Indulge in the delightful experience of making and enjoying these flat croissants, an innovative twist on the traditional flaky pastry. This recipe pairs the crisp texture of baked puff pastry with a luscious vanilla custard filling, topped elegantly with fresh blueberries or your choice of berries. Perfect for dessert or as a sophisticated accompaniment to your coffee break, these croissants combine simplicity with gourmet appeal.
Why You’ll Love This:
These flat croissants offer a unique and enjoyable variation from typical croissants by providing a crunchier texture that perfectly complements the smooth, rich custard within. The fresh berries not only add a burst of freshness but also a visually appealing contrast that makes these pastries as beautiful as they are delicious. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate a pastry that is both a feast for the eyes and a delight to the palate.
Perfect Occasion:
These croissants are ideal for brunches, afternoon tea parties, or as a refined dessert at dinner gatherings. They're also fantastic for holiday breakfasts or as a treat to brighten up any day of the week. Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a special homemade treat, these flat croissants are sure to be a hit.
Decoration Tips:
After piping the custard onto the croissants, top them with an assortment of fresh berries for a colorful and tasty decoration. Consider using blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a mix of colors and flavors. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey can also enhance their sweetness and visual appeal.
Ingredients:
- For the Croissants:
- 14 oz (400 g) puff pastry
- For the Custard Filling:
- 1 cup (250 ml) milk
- 1.75 oz (50 g) sugar
- 3 egg yolks
- 0.88 oz (25 g) cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- For Decoration:
- Fresh blueberries or berries of your choice
- Prepare the Custard:
- Warm the milk in a saucepan until steaming. In a separate bowl, whisk sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch until smooth. Gradually pour in the hot milk while stirring. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat until thickened, stirring continuously. Stir in vanilla extract, then transfer to a bowl and cover directly with plastic wrap. Allow to cool.
- Prepare the Croissants:
- Preheat the oven to 390°F (200°C). On a floured surface, roll out the puff pastry and cut into 8-9 triangles. Make a small slit at the wide end of each triangle and roll them up to form croissant shapes.
- Bake:
- Place the croissants on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with another sheet of parchment and place a second baking sheet on top to flatten. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Assemble:
- Once cooled, pipe the vanilla custard onto the croissants and garnish with fresh blueberries.
Conclusion:
Enjoy these exquisite flat croissants, a perfect blend of crunchy pastry and creamy filling topped with the refreshing zest of fresh berries. Ideal for any occasion that calls for a touch of elegance and a dash of sweetness. Enjoy your crafting and savoring of this delightful pastry!