Strawberry Napoleon
Flaky Strawberry Napoleon with Creamy Custard Filling
Ingredients:
For the Puff Pastry:
1 package (17.3 oz) frozen puff pastry, thawed
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the Pastry Cream:
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup cornstarch
4 large egg yolks
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Layer:
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
For Decoration:
Powdered sugar for dusting
Fresh strawberries (optional)
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheets and cut each sheet into 3 equal strips.
Place the pastry strips on the prepared baking sheets and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
Cover the pastry with another sheet of parchment paper and place another baking sheet on top to keep the pastry from puffing too much.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Let the pastry cool completely on a wire rack.
Make the Pastry Cream:
In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to steam, but do not let it boil.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks until smooth.
Gradually whisk the hot milk into the egg mixture, then return the mixture to the saucepan.
Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract.
Pour the pastry cream into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming), and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
Prepare the Strawberry Layer:
In a medium bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with the sugar and lemon juice. Let sit for 15 minutes to macerate.
Assemble the Napoleon:
Place one piece of puff pastry on a serving plate. Spread a layer of chilled pastry cream over the top, followed by a layer of macerated strawberries.
Repeat the process with another layer of puff pastry, pastry cream, and strawberries.
Top with the final puff pastry piece.
Dust the top with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh strawberries, if desired.
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including chilling)
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
