Millefeuille: The Classic Recipe for a Fragrant and Delicious Dessert
Millefeuille, also known as Napoleon, is a timeless French pastry made of layers of flaky puff pastry and smooth, vanilla-flavored pastry cream. This delightful dessert is sure to impress with its delicate layers and sweet, creamy filling.
Ingredients:
1 package puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp cornstarch
1/4 cup water
1/2 cup icing sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
Prepare the Puff Pastry:
Preheat your oven to 400ยฐF (200ยฐC).
Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to an even thickness. Cut the pastry into 3 equal strips (or to your desired size for your millefeuille layers).
Place the strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake according to the package instructions or until the pastry is golden and crisp (usually 15-20 minutes). Once baked, let them cool completely on a wire rack.
Make the Pastry Cream:
In a saucepan, combine 1 1/2 cups of heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat until it starts to simmer, stirring constantly.
In a separate small bowl, mix 1/2 cup heavy cream, cornstarch, and water to form a smooth paste.
Once the cream mixture on the stove starts to simmer, add the cornstarch mixture and continue whisking until the cream thickens to a custard-like consistency.
Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly. Cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface of the cream to avoid a skin forming, and let it cool completely.
Assemble the Millefeuille:
Once the puff pastry and pastry cream have cooled, start assembling the millefeuille by placing one strip of puff pastry on a serving plate.
Spread a layer of the cooled pastry cream over the pastry. Repeat the layering process, alternating puff pastry and pastry cream, ending with a final puff pastry layer on top.
Finishing Touches:
Dust the top layer with icing sugar for a polished finish. For a more elegant touch, you can also drizzle chocolate ganache or use a fork to create a pattern in the sugar.
Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the millefeuille into individual portions, and serve immediately. Enjoy the crisp, creamy layers of this classic dessert!
Tips:
For a twist, you can infuse the cream with a little lemon zest or almond extract to give the filling a unique flavor.
If you prefer a softer puff pastry, you can brush the layers with a little simple syrup before layering.
This elegant dessert will surely wow your guests or be a delightful treat for any occasion! #Millefeuille #FrenchPastry #ClassicDessert