Preparation

1. Whisk together first 4 ingredients in a heavy 3-qt. saucepan. Cook over medium-heat, whisking constantly, 10 to 12 minutes or until thickened. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla bean paste. Cover and chill 3 hours.

*2 tsp. vanilla extract may be substituted.

Angel Food Cake

1. Whisk together first 4 ingredients in a heavy 3-qt. saucepan. Cook over medium-heat, whisking constantly, 10 to 12 minutes or until thickened. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla bean paste. Cover and chill 3 hours.

*2 tsp. vanilla extract may be substituted.

2. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 325°. Place baking cups in 2 (12-cup) muffin pans. (Do not grease.) Prepare angel food cake batter according to package directions using a paddle attachment. Stir in vanilla bean paste. Spoon batter into baking cups, filling completely full.

3. Bake at 325° on middle oven rack 20 to 25 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pans on wire racks 10 minutes.

4. Gently run a knife around edges of cupcakes to loosen. Remove from pans to wire racks, and cool completely (about 20 minutes).

5. Scoop out centers of cupcakes, leaving a 1/2-inch border on bottom and sides. Spoon or pipe Vanilla Bean Custard into centers of cupcakes. Top with strawberries. Cover and chill until ready to serve. Garnish, if desired.

*2 tsp. vanilla extract may be substituted.