Pastry Cream (Eggless)

Directions

1. 1
   Mix first 4 ingredients in a large pan until well blended and sugar is almost dissolved.
2. 2
   Place pan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until it comes to the boil.
3. 3
   Continue to simmer, stirring constantly while simmering, until very thick (about 5- 10 minutes).
4. 4
   Remove from heat and add vanilla (or your choice of flavoring).
5. 5
   Pour mixture into bowl and cover surface directly with waxed paper or plastic wrap to prevent skin from forming.
6. 6
   Refrigerate several hours to overnight.
7. 7
   To use pastry cream to fill[recipe=40291]cannoli shells[/recipe]: Chop 1 regular size Hershey chocolate bar and add bits to cooled (pastry cream) mixture.
8. 8
   Fill cannoli shells by piping mixture into shell using a pastry bag, or use a long-handled iced tea spoon.
9. 9
   Dip ends of filled cannoli into toasted, sliced or crushed almonds or crushed pistachio nuts or finely minced chocolate bits.
10. 10
    Sprinkle top of shells lightly with powdered sugar (recipe will fill about 16 shells depending on their size).