Crème Pâtissière

Directions

1. 1
   Combine first 3 ingredients in top of a double boiler; add 1/2 cup milk, and m ix well. Set aside.
2. 2
   Scald 3 cups milk; gradually add to cornstarch mixture in top of double boiler, stirring constantly. Place over boiling water and cook, stirring constantly, until mixture is thick. Remove from heat.
3. 3
   Beat egg yolks in a small mixing bowl; add remaining milk. Add yolk mixture to cornstarch mixture, stirring constantly: Place over boiling water and cook, stirring constantly, until mixture is very thick. Remove from heat; let cool, stirring occasionally to prevent a crust from forming. Stir in vanilla.