This puff pastry dessert is a perfect blend of light and crispy layers filled with creamy custard and fluffy whipped cream. Combining textures and flavors, it’s a delightful treat for any occasion, sure to impress your guests or elevate your snack time.
Preparation Time
- Active time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 40 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Ingredients
- For Puff Pastry:
- ¾ cup (75 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (130 ml) water
- Pinch of salt
- 3.5 tbsp (50 g) butter
- 2 large eggs
- For Custard Cream:
- 2 egg yolks
- ¾ cup (200 ml) milk
- 3 tbsp (40 g) sugar
- 2.5 tbsp (20 g) all-purpose flour
- For Whipped Cream:
- ⅔ cup (150 ml) heavy cream
- 1 tbsp (15 g) sugar
Directions
- Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).
- In a saucepan, bring water, butter, and a pinch of salt to a boil.
- Add flour all at once, stirring vigorously until the mixture forms a smooth dough.
- Remove from heat and let the dough cool slightly.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until the dough is smooth and glossy.
- Pipe or spoon the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake at 200°C (392°F) for 10 minutes. Reduce temperature to 180°C (356°F) and bake for another 20 minutes, then lower to 160°C (320°F) for 10 more minutes.
- Make the Custard Cream:
- In a saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and flour until smooth.
- Gradually add milk while whisking constantly.
- Place over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and let cool.
- Prepare the Whipped Cream:
- In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream with sugar until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold the custard cream into the whipped cream until fully combined.
- Assemble the Pastries:
- Once the puff pastries have cooled, slice them in half horizontally.
- Fill each pastry with the custard cream mixture.
- Dust the top with powdered sugar if desired.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
- Pair with fresh berries or fruit compote for added flavor and a pop of color.
- Garnish with mint leaves for an elegant presentation.
- Add a sprinkle of crushed nuts or coconut flakes for texture.
- Serve with a side of vanilla or berry ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the dough cools slightly before adding the eggs to prevent scrambling.
- Chill the custard cream before folding it into the whipped cream for a firmer filling.
- Use a piping bag to neatly fill the pastries.
- For an extra crisp texture, let the baked pastries cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar.
- Avoid overwhipping the cream to maintain a light and airy texture.
Nutritional Benefits
- Eggs: Provide protein and essential nutrients such as choline.
- Milk: Offers calcium for strong bones and teeth.
- Flour: Supplies carbohydrates for energy.
- Cream: Adds richness and a source of fat-soluble vitamins.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-Friendly: Made with dairy and eggs but no meat products.
- Customizable: Swap dairy products with plant-based alternatives for a lactose-free version.
- Versatile: Can be adjusted to include additional flavors such as vanilla or citrus zest.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: ~280
- Protein: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sodium: ~150 mg
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store assembled pastries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Freeze unfilled pastries in an airtight bag for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven to crisp them before filling.
- Reheating: Warm pastries in a 180°C (350°F) oven for a few minutes to refresh the texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines the crispness of puff pastry with creamy, fluffy fillings.
- Simple yet elegant, perfect for both casual and formal occasions.
- Customizable with various toppings and flavor additions.
- Easy to make with common pantry ingredients.
Conclusion This Creamy Puff Pastry Dessert is a delightful treat that combines light and crispy pastry layers with creamy custard and whipped cream. Whether served at a special gathering or as an indulgent snack, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress. With its elegant presentation and rich flavors, this dessert is a must-try for pastry lovers.
10 Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use store-bought puff pastry? Yes, pre-made puff pastry can save time and works perfectly for this recipe.
- What other fillings can I use? Try pastry cream, chocolate mousse, or lemon curd for variety.
- How do I prevent the dough from deflating? Avoid opening the oven door during the initial baking phase.
- Can I make this dessert ahead of time? Prepare the components in advance and assemble just before serving for the best texture.
- What can I substitute for heavy cream? Use coconut cream or a non-dairy whipping cream alternative.
- How do I store leftover pastries? Store in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within two days.
- Can I add flavors to the custard? Yes, add vanilla extract, citrus zest, or spices like cinnamon.
- What toppings work best? Powdered sugar, chocolate drizzle, or caramel sauce are great options.
- Can I freeze assembled pastries? It’s best to freeze unfilled pastries to maintain their crispness.
- What if I don’t have a piping bag? Use a zip-top bag with a corner cut off as an alternative.