Creamy Custard Puff Pastry

This creamy custard puff pastry combines a rich, velvety custard cream with a soft and light dough, creating a perfect dessert or snack. The smooth custard filling, made with milk, eggs, and vanilla, is sandwiched between a buttery, airy dough. Ideal for any occasion, this treat is sure to delight everyone!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Cream:

  • 500 ml milk
  • 2 eggs
  • 100 g sugar
  • 45 g corn starch
  • A pinch of vanilla
  • 50 g butter

For the Dough:

  • 4 eggs
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 30 g butter
  • 180 g wheat flour
  • 360 ml milk

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Cream:
    • In a saucepan, combine the milk, eggs, sugar, and corn starch.
    • Stir constantly over medium heat until the mixture thickens.
    • Once thickened, add a pinch of vanilla and butter, mixing until smooth and creamy.
    • Set aside to cool.
  2. Prepare the Dough:
    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, sugar, and melted butter.
    • Gradually add the flour and milk, mixing until smooth and well-combined.
    • Preheat the oven to 220°C (428°F).
  3. Assemble and Bake:
    • Pour the dough mixture into a baking dish and spread it out evenly.
    • Bake at 220°C for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 180°C (356°F) and bake for another 15 minutes, or until golden and puffed.
  4. Serve:
    • Once baked, allow the pastry to cool for a few minutes before filling it with the cooled custard cream.
    • Slice and serve. Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions:

  • Top with powdered sugar or fresh berries for added sweetness.
  • Serve with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful snack.
  • Add whipped cream for extra indulgence.
  • Try drizzling with chocolate sauce for a decadent touch.
  • For a more festive feel, garnish with mint leaves.

Cooking Tips:

  • Be sure to whisk the cream constantly while it’s cooking to avoid lumps.
  • You can prepare the cream ahead of time and refrigerate it.
  • If you prefer a firmer custard, you can increase the amount of cornstarch slightly.
  • Make sure the dough is spread evenly to ensure even baking.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • The custard is rich in protein from the eggs and dairy, making it filling and nutritious.
  • The butter adds a source of healthy fats.
  • Milk provides calcium, essential for strong bones.
  • This dessert can be a great source of energy with moderate sugar content.

Dietary Information:

  • This recipe contains dairy and eggs, making it unsuitable for those with dairy or egg allergies.
  • It is not gluten-free due to the use of wheat flour.

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

  • Calories: 250-300 kcal (depending on portion size)
  • Protein: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Fiber: 1g

Storage:

  • Store any leftover pastry in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • For longer storage, refrigerate and reheat before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • The combination of smooth, creamy custard and a light, buttery dough is irresistible.
  • It’s a quick and easy dessert that feels indulgent yet simple to prepare.
  • Perfect for family gatherings, tea parties, or a sweet snack.
  • You can customize it by adding your favorite fruits or toppings.

Conclusion:
This creamy custard puff pastry is a delicious and comforting treat that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. The combination of a soft, light dough and velvety custard makes each bite melt in your mouth. Whether for dessert or a snack, this recipe is both simple and delightful. Don’t forget to try it and share it with your loved ones!

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. Can I make this recipe without eggs?
    • Unfortunately, eggs are essential for both the custard and dough in this recipe.
  2. Can I use a store-bought puff pastry?
    • Yes, if you’re short on time, you can substitute store-bought puff pastry for the dough.
  3. Can I add fruits to the custard?
    • Yes, you can fold in fresh fruits like berries or peaches for added flavor.
  4. How do I store leftover pastry?
    • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer storage.
  5. Can I freeze the pastry?
    • It’s best to freeze the dough separately before baking. Once baked, it may lose its texture after freezing.
  6. Can I use non-dairy milk for the custard?
    • Yes, you can substitute with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
  7. How can I make the custard firmer?
    • Increase the amount of cornstarch slightly, but don’t overdo it as it may affect the texture.
  8. Can I make this ahead of time?
    • Yes, you can prepare the custard and dough ahead of time. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.
  9. Can I make this gluten-free?
    • Substitute the wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
  10. How can I make the pastry more colorful?
  • Add a few drops of food coloring to the dough or top with colorful fruits before serving.