Classic pastry cream is a flexible ingredient in baking. You can change it up in many ways to fit different recipes and flavors. Here are some easy and fun variations you can try:

1. Flavor Options:

   • Vanilla: This is the classic flavor. You can use vanilla beans or vanilla extract.
   • Chocolate: Mix in melted chocolate. Aim for chocolate that is about 50% to 70% cocoa for a rich taste.
   • Citrus: Stir in some lemon, orange, or lime zest for a fresh and zesty flavor.

2. Changing the Texture:

   • Whipped Cream: Blend in stabilized whipped cream for a lighter, airier texture. You can use equal amounts of pastry cream and whipped cream (1:1 ratio).
   • Creamy Base: Replace some of the milk with cream to make a richer and more decadent pastry cream.

3. Extra Ingredients:

   • Liquor: A little splash of Grand Marnier or rum can make the flavor more interesting.
   • Fruit Purees: Mix in fruit purees using a 1:4 ratio with the pastry cream to make it fruity.

These ideas give you a great starting point to get creative while keeping the cream strong enough to fill pastries just right.