Ingredients

2 c. half-and-half

1/2 sugar

pinch salt

5 large egg yolks, chalazae removed

3 Tbs. cornstarch

4 Tbs. cold unsalted butter, cut into 4 pieces

1 1/2 tsp. vanilla

Preparation

Heat half-and-half, 6 Tbs. sugar, and salt until simmering. Whisk yolks, 2 Tbs. sugar together until creamy. Add cornstarch and beat until pale yellow and thick.

Whisk half-and-half into yolks. Return to simmering over med. heat. for 30 seconds, scraping down sides and bottom until thick and glossy.

Add butter and vanilla, melt, and chill with plastic wrap on top to prevent a skin from forming.