl and let it cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chocolate-Drizzled Vanilla Custard Filling for Parfaits
Elevate your parfaits with this creamy vanilla custard filling and a drizzle of rich chocolate. Perfect for topping fruit, whipped cream, or even wafers.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 oz high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together cream, milk, sugar, and salt.
3. Add egg yolks and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Strain custard into a clean bowl to remove any air bubbles.
6. Pour into individual serving cups or a large baking dish for chilling.
7. Drizzle with melted chocolate before serving.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (custard) + chilling time
Berry-Infused Vanilla Custard Filling for Pavlovas
Elevate your pavlova game with this sweet and tangy filling, infused with the flavors of fresh berries. This recipe yields a creamy and delicious custard perfect for topping your meringue-based treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (100g) whole milk
– 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup (30g) fresh or frozen mixed berries (such as raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and salt.
2. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture simmers.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the hot cream mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly.
5. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until the custard thickens (about 10-12 minutes).
6. Remove from heat and stir in fresh or frozen berries.
7. Strain the filling through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any seeds or pulp.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Espresso-Spiked Vanilla Custard Filling for Tiramisu
Elevate your tiramisu game with this rich and creamy espresso-spiked vanilla custard filling. Perfect for soaking ladyfingers and adding an extra layer of depth to your Italian dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon espresso powder (or 2 tablespoons strong brewed espresso)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add the hot cream mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly.
3. Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 10-12 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, espresso powder, and salt.
5. Strain the custard into a clean bowl and let it cool to room temperature before using.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the creamy goodness of vanilla custard fillings! This article brings you 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility and deliciousness of this classic dessert component. From classic cakes and tarts to decadent donuts and crepes, these silky smooth fillings are sure to elevate your baking game. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, these recipes offer something for everyone – from traditional to vegan, and even dessert bars! So go ahead, get creative, and let the creamy vanilla goodness fill your senses!
