This Thousand Leaves Cream Pastry (Mille-Feuille) is a delightful dessert with layers of crisp puff pastry, luscious vanilla cream, and a sprinkling of icing sugar. Quick to make yet elegant in presentation, it’s perfect for celebrations or a sweet treat to enjoy with coffee. The creamy filling pairs beautifully with the buttery, flaky pastry, making every bite irresistible.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
For the Cream:
- 500 ml (2 cups) milk
- Peel of 1 lemon
- Peel of 1 orange
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 100 g (½ cup) sugar
- 250 ml (1 cup) milk
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla essence
- 4 heaped tablespoons cornstarch
For the Pastry:
- 1 sheet of rectangular puff pastry
- 2 tbsp sugar (for sprinkling)
For Garnish:
- Toasted sliced almonds (optional)
- Icing sugar (for dusting)
Directions
1. Prepare the Cream Filling:
- In a saucepan, combine 500 ml milk, lemon peel, orange peel, cinnamon stick, and sugar. Heat over medium heat for 4 minutes. Remove from heat and let it infuse for a few minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix 250 ml milk, egg yolks, vanilla essence, and cornstarch until smooth and lump-free.
- Strain the infused milk back into the saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring constantly. Gradually add the yolk mixture. Cook, stirring, until the cream thickens.
- Transfer the cream to a bowl, cover with cling film (touching the surface to prevent skin formation), and refrigerate.
2. Toast the Almonds:
- In a frying pan, toast sliced almonds over medium heat for 4 minutes until golden brown. Set aside for garnish.
3. Bake the Puff Pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Prick the puff pastry sheet with a fork to prevent it from puffing unevenly. Sprinkle with sugar.
- Place the puff pastry on a baking tray lined with baking paper. Cover it with another sheet of baking paper and place a second tray on top to weigh it down.
- Bake for 35 minutes or until golden and crisp. Let it cool completely, then divide it into two equal parts.
4. Assemble the Pastry:
- Beat the chilled cream filling for 1 minute to smooth it out and transfer it to a piping bag.
- Spread or pipe the cream onto one layer of the puff pastry. Place the second layer of pastry on top.
- Dust with icing sugar and sprinkle toasted almonds on top if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Serve with fresh berries for a fruity twist.
- Drizzle with chocolate sauce for added decadence.
- Garnish with mint leaves for a fresh touch.
- Enjoy as a dessert after a light meal.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the cream is smooth and lump-free by whisking thoroughly before heating.
- For evenly baked puff pastry, don’t skip the step of weighing it down with a tray.
- Let the cream cool completely before assembling the pastry to prevent sogginess.
- Use a serrated knife to slice the assembled pastry neatly.
- Customize the cream flavor with a touch of almond extract or coffee essence.
Nutritional Benefits
- Provides calcium and protein from milk and eggs.
- Puff pastry offers energy from carbohydrates, making it a satisfying dessert.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian
- Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free puff pastry.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~300
- Protein: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 20 g
Storage
- Store the assembled pastry in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- For best results, assemble just before serving to maintain the crispiness of the puff pastry.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, yet impressively elegant.
- Perfect balance of flaky pastry and creamy filling.
- Versatile enough to customize with flavors or garnishes.
- A guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Conclusion
This Thousand Leaves Cream Pastry is a simple yet indulgent dessert that’s sure to impress. The contrast of crispy puff pastry and rich cream makes it a treat to savor. Whether for a special occasion or a casual gathering, this dessert will delight your taste buds and leave everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try—you’ll love every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use store-bought puff pastry?
Yes, store-bought puff pastry works perfectly and saves time. - Can I make the cream filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cream up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. - How do I prevent the pastry from puffing unevenly?
Prick the pastry with a fork and weigh it down with another baking tray. - Can I use a different garnish?
Absolutely! Try chocolate shavings, fruit, or chopped nuts for variety. - Is this dessert suitable for freezing?
The cream may not freeze well, but you can freeze the baked puff pastry separately. - Can I add other flavors to the cream?
Yes, you can infuse the cream with coffee, almond, or even liqueur for a unique twist. - What if I don’t have a piping bag?
You can spread the cream with a spatula instead. - How do I ensure clean slices?
Use a serrated knife and cut gently to avoid crushing the layers. - Can I make this dairy-free?
Use a plant-based milk alternative and a non-dairy whipped cream substitute. - How long does this dessert stay fresh?
It’s best enjoyed within 1–2 days as the puff pastry may lose its crispness.