These peach cream puffs made with puff pastry are a delightful dessert that combines the flaky, buttery layers of pastry with a rich, smooth cream filling and sweet, juicy peaches. The cream filling, made with egg, sugar, and cornstarch, is cooked to perfection, then topped with slices of peaches from syrup to create a flavorful, light dessert. The puff pastry adds a delightful crunch and an airiness to the entire treat, making it a perfect balance of texture and taste. This dessert is quick to prepare, especially when you use store-bought puff pastry, and it’s sure to impress guests at any gathering or serve as a sweet treat for any time of the day.
Preparation Time
- Total preparation and cooking time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Cream Filling:
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 8 grams vanilla sugar
- 300 ml milk
- 1 teaspoon butter
For the Puff Pastry:
- Puff pastry sheets (store-bought or homemade)
For the Topping:
- Peaches in syrup, sliced
Directions
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Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven according to the temperature specified on the puff pastry package.
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Prepare the Cream Filling:
- In a saucepan, whisk together the egg, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla sugar.
- Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously to avoid any lumps from forming.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens into a creamy consistency. This process will take about 5-7 minutes.
- Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter until it’s fully melted and incorporated into the cream.
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Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface.
- Cut the pastry sheets into squares, each large enough to form a small pouch for the filling.
- Spoon a generous amount of the cream filling onto the center of each puff pastry square.
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Assemble the Pouches:
- Place a slice of peach from the syrup on top of the cream filling.
- Fold the corners of the puff pastry squares over the peaches, creating a little pouch. Pinch the edges to seal the pastry and ensure the filling stays inside while baking.
- Arrange the prepared pouches on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
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Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and crisp. The cream filling should be set and the peaches warm.
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Serve:
- Remove from the oven and allow the pastries to cool slightly before serving.
- Enjoy these peach cream puffs warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the peach cream puffs with a light dusting of powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a light afternoon treat.
- Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing and balanced dessert.
Cooking Tips
- If you want a richer cream filling, you can substitute half of the milk with heavy cream for a smoother, more decadent filling.
- Be sure not to overfill the puff pastry squares, as it may cause them to burst open while baking.
- You can use any canned or fresh peaches for this recipe. If using fresh peaches, be sure to peel and slice them thinly.
Nutritional Benefits
- Eggs: Rich in protein and essential nutrients like vitamin B12 and choline, eggs help support muscle repair and brain function.
- Milk: Provides calcium for healthy bones and teeth, as well as protein for muscle building.
- Peaches: A great source of vitamins A and C, peaches help support skin health and boost immunity.
- Puff Pastry: While puff pastry is rich in fats, it provides a satisfying and crispy texture that pairs well with the lighter cream filling.
Dietary Information
- This recipe is not gluten-free, but you can use gluten-free puff pastry if desired.
- It contains dairy and eggs, so it is not vegan but can be adapted using non-dairy substitutes for the cream filling.
Storage
- These peach cream puffs are best enjoyed fresh, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat them in a warm oven for a few minutes to restore the crispness of the pastry before serving.
Conclusion
These peach cream puffs with puff pastry are the perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and flaky goodness. They’re simple to prepare, yet elegant enough to impress at any gathering. The smooth cream filling combined with the sweetness of peaches and the crispiness of the puff pastry makes for a delightful dessert that will leave everyone asking for more. Whether served as a light snack or a sweet end to a meal, these peach cream puffs are sure to become a beloved recipe in your kitchen.
5 Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use a different type of fruit instead of peaches? Yes! You can substitute the peaches with any fruit of your choice, such as apples, berries, or pears.
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Can I make these puffs ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the cream filling and assemble the puffs ahead of time. Keep them refrigerated and bake them just before serving.
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Can I freeze the assembled puffs? Yes, you can freeze the unbaked puffs for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, simply place them in the oven directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
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Can I use homemade puff pastry instead of store-bought? Absolutely! Homemade puff pastry will work just as well and can add an extra level of richness to the dish.
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Can I make this recipe with a different type of filling? Yes! You can fill the puff pastry with other fillings, such as custard, chocolate ganache, or even savory fillings like cheese and herbs.