Recipe Introduction:
These delightful strawberry cream pastries are a perfect balance of buttery, flaky pastry, rich cream filling, and fresh, juicy strawberries. They’re not only a treat for your taste buds but also a visual delight with their beautiful rose-shaped strawberry topping. Ideal for any occasion or just as a sweet indulgence to brighten your day!
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for sweetening the cream)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6-8 fresh strawberries, thinly sliced
- Powdered sugar (for dusting on top)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon of cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut the pastry into rounds or squares (depending on your preference). Using a sharp knife, score a small border about 1/2 inch from the edge of each pastry to create a crust.
- Egg Wash: Beat the egg and brush it onto the exposed pastry edges to help them brown beautifully while baking.
- Bake the Pastry: Place the prepared pastry pieces on the baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden and puffed up. Allow them to cool on a wire rack.
- Make the Cream Filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. If you want a richer filling, you can fold in some cream cheese at this stage.
- Assemble the Pastries: Once the puff pastry rounds have cooled, gently press down the center to create a small well. Fill the center with the whipped cream mixture.
- Decorate with Strawberries: Arrange the thinly sliced strawberries in a rose-like shape on top of the cream filling. For added elegance, dust the pastries with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar.
- Serve and Enjoy: These pastries are best served fresh, and they make a stunning dessert or brunch treat. Enjoy the combination of creamy, flaky, and fruity goodness in every bite!