These Peach Cream Puffs are a delightful treat, combining the richness of a homemade vanilla custard with the sweetness of peaches, all wrapped in golden, flaky puff pastry. Perfect for dessert or a special snack, they are sure to impress!
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 8g vanilla sugar (approximately 1 tablespoon)
- 300ml milk
- 1 teaspoon butter
- Puff pastry sheets
- Peaches in syrup
Instructions:
Prepare the Custard:
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a saucepan, whisk together the egg, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla sugar until well combined.
- Add Milk: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
- Cook the Custard: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens into a custard-like consistency.
- Add Butter: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter until melted and fully incorporated.
- Cool the Custard: Set the custard aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the puff pastry package, usually around 200°C (400°F).
- Cut the Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheets and cut them into squares, roughly 10×10 cm (4×4 inches) in size.
- Assemble the Puffs: Place a spoonful of the cooled custard mixture onto the center of each puff pastry square.
- Add Peaches: Top the custard with a slice of peach from the syrup.
- Form the Pouches: Fold the corners of the puff pastry squares over the peaches to create a pouch, pinching the corners together to seal.
Bake the Pastries:
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the prepared pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and golden brown.
- Cool: Remove the pastries from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Dessert: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Afternoon Tea: Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful snack.
- Brunch: Include as part of a brunch spread with fresh fruits and pastries.
Cooking Tips:
- Prevent Soggy Pastry: Ensure the custard is not too runny to prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy.
- Customize the Filling: Try different fruits like apricots or apples in place of peaches for variety.
- Seal the Pastry: Make sure to seal the edges of the puff pastry well to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Eggs: Provide protein and essential nutrients like vitamin B12 and choline.
- Peaches: Rich in vitamins A and C, and add natural sweetness to the dessert.
- Milk: Adds calcium and protein, contributing to bone health.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the milk and butter with plant-based alternatives for a dairy-free version.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store leftover pastries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
- Freeze: Unbaked pastries can be frozen and baked directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy to Make: With ready-made puff pastry, these pastries come together quickly and effortlessly.
- Delicious Combination: The blend of creamy custard, sweet peaches, and flaky pastry creates a delightful treat.
- Versatile: Great for dessert, a special snack, or a sweet addition to brunch.
Conclusion:
These Peach Cream Puffs are a simple yet elegant dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The flaky puff pastry encases a rich vanilla custard and sweet peach slice, making each bite a delightful experience. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a good pastry!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use fresh peaches instead of canned?
- Yes, you can use fresh peaches. Just slice them thinly and, if desired, lightly cook them in a bit of sugar syrup before using.
- Can I make the custard ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the custard up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Can I use other fruits?
- Absolutely! This recipe works well with various fruits like apricots, apples, or berries.
- What if my custard is too thick?
- If the custard becomes too thick, you can whisk in a little more milk to achieve the desired consistency.
- How do I prevent the puff pastry from getting soggy?
- Ensure the custard is not overly runny and that the puff pastry is well-sealed to prevent leaks during baking.
- Can I freeze the assembled pastries before baking?
- Yes, you can freeze the pastries before baking. Bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- What can I do with leftover puff pastry?
- Leftover puff pastry can be cut into strips, sprinkled with sugar or cheese, and baked into quick snacks.
- Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
- Yes, substitute the milk and butter with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and vegan butter.
- Do I need to thaw the puff pastry before use?
- Yes, puff pastry should be thawed according to package instructions before using to ensure it rolls out easily and bakes evenly.
- Can I add spices to the custard?
- Absolutely! A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add extra flavor to the custard