Cream puff with whipped cream

Cream Puff with Whipped Cream - a refined and delicious dessert

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 12 servings

The history of cream puffs takes us through centuries, being a popular dessert that has won the hearts of many generations. This cake with fine layers of pastry and delicate cream is perfect for any occasion - from a family meal to a party. Today, I will present you with a simple and quick recipe to prepare a cream puff with whipped cream, which is sure to impress everyone.

Necessary ingredients:

- 400 g frozen puff pastry (make sure it is completely thawed before use)
- 500 ml milk (use whole milk for a richer cream)
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 4 egg yolks (at room temperature)
- 4 tablespoons sugar (can be adjusted to taste)
- 1/2 vanilla bean (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, if preferred)
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar (for an extra flavor)
- 250 g sweetened liquid cream (or unsweetened if you want to control the sweetness level)

Useful tips for ingredients:

- Use high-quality puff pastry for a perfect result.
- If you don't have sweetened liquid cream, you can use natural cream and sweeten it to taste.
- It is important that all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a smooth and well-emulsified cream.

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the pastry sheets:
- Start by preheating the oven to 175-180 degrees Celsius.
- On a floured work surface, divide the puff pastry into two equal parts.
- Roll each part into a thin sheet, being careful not to tear it. Use additional flour if necessary to prevent sticking.
- Place each sheet on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake in the oven for about 12 minutes, or until the sheets are golden and crispy. Allow them to cool completely.

2. Preparing the cream:
- In a pot that can be placed on the stove, add the egg yolks and sugar. Mix well until the mixture becomes homogeneous.
- Add the flour and cornstarch, then gradually pour in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Split the vanilla bean and add the seeds to the mixture, keeping it on low heat. Continue to stir constantly until the cream thickens and resembles a pudding. This is a crucial step, so be sure to keep stirring to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Once the cream has thickened, remove the pot from the heat, take out the vanilla bean, and add the vanilla sugar. Stir to blend the flavors and let the cream cool slightly, but do not let it become cold.

3. Assembling the cream puff:
- On a cooled sheet of pastry, spread the cream evenly, making sure it reaches the edges.
- In another bowl, whip the liquid cream until you achieve the desired consistency (firm but not overly stiff).
- Spread the whipped cream over the cooled cream, smoothing it out with a spatula.
- Carefully place the second sheet of pastry on top of the whipped cream, gently pressing down with your palms to adhere well.
- Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant look and to add a touch of sweetness.

4. Cooling and serving:
- Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour (if you have patience). This will allow the flavors to meld and will make cutting the cake easier.
- When you are ready to serve, cut generous portions and enjoy every bite!

Tips and variations:

- You can add a splash of almond essence to the cream for a distinct flavor.
- If you want a less sweet version, reduce the amount of sugar in the cream and use fresh fruits (e.g., raspberries or strawberries) between the layers of cream and whipped cream.
- This dessert pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee, but also with a sweet wine that will complement the delicate flavors of the cream puff.

Nutritional benefits:

The cream puff with whipped cream is a calorie-rich delicacy, especially due to the sugar and fat content from the cream. A serving can contain approximately 300-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used. However, it is an excellent source of energy and can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use homemade puff pastry?
Yes, homemade puff pastry can add a personal touch to the dessert and improve the final texture.

- How can I store the cream puff?
The cream puff keeps well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 2-3 days. To avoid sogginess, it is recommended to consume it as soon as possible.

- What other combinations can I try?
You can experiment with different flavors, such as chocolate, caramel, or ground nuts. These variations can add an extra layer of flavor and texture to the cake.

In conclusion, the cream puff with whipped cream is a versatile, delicious, and easy-to-make dessert that will bring joy to any meal. Try this recipe, customize it to your taste, and don't forget to share the joy of cooking with your loved ones!