This Classic Cream Slice (Cremeschnitte) is a timeless dessert made with layers of flaky puff pastry and a generous filling of smooth, vanilla-infused whipped cream. Topped with a light dusting of powdered sugar and crunchy pastry crumbs, this dessert combines rich, creamy sweetness with a delicate crunch in every bite. Perfect for serving as the star of your dessert table, this elegant yet easy-to-make treat evokes nostalgia while remaining a hit for modern palates. Whether it's a weekend family gathering or a special celebration, this cream slice will quickly become a crowd favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
You’ll love this cream slice for its luxurious yet simple layers of puff pastry and creamy vanilla filling. The puff pastry bakes up to be beautifully crisp and golden, providing a lovely contrast to the smooth, sweet whipped cream filling. The use of instant vanilla pudding in the cream makes it easy to prepare and guarantees a stable, luscious texture. Each bite combines light and flaky pastry with soft, rich cream, creating a perfectly balanced dessert that’s indulgent without being overly sweet. Plus, this recipe is perfect for making ahead, giving you more time to enjoy your event.
Perfect Occasion:
This cream slice is perfect for any occasion where you want to impress your guests without spending too much time in the kitchen. It’s great for family dinners, holiday parties, or weekend get-togethers. Its light, creamy texture makes it ideal for serving after a heavy meal, while its elegant appearance ensures it will stand out on any dessert table. You can also make it for birthdays or celebrations, where its combination of simplicity and sophistication will win over any crowd.
Decoration Tips:
To elevate your cream slice presentation, dust the top generously with powdered sugar before serving. You can also crumble the leftover puff pastry scraps and scatter them on top for added texture and visual appeal. For an even more elegant touch, garnish with fresh fruit like raspberries or strawberries, which will add a pop of color and balance the sweetness. Alternatively, you can drizzle a bit of melted chocolate over the top or serve each slice with a side of fruit compote for a more indulgent experience.
Ingredients:
For the Puff Pastry:
- 1 package puff pastry (thawed according to the package instructions)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
For the Whipped Cream Filling:
- 750 ml heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 2 packets instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1/2 cup sugar
Instructions:
- Prepare the Puff Pastry:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) with the fan setting on. Roll out the puff pastry on a clean, flat surface and cut it into two large rectangles. Place the rectangles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and prick the dough with a fork to prevent puffing. Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown. Bake any leftover pastry scraps for use as decoration later.Once baked, allow the pastry to cool completely. Cut each large rectangle in half horizontally, so you have a total of four pastry layers. - Prepare the Whipped Cream Filling:
In the bowl of a stand mixer or with a hand mixer, whip the heavy cream, milk, vanilla pudding mix, and sugar together until stiff peaks form. The vanilla pudding will help stabilize the whipped cream and give it a smooth, creamy texture. Once fully whipped, set aside. - Assemble the Cream Slice:
Place one of the baked puff pastry layers on a serving plate or cake board. Spread a quarter of the whipped cream evenly over the pastry, using a spatula to smooth it out. Place another puff pastry layer on top and repeat the process, layering the pastry with whipped cream until you’ve used all four pastry layers. The top layer should be covered with whipped cream as well. - Cover the Sides:
Use the remaining whipped cream to cover the sides of the cream slice, smoothing the cream to create an even, clean look. This step adds to the overall presentation, giving the cake a polished, professional appearance. - Decorate the Cake:
Take the baked puff pastry scraps, crumble them into small pieces, and sprinkle them generously over the top of the cake. This adds a beautiful texture and visual appeal. Dust the entire cake with powdered sugar before serving for a classic finish. - Chill and Serve:
Place the cake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to allow it to set and stabilize. For the best results, leave it overnight. Before serving, remove the cake from the fridge and slice into squares or rectangles.
Enjoy this rich, creamy, and indulgent Classic Cream Slice, a perfect dessert for any occasion!