These Custard-Filled Pastries are the perfect treat for anyone who loves a smooth, creamy filling wrapped in a delicate, flaky pastry. Whether you serve them at a special event, as a weekend treat, or simply for a cozy dessert, they’re sure to be a hit! These pastries are filled with a delicious homemade custard, then baked to golden perfection for the ultimate indulgence.
Ingredients
For the Pastry:
1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
For the Custard Filling:
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 large egg yolks
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Filling
In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to steam, but not boil.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, salt, egg yolks, and cornstarch until smooth and light in color.
Gradually pour the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to temper the eggs (this prevents them from scrambling).
Return the combined mixture to the saucepan over medium heat, whisking continuously. Cook until the custard thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Be sure not to let it boil.
Once thickened, remove from heat and whisk in the butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Allow the custard to cool to room temperature, then cover it with plastic wrap, ensuring the wrap touches the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
Step 2: Prepare the Pastry
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. If using store-bought, cut the sheet into squares or rectangles (about 3 inches wide).
Place a dollop of chilled custard in the center of each pastry square.
Fold the corners of the pastry over the custard to form a neat square or rectangle. You can fold the sides over the filling or make little pockets, depending on your preference.
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of the pastries with the egg wash to give them a golden, shiny finish.
Step 3: Bake the Pastries
Place the filled pastries on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
Remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Dust the cooled pastries with powdered sugar if desired for extra sweetness and decoration.
Serve the pastries warm or at room temperature as a delightful dessert or a sweet treat with coffee or tea.
Why This Recipe Works
Flaky and Buttery Pastry: Puff pastry is the perfect vehicle for this custard filling because it puffs up in the oven, creating layers of light, buttery pastry.
Smooth and Creamy Custard: The homemade custard filling is rich, velvety, and packed with flavor thanks to the vanilla and butter.
Customizable: You can adjust the sweetness of the custard to your preference and even add a little citrus zest or cinnamon for extra flavor.
Simple Ingredients: These pastries require very few ingredients, most of which are staples in the pantry or fridge.
Tips for Success
Chill the Custard: Allow the custard to chill completely before filling the pastries. This prevents the custard from oozing out while baking.
Work Quickly with Puff Pastry: Puff pastry can soften and become difficult to work with if it’s not kept cold. If necessary, chill the pastry sheets again before assembling the pastries.
Serve Immediately: These pastries are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them gently in the oven if needed.
Optional Variations
Fruit-Filled Pastries: Add fresh berries or sliced fruit to the custard filling before baking for a fruity twist.
Chocolate Custard: For a chocolate version, whisk in 1/4 cup of cocoa powder into the custard mixture or add melted chocolate.
Almond Flavor: Add a few drops of almond extract to the custard for a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.
Nutrition Information (per serving, assuming 8 pastries)
Calories: ~250
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 21g
Protein: 3g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 8g
These Custard-Filled Pastries are simple yet elegant, making them the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a special gathering or just as a sweet treat to enjoy at home, they are sure to delight your taste buds with their crisp, golden pastry and creamy filling. Enjoy the best of both worlds with this easy-to-make and irresistibly delicious dessert!