This Lemon Vanilla Puff Pastry Roll is a delightful dessert featuring a crisp, flaky exterior with a creamy, zesty lemon and vanilla filling. It’s an elegant yet easy-to-make treat perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to tea parties.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Pastry:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
For the Lemon Vanilla Cream Filling:
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- 1/4 cup (50 g) sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup (120 g) cream cheese, softened
For the Glaze (Optional):
- 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- On a floured surface, roll out the puff pastry slightly to ensure even thickness.
- Spread the lemon vanilla cream filling evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
Roll the Pastry:
- Starting at one edge, roll the pastry into a tight log.
- Seal the edges with a little beaten egg.
- Place the roll on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam side down.
Brush and Bake:
- Brush the pastry with the beaten egg to ensure a golden crust.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
Prepare the Glaze (Optional):
- In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust consistency with more lemon juice or sugar as needed.
Cool and Serve:
- Let the pastry cool slightly before drizzling with glaze.
- Slice into 1-inch pieces and serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee for an elegant snack.
- Serve with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream for added flair.
- Dust with powdered sugar instead of glaze for a simpler presentation.
- Enjoy with a side of vanilla or lemon ice cream.
- Drizzle with melted white chocolate for a richer dessert.
Cooking Tips:
- Use chilled puff pastry to ensure the best puff and flakiness.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle the filling with a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Score the top of the pastry with a knife before baking for a decorative touch.
- Allow the pastry to cool before adding the glaze to avoid it melting off.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Lemon provides a boost of vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Cream cheese adds richness and calcium.
Dietary Information:
- Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs.
- Vegetarian-friendly.
Nutritional Facts (Per Slice, based on 8 slices):
- Calories: ~230
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 0g
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a low oven (300°F/150°C) to crisp up the pastry.
- Not recommended for freezing as the texture may change.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and easy with store-bought puff pastry.
- A perfect balance of creamy, zesty, and sweet flavors.
- Versatile and great for any occasion.
- Beautifully crisp and flaky texture.
Conclusion:
This Lemon Vanilla Puff Pastry Roll is a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Its combination of tangy lemon, sweet vanilla, and buttery puff pastry is simply irresistible. Try it today and make your next dessert extra special!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the roll and refrigerate it for up to 8 hours before baking. - What can I use instead of cream cheese?
Mascarpone or ricotta cheese works as a substitute. - Can I use frozen puff pastry?
Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before rolling out. - How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
Leave a border around the edges and seal well with the beaten egg. - Can I add fruit to the filling?
Yes, thinly sliced strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries make great additions. - Can I skip the glaze?
Absolutely! Dusting with powdered sugar works as a simpler topping. - What if I don’t have heavy cream?
Substitute with full-fat milk or half-and-half for a lighter version. - Can I use a different citrus flavor?
Yes, orange or lime zest and juice work wonderfully. - How do I prevent the pastry from sticking?
Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat on your baking sheet. - What if my puff pastry doesn’t puff?
Ensure the pastry is cold before baking and avoid overworking it during preparation.