Delicate Puff Pastry Squares with Creamy Lemon Filling, Strawberries, and Pine Nuts: A Sweet Treat Perfect for Sharing

Indulge in these exquisite Puff Pastry Squares, a delightful concoction of creamy lemon custard paired with the fresh, juicy sweetness of strawberries and the subtle crunch of pine nuts. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into an elegant dessert that’s as beautiful to look at as it is to eat. Each square offers a burst of tangy lemon flavor complemented by the natural sweetness of the fruit and the nuttiness of pine nuts, all encased in a flaky, golden puff pastry.

Why You’ll Love This:

These puff pastry squares are a perfect blend of texture and flavor. The creamy lemon filling is smooth and vibrant, providing a refreshing contrast to the crisp pastry. Strawberries add a fruity freshness that cuts through the richness, while pine nuts offer an unexpected crunch and depth of flavor. These squares are not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize the fruit topping according to your preference or seasonal availability.

Perfect Occasion:

These puff pastry squares are ideal for picnics, afternoon teas, or as a delightful finish to a brunch or dinner party. They are easy to serve and share, making them perfect for gatherings where you want to offer a hand-held dessert that doesn’t require utensils. They’re also a charming addition to a dessert buffet or a sweet snack during a family game night.

Decoration Tips:

Before baking, dust the top of the pastry with a light sprinkling of granulated sugar for extra crunch and sweetness. Once baked and slightly cooled, a final dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch. If desired, garnish with additional fresh strawberries or a few whole pine nuts to enhance the visual appeal and hint at the flavors inside.

Ingredients:

• 1 rectangular sheet of puff pastry
• Strawberries, chopped or other preferred fruits
• Pine nuts, as desired
• Milk and powdered sugar for finishing
• For the lemon cream:
  • 3 egg yolks
  • 100g sugar
  • 30g cornstarch
  • 25g lemon juice
  • Zest from 1-2 lemons
  • 350ml milk

Instructions:

1. Start by preparing the lemon cream. Heat the milk with the lemon zest until warm. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch. Gradually add the warmed milk through a sieve to the yolk mixture while whisking.
2. Return the mixture to the heat and continue whisking until the cream thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice. Set the cream aside to cool slightly.
3. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
4. Take the puff pastry and dock one half with a fork. Spread the lemon cream over this half, then scatter the chopped strawberries and/or pine nuts over the cream.
5. Fold the undocked half of the pastry over the filled half, sealing the edges tightly. Using a knife, score the top into squares without cutting all the way through.
6. Brush the top with milk and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Once baked, sprinkle with powdered sugar, separate the squares, and serve.

Enjoy these delightful Puff Pastry Squares with Lemon Cream, Strawberries, and Pine Nuts, a perfect treat to share that combines elegance with delicious simplicity!