19 Creamy Egg Yolk Recipes for Gourmet Delights
There are few ingredients as versatile and delicious as egg yolks. When cooked with cream, butter, and a pinch of salt, they can elevate a dish from ordinary to extraordinary. From classic sauces to decadent desserts, the possibilities are endless when it comes to incorporating creamy egg yolks into your cooking repertoire. In this article, we’ll explore 19 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the richness and complexity that only egg yolks can provide.
Classic Hollandaise Sauce
Classic Hollandaise Sauce Recipe
A rich and creamy emulsion sauce, Hollandaise is a quintessential accompaniment to eggs Benedict, asparagus, and steamed fish.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a heatproof bowl, whisk together egg yolks and lemon juice until smooth.
2. Set the bowl over a pot of simmering water (make sure the bottom of the bowl is not touching the water).
3. Slowly melt the butter in the microwave or in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Slowly pour the melted butter into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
5. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens and emulsifies, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and whisk in warm water.
7. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to a week.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Silky Egg Yolk Carbonara
A classic Italian dish gets a silky twist with this recipe, featuring creamy egg yolks and perfectly cooked spaghetti.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together egg yolks and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
3. Add heavy cream and whisk until combined.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the bowl, tossing to coat with egg yolk mixture.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Golden Custard Tart
A classic French dessert that’s sure to impress, this Golden Custard Tart is a rich and creamy treat that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence. With its golden-hued filling and flaky pastry crust, it’s a show-stopping centerpiece for any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
4. Arrange the sugar mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the sugar mixture.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until pastry is golden brown.
7. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and heavy cream until smooth.
8. Pour custard filling into baked tart shell and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until filling is set.
9. Remove from oven and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Rich Egg Yolk Ice Cream
Rich Egg Yolk Ice Cream Recipe
This recipe yields a creamy and rich ice cream with an intense egg yolk flavor, perfect for those who love the deep, buttery taste of egg yolks. With only 5 ingredients, this dessert is surprisingly simple to make.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until pale and smooth.
2. Add the heavy cream and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and reaches 170°F (77°C).
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Churning Time: 20-30 minutes (depending on machine)
Mykonos-Style Avgolemono Soup
Avgolemono is a classic Greek soup originating from the island of Mykonos, typically served as a comforting and refreshing meal. This recipe combines chicken broth with a rich lemony egg sauce, making it a perfect dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a simmer over medium heat.
2. While waiting for the broth to warm up, whisk together the eggs, lemon juice, and salt in a separate bowl until smooth.
3. Gradually pour the egg mixture into the simmering broth while whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
4. Continue whisking until the soup thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the olive oil.
6. Serve hot or warm, garnished with chopped parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Luxurious Creme Brulee
Luxurious Crème Brûlée Recipe
This classic French dessert gets a luxurious twist with rich cream, velvety texture, and a caramelized sugar crust. A perfect treat for special occasions or as a decadent indulgence any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and salt.
3. Add heavy cream, vanilla extract, and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens slightly, about 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Pour into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
8. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar on top of each ramekin.
9. Caramelize sugar with a kitchen torch or under the broiler for 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Egg Yolk Ravioli with Brown Butter
Savor the rich flavors of homemade ravioli filled with creamy egg yolk and served with a nutty brown butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs, separated (1 for egg wash, 1 for filling)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Filling:
+ 3 large egg yolks
+ 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
+ Salt to taste
– Brown Butter Sauce:
+ 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
+ 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Add melted butter and mix until dough forms.
3. Knead for 5 minutes, then rest for 30 minutes.
4. Roll out dough to 1/16 inch thickness.
5. Cut circles using a round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
6. Place a small spoonful of egg yolk filling in center of each circle.
7. Fold and press edges together to seal ravioli.
8. Cook in boiling, salted water for 3-4 minutes, or until floats.
9. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat.
10. Add heavy cream; whisk until brown and nutty.
11. Serve cooked ravioli with Brown Butter Sauce and Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Decadent Chocolate Souffle
Decadent Chocolate Souffle Recipe
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and indulgent chocolate soufflé that will satisfy any sweet tooth. This classic French dessert is sure to impress at your next dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), broken into small pieces
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the ramekins
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter six 6-ounce ramekins and coat with granulated sugar.
2. Melt chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together egg yolks, flour, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually pour melted chocolate into egg yolk mixture, whisking until smooth.
5. Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Fold into chocolate mixture until no white streaks remain.
6. Pour batter into prepared ramekins and bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and set.
7. Serve immediately, dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Portuguese Egg Yolk Pudding
A classic Portuguese dessert, this creamy pudding is a rich and indulgent treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks and sugar until smooth.
2. Add the heavy cream, salt, and vanilla extract; whisk until well combined.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 10-12 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the pudding to set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings
French Lemon Curd
French Lemon Curd Recipe
Summary: This classic French dessert is a tangy and sweet spread perfect for topping toast, scones, or using as a cake filling.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (110g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 cup (60ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, egg yolks, and lemon juice until well combined.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the melted butter and grated lemon zest.
4. Strain the curd through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any egg solids.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Homemade Egg Yolk Pasta
Create a decadent and flavorful pasta dish with the simplicity of homemade egg yolk pasta. This recipe yields a vibrant yellow pasta that’s infused with the richness of egg yolks, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine egg yolks and a pinch of salt.
2. Gradually add in the flour, whisking until smooth and free of lumps.
3. If necessary, add water to achieve a dough-like consistency.
4. Knead the mixture on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and pliable.
5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
6. Roll out the pasta to your desired thickness (about 1/16 inch).
7. Cook the pasta in boiling salted water for 3-5 minutes or until al dente. Drain and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Fluffy Egg Yolk Sponge Cake
Elevate your baking game with this classic French sponge cake recipe that yields a tender, moist, and utterly delicious treat. With its delicate crumb and rich egg yolk flavor, it’s perfect for serving on its own or using as a base for creative desserts.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk, at room temperature
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 6-inch (15cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, flour, and salt until smooth.
3. Add milk and whisk until fully incorporated.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and set.
5. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Enjoy your light and airy Fluffy Egg Yolk Sponge Cake!
Buttery Hollandaise Eggs Benedict
Elevate your breakfast game with this classic dish featuring poached eggs, toasted English muffins, and a rich hollandaise sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 English muffins, toasted
– 4 slices Canadian bacon or ham
Instructions:
1. Poach eggs by cracking them into a pot of simmering water. Cook for 3-4 minutes, then remove with a slotted spoon.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add lemon juice, vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
3. Toast English muffins and cook Canadian bacon or ham according to package instructions.
4. Assemble by placing toasted muffins on plates, topping with poached eggs, Canadian bacon or ham, and drizzling with hollandaise sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Egg Yolk Mayonnaise
Egg yolk mayonnaise is a versatile condiment that can elevate the flavor of sandwiches, salads, and dips. This recipe yields a rich and creamy spread with a deep yellow color.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup neutral-tasting oil (such as canola or grapeseed)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and lemon juice until smooth.
2. Slowly pour the oil into the bowl while continuously whisking the mixture.
3. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens and emulsifies, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Total time: 10-12 minutes
– Whisking time: 5-7 minutes
Golden Zabaglione Dessert
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and creamy golden zabaglione, a classic Italian treat that’s sure to impress. This simple yet elegant dessert is perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks and sugar until well combined.
2. Add heavy cream, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until smooth.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and turns golden brown (about 10-12 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Strain into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Egg Yolk and Herb-infused Aioli
This creamy aioli is elevated by the richness of egg yolks and the brightness of fresh herbs, perfect for dipping crudités or spreading on sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (120ml) mayonnaise
– 2 large egg yolks
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolks until smooth.
2. Add the mayonnaise, parsley, chives, and lemon juice to the egg yolks. Whisk until fully incorporated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes (prep), refrigeration time: 30 minutes
Vanilla Pastry Cream
A classic French dessert filling, this Vanilla Pastry Cream is a versatile and delicious addition to cakes, pastries, and other sweet treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and softened butter until well combined.
2. Gradually add in the granulated sugar, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
3. Add in the vanilla extract and whisk until fully incorporated.
4. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens slightly and becomes smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time:
– 10-15 minutes at room temperature
– 5-7 minutes if refrigerated for 30 minutes before whipping
Whiskey Egg Yolk Cocktail
Elevate your cocktail game with this rich and creamy whiskey egg yolk drink. The perfect blend of sweet, savory, and boozy.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 ounces bourbon or whiskey
• 1/2 ounce honey syrup (1:1 honey and water)
• 1/4 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg yolk
• Ice
• Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine whiskey, honey syrup, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
2. Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds.
3. Crack the egg yolk into the shaker and continue shaking until well combined and frothy (about 20-25 seconds).
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: None required
Brioche Bread with Egg Yolk Glaze
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this buttery, flaky brioche bread, topped with a silky egg yolk glaze. Perfect for sandwiching eggs, cheese, or charcuterie.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 egg yolks
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine yeast and warm milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Whisk in melted butter and yeast mixture.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until shaggy dough forms.
5. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
6. Shape into a round or oblong loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. While bread is still warm, glaze with egg yolks mixed with a pinch of salt and confectioners’ sugar (if using).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Indulge your taste buds with these 19 creamy egg yolk recipes, perfect for gourmet delights. From classic Hollandaise sauce to rich egg yolk ice cream and decadent chocolate soufflé, discover a world of culinary possibilities. These mouthwatering dishes feature the star ingredient – egg yolks – in all their golden glory. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or an amateur cook, these recipes will inspire your next culinary adventure.