Step 1

Whisk egg yolks, cream, sugar, brandy-based orange liqueur, and vanilla extract in a small saucepan until smooth.

Step 2

Place saucepan over medium-low heat and cook, stirring constantly with a rubber spatula scraping the bottom, until the mixture is hot and thickens slightly, and a thermometer reaches 180 degrees F (82 degrees C), 8 to 10 minutes.

Step 3

Remove from heat, strain to remove any over-cooked particles of egg, and allow cool.