Ingredients

For the Pastries:

• 400 g (14 oz) puff pastry
• 1 egg
• 30 g (1.1 oz) almond flakes

For the Cream:

• 200 ml (6.8 fl oz) whipping cream
• 60 g (2.1 oz) vanilla flavored pudding powder
• 50 g (1.8 oz) sugar
• 300 ml (10 fl oz) milk
• 120 g (4.2 oz) Nutella
• 150 g (5.3 oz) strawberries

For the Drink:

• 20 g (0.7 oz) instant coffee
• 100 ml (3.4 fl oz) hot water
• 2 bananas
• 150 ml (5.1 fl oz) milk
• 30 ml (1 fl oz) whipping cream
• 20 g (0.7 oz) powdered sugar
• 5 ml (0.2 fl oz) vanilla essence
• 20 g (0.7 oz) almonds, chopped

Instructions

For the Pastries:

1. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
   • Roll out the 400 g of puff pastry on a floured surface.
   • Cut the pastry into your desired shapes or sizes.
2. Egg Wash:
   • Beat 1 egg in a small bowl.
   • Brush the top of the puff pastry with the beaten egg.
3. Add Almond Flakes:
   • Sprinkle 30 g of almond flakes on top of the pastry.
4. Bake:
   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
   • Bake the puff pastry for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.

For the Cream:

1. Prepare Pudding:
   • In a pot, combine 60 g of vanilla flavored pudding powder, 50 g of sugar, and 300 ml of milk.
   • Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens.
   • Let it cool to room temperature.
2. Whip the Cream:
   • Whip 200 ml of whipping cream until it forms stiff peaks.
3. Combine:
   • Gently fold the cooled pudding into the whipped cream.
   • Add 120 g of Nutella and mix until well combined.
4. Prepare Strawberries:
   • Wash and slice 150 g of strawberries.
5. Assemble the Pastries:
   • Once the pastries are baked and cooled, cut them open and fill them with the Nutella cream.
   • Add sliced strawberries on top.

For the Drink:

1. Prepare Coffee:
   • Dissolve 20 g of instant coffee in 100 ml of hot water.
2. Blend Bananas:
   • In a blender, combine 2 bananas, 150 ml of milk, 30 ml of whipping cream, 20 g of powdered sugar, and 5 ml of vanilla essence.
   • Blend until smooth.
3. Combine and Serve:
   • Pour the banana mixture into glasses.
   • Add the prepared coffee mixture and stir.
   • Top with 20 g of chopped almonds.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the filled puff pastries on a dessert plate with a side of fresh strawberries.
• Enjoy the coffee-banana drink as a refreshing complement to the pastries.

Cooking Tips

• Make sure to let the pudding cool completely before folding it into the whipped cream to prevent the cream from deflating.
• Use fresh, ripe bananas for the best flavor in the drink.

Nutritional Benefits

• Strawberries: Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.
• Bananas: Provide potassium and natural sweetness.
• Almonds: A good source of healthy fats and protein.

Dietary Information

• Vegetarian: Yes
• Nut-Free Option: Omit the almond flakes and almonds in the drink.

Storage

• Pastries: Store any leftover pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Drink: Serve the drink immediately for the best taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Combination: The pairing of flaky pastry with rich Nutella cream and fresh strawberries is irresistible.
• Refreshing Drink: The coffee-banana drink adds a unique twist to your usual beverages.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and steps make this recipe accessible for any level of baker.

Conclusion

These Puff Pastries with Nutella Cream and Coffee-Banana Drink are a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The rich, creamy filling and the crispy pastry create a wonderful texture contrast, while the refreshing drink complements the sweetness perfectly. Enjoy this indulgent and satisfying dessert!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use another type of fruit instead of strawberries?
   • Yes, you can use raspberries, blueberries, or sliced bananas.
2. Can I make the pastries ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the pastries a day in advance and fill them just before serving.
3. What if I don’t have vanilla pudding powder?
   • You can use custard powder or make a simple vanilla pastry cream as a substitute.
4. Can I use a different type of pastry?
   • Yes, you can use phyllo dough or homemade pastry if preferred.
5. How can I make the drink dairy-free?
   • Substitute the milk and cream with almond milk or another plant-based alternative.
6. Can I serve the pastries warm?
   • Yes, you can warm the pastries slightly before filling, but let them cool enough so the cream doesn’t melt.
7. What’s the best way to store leftover cream filling?
   • Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
8. Can I add chocolate chips to the cream filling?
   • Yes, folding in some mini chocolate chips would add a nice texture.
9. Can I make the drink without coffee?
   • Yes, you can omit the coffee for a pure banana smoothie, or add a different flavor like cocoa.
10. What’s the best way to get stiff peaks in whipped cream?
    • Use cold cream and a cold bowl to help the cream whip faster and hold its shape.