Sumptuous Fruit and Vanilla Cream Pastry: A Decadent Treat with Layers of Flaky Pastry, Smooth Vanilla Cream, and Juicy Fruit

This Fruit and Vanilla Cream Pastry combines flaky puff pastry layers with a rich vanilla cream and a vibrant fruit filling, creating a dessert that is as delicious as it is beautiful. The puff pastry bakes into golden, crispy layers that provide a perfect contrast to the creamy, luxurious vanilla filling. The addition of tart cherries or mixed berries adds a burst of freshness and slightly tangy flavor, making this pastry a well-rounded treat.

Why You’ll Love This:

This pastry is ideal for those who enjoy the delightful interplay of textures and flavors. The smooth vanilla cream is rich and comforting, while the fruit layer introduces a refreshing and slightly acidic touch that cuts through the richness. The puff pastry’s buttery crispness rounds out the experience, ensuring each bite has crunch, creaminess, and fruitiness. It’s a versatile dessert that can be adapted to various fruits depending on the season or personal preference.

Perfect Occasion:

This layered pastry is perfect for special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or any festive gathering. It’s also suitable for high tea events or as a sophisticated dessert at dinner parties. Whether it’s a casual family gathering or a more formal event, this dessert is sure to impress with its elegant appearance and exquisite taste.

Decoration Tips:

For a stunning presentation, dust the top pastry layer with powdered sugar just before serving. This not only adds a sweet finish but also gives the pastry a beautiful, snow-dusted look. If you’re serving this at a gathering, consider garnishing with fresh mint leaves or additional fresh berries alongside each slice for added color and freshness.

Ingredients:

• 500g puff pastry (two sheets, 250g each)
• For the vanilla cream:
  • 1.5 liters of milk
  • 6 egg yolks
  • 4 packets of vanilla sugar (40g)
  • 200g granulated sugar
  • 180g cornstarch
  • 100g butter or margarine, at room temperature
  • 500ml heavy cream
• For the fruit layer:
  • 400g frozen cherries or mixed berries
  • 100g granulated sugar
  • 30g cornstarch
  • 100ml water
• Additional:
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pastry:
   • Roll out each puff pastry sheet to approximately 40 x 28 cm. Place on a baking sheet, prick with a fork, and bake at 220°C (428°F) for about 15 minutes or until golden. Repeat with the second sheet.
2. Vanilla Cream:
   • Whisk egg yolks with granulated sugar for one minute. Mix in about 200ml of milk, cornstarch, and vanilla, and whisk for another minute.
   • Heat the remaining milk in a saucepan. Once it boils, reduce heat, and slowly incorporate the yolk mixture, stirring continuously. Cook for a few minutes until thickened, then transfer to a mixing bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and cool to room temperature.
3. Fruit Layer:
   • Combine the fruit, sugar, and half the water in a saucepan. Mix the remaining water with cornstarch. Once the fruit mixture boils, add the cornstarch mixture, stir, and cook for two minutes. Remove from heat and cool.
4. Final Assembly:
   • Whip the butter into the cooled vanilla cream, then gradually mix in the heavy cream until smooth.
   • In a deep baking dish or mold, place one layer of baked puff pastry. Spread half of the vanilla cream over it, then the fruit layer, followed by the remaining vanilla cream.
   • Top with the second pastry sheet and dust with powdered sugar.

Enjoy this luxurious Fruit and Vanilla Cream Pastry, a perfect blend of crispy, creamy, and fruity elements that come together to create a truly delightful dessert experience!