Vanilla cream sheets

Vanilla Cream Pastry Sheets - Delicious Recipe

Welcome to the wonderful world of desserts! Today we will create a delicious treat that combines crispy puff pastry sheets with fluffy vanilla cream and a drizzle of delicate glaze. This recipe, known by various names such as "Napoleon" or "Millefeuille," is a true indulgence for the taste buds and will surely bring a smile to anyone who tastes it. Let's get started!

Preparation Time: 1 hour
Baking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 12 servings

Ingredients

For the puff pastry:
- 450 g all-purpose flour
- 2 egg yolks
- 125 g full-fat yogurt
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 100 ml sparkling water (or cold water)
- ¾ teaspoon baking soda
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
- 200 g butter at room temperature (or margarine)
- 40 g flour (for the butter)

For the vanilla cream:
- 750 ml heavy cream
- 1 packet of vanilla pudding

For the glaze:
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup water (approximately 125 ml)
- 4 squares of milk chocolate
- 1 teaspoon butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the puff pastry

1. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, egg yolks, yogurt, baking soda, and vinegar. Gradually add the sparkling water, mixing continuously until you obtain an elastic and non-sticky dough. If necessary, add a little flour or water, depending on the desired consistency.

2. Forming the dough: Divide the dough into two equal parts. In another bowl, mix the butter (or margarine) with the 40 g of flour. Divide this mixture into four parts.

3. Rolling out the dough: Take the first part of the dough and roll it out on a lightly oiled surface, forming a rectangle. Spread one side with the butter-flour mixture and cut it into squares. Bring the opposite squares to the center and form a package. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

4. Repeating the process: Repeat the operation with the other part of the dough. After 30 minutes, take the dough out of the refrigerator, roll it out again, and repeat the steps to create additional layers.

5. Baking the sheets: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Cut the sheets to the desired size, prick them with a fork, and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Cover with another tray and add a weight (such as dried beans) on top. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, until the sheets are golden and crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the vanilla cream

1. Whipping the cream: In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until it becomes firm.

2. Adding the pudding: Add the vanilla pudding and continue to mix until the cream becomes smooth and fluffy. Ensure there are no lumps.

Step 3: Prepare the glaze

1. Boiling the ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water, then bring to a boil. Check the consistency with a spoon; when it resembles honey, it is ready.

2. Cooling the glaze: Remove the saucepan from heat and place it over a bowl of cold water. Stir with a wooden spoon until the glaze turns whitish.

3. Adding the chocolate: Melt the milk chocolate along with the butter, either in a double boiler or in the microwave, then add it to the glaze.

Step 4: Assemble the dessert

1. Layering: On a serving platter, place the first puff pastry sheet, spread a layer of vanilla cream, then add the second sheet. Repeat the process until all sheets are used.

2. Glazing: Finally, pour the glaze over the last sheet and use a spoon to create decorative stripes with the melted chocolate.

3. Final cooling: Let the dessert chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or even longer if you have patience). This will help firm up the layers and enhance the flavors.

Practical Tips

- Choosing ingredients: Use high-quality butter for better puff pastry. Butter with a high-fat content will provide a richer and crispier texture.
- Patience is key: Allow the dough to rest in the refrigerator. This will help develop the gluten and make the dough easier to handle.
- Flavor variations: You can add almond or rum extracts to the vanilla cream for a unique flavor. Fresh fruits (such as strawberries or raspberries) can also be added between layers for an extra touch of freshness.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

Each serving of this recipe contains approximately 320-350 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It is an indulgent dessert but also offers nutritional benefits, thanks to the proteins in the cream and the calcium in the yogurt. Of course, it's best enjoyed in moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought puff pastry?
Absolutely! If you're short on time, you can opt for store-bought puff pastry, but the taste will undoubtedly be better with homemade dough.

2. How can I store the dessert?
This dessert keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is recommended to consume it within 24 hours to maintain the crispy texture of the sheets.

3. What drinks pair well with this dessert?
A fruit tea or a sweet white wine pairs perfectly with the flavor of this dessert. Additionally, a black coffee can balance out the sweetness.

Final Notes

This dessert with puff pastry and vanilla cream is not just a recipe; it's a culinary experience. Each crispy layer, each spoonful of cream contributes to a moment of indulgence that deserves to be shared. So put on your apron and enjoy cooking! I hope you enjoyed this recipe and that you'll return for more culinary delights. Bon appétit!