Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Special equipment needed:
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Serving glasses or bowls
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, 1/4 cup of sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries have released their juices and the mixture has thickened, about 10 minutes.
2. Strain the strawberry mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a bowl, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids and set the strawberry syrup aside.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth.
4. In another medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, remaining 1/4 cup of sugar, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
5. Gradually whisk in the cornstarch mixture, stirring constantly, and continue to cook until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5 minutes.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until smooth. Gradually whisk in about 1/2 cup of the hot cream mixture, whisking constantly, to temper the yolks.
7. Pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan with the remaining cream mixture and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5 minutes.
8. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the strawberry syrup until well combined.
9. Divide the mixture among serving glasses or bowls and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until set.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
- Chill time: 2 hours
Temperature:
- Medium heat for cooking the strawberries and cream mixture
- Low heat for cooking the egg yolk mixture
Serving size:
- Makes 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 435
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Protein: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 31g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Fresh strawberries can be substituted with frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw them before using.
- Cornstarch can be substituted with tapioca starch or arrowroot powder.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or whole milk, but the resulting texture may be thinner.
Variations:
- Substitute the strawberries with other fresh berries, such as raspberries or blueberries.
- Add a splash of liqueur, such as Grand Marnier or Chambord, to the strawberry syrup for added flavor.
- Top the chilled Herrencreme with whipped cream and fresh berries before serving.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to strain the strawberry mixture to remove any seeds or solids for a smooth texture.
- Whisk the cornstarch mixture well to prevent lumps from forming in the cream mixture.
- Temper the egg yolks slowly to prevent them from curdling in the hot cream mixture.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover Herrencreme in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Herrencreme is best served chilled, so there is no need to reheat it.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the Herrencreme in clear glass bowls or glasses to show off the layers of creamy custard and bright strawberry syrup.
- Top each serving with a fresh strawberry or a dollop of whipped cream for added visual appeal.
Garnishes:
- Fresh berries, such as sliced strawberries or raspberries
- Whipped cream
- Mint leaves
Pairings:
- Serve the Herrencreme with a glass of sparkling wine or rosé for a light and refreshing dessert.
Suggested side dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Shortbread cookies
- Vanilla wafers
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the custard mixture is too thin, continue to cook it over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens to the desired consistency.
- If the custard mixture is too thick, whisk in a little bit of milk or cream to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the egg yolks thoroughly to prevent any risk of foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Herrencreme is a traditional German dessert that dates back to the 19th century. It is a custard-based dessert that is typically flavored with rum or other liqueurs.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, sweet, and fruity
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the Herrencreme chilled as a light and refreshing dessert after a heavy meal.
Related Categories
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Region: German
Taste: Sweet, Creamy, Fruity, Tangy, Refreshing