Pastry cream

Source: Corporate Image Dining Services (Stamford, Conn.)

This simple pastry cream is a great base for a variety of desserts, including Strawberry Shortcake.

Steps

1. In sauce pot, heat first two ingredients to a light rolling boil, stirring continuously to keep from burning.
2. In separate stainless steel bowl, add cornstarch to 5 ounces of milk and mix until well blended. Add sugar, eggs and vanilla extract.
3. When milk and sugar mixture begins to boil, quickly whisk in cornstarch mixture and continue to whisk. (Mixture will automatically thicken.)
4. As mixture quickly comes to a boil, remove from heat and pour into stainless steel bowl or pan. Place bowl or pan in ice water bath and occasionally stir to cool cream.

To make Strawberry Shortcakes

1. Layer 2 ounces pastry cream with 2 sliced strawberries, 4 ounces cubed angel food cake, and 1 ounce whipped topping. Serve immediately.