Puff Pastry Cream and Berry Cake

Introduction

This Puff Pastry Cream and Berry Cake is a delightful dessert that has become a family favorite in my household. The combination of flaky puff pastry, rich cream, and vibrant berry filling creates a stunning treat that’s both visually appealing and deliciously satisfying. Every time I make it, my family gathers around the kitchen, eager to dig into this beautiful creation. The layers of creamy filling and sweet berries are a perfect balance, making this cake a showstopper for any occasion. Whether it’s a summer gathering, a birthday party, or simply a weekend treat, this cake never fails to impress.

Ingredients

For the Puff Pastry Layers:

• Frozen puff pastry sheets: 2 sheets (thawed)
• Powdered sugar: For dusting

For the Cream Filling:

• Heavy whipping cream: 1 1/2 cups (chilled)
• Powdered sugar: 1/4 cup
• Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
• Mascarpone cheese (optional for richness): 1/2 cup

For the Berry Filling:

• Mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries): 1 1/2 cups
• Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup
• Lemon juice: 1 tbsp
• Cornstarch: 1 tbsp (mixed with 2 tbsp water)

For Garnish:

• Fresh berries: For decoration
• Powdered sugar: For dusting

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets on a floured surface. Cut them into large circles, about the size of your desired cake. Use a round cake tin as a guide if needed.
3. Place the circles on parchment-lined baking sheets.

Step 2: Bake the Puff Pastry

1. Prick the puff pastry circles all over with a fork to prevent excessive puffing.
2. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.
3. Let the pastry circles cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 3: Prepare the Berry Filling

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the mixed berries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice.
2. Cook until the berries start to break down and release their juices, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Cream Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
2. If you choose to use mascarpone cheese, gently fold it in for extra creaminess.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

1. Place one puff pastry circle on a serving plate.
2. Spread a layer of the whipped cream filling over the pastry, followed by a layer of the cooled berry filling.
3. Repeat the process with another puff pastry circle, more whipped cream, and berry filling.
4. Finish with the top layer of puff pastry.

Step 6: Garnish the Cake

1. Pipe additional whipped cream decoratively on top of the cake.
2. Garnish with fresh berries and dust with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: Approximately 320
• Total Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Cholesterol: 65mg
• Sodium: 30mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 30g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 12g
• Protein: 3g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

How to Serve

• Chill the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
• Slice the cake into wedges and serve it on individual plates.
• Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Add a sprig of mint for a refreshing touch.
• Serve with extra mixed berries on the side for a vibrant presentation.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Berries: While frozen berries can work, fresh berries will provide a brighter flavor and better texture.
2. Chill Your Mixing Bowl: For the best whipped cream, chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping.
3. Don’t Skip the Dusting: Dusting the cake with powdered sugar just before serving adds a lovely visual appeal and a touch of sweetness.
4. Try Different Fillings: Experiment with different fruits or flavored whipped creams to create variations of this dessert.
5. Watch the Pastry: Puff pastry can burn quickly, so keep an eye on it while baking and adjust the time as necessary.

Recipe Variations

• Fruit Variations: Use other fruits like peaches, cherries, or strawberries instead of mixed berries for a different flavor profile.
• Flavored Cream: Add a tablespoon of lemon or orange zest to the cream filling for a citrusy twist.
• Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle melted chocolate over the layers for a decadent touch.
• Nutty Addition: Incorporate crushed nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts, into the cream filling for added texture.
• Layer It Up: Create more layers by using additional puff pastry circles, alternating cream and berry fillings for a taller cake.

Serving Suggestions

• This cake is perfect for summer picnics, birthday parties, or holiday gatherings.
• Serve alongside a refreshing fruit salad or a scoop of sorbet for a light dessert option.
• Pair it with a chilled glass of sparkling wine or lemonade for a festive touch.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: This cake is best served fresh, but you can freeze the baked puff pastry layers individually, wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap. They can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. Assemble the cake fresh when ready to serve.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the individual components in advance and assemble the cake on the day you plan to serve it.

1. Can I use homemade puff pastry?

• Absolutely! If you prefer homemade puff pastry, feel free to use your favorite recipe.

1. What can I substitute for mascarpone cheese?

• Cream cheese can be used as a substitute for mascarpone if you prefer.

1. Can I use whipped topping instead of whipped cream?

• Yes, whipped topping can be used, but homemade whipped cream offers a richer flavor.

1. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

• Yes, all ingredients in this recipe are vegetarian-friendly.

1. How do I store leftover cake?

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

1. Can I use other sweeteners instead of granulated sugar?

• You can use honey or agave syrup, but it may alter the texture of the berry filling.

1. What kind of berries work best for this recipe?

• A mix of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries works beautifully, but feel free to use your favorites!

1. Can I add more cream filling?

• Yes, feel free to increase the cream filling for a richer cake, but ensure the layers can support it.

1. Is this cake gluten-free?
   • This recipe contains puff pastry made with wheat flour, but you can find gluten-free puff pastry alternatives.

Conclusion

This Puff Pastry Cream and Berry Cake is an indulgent dessert that perfectly balances flaky pastry, creamy filling, and fruity berry goodness. It’s an easy-to-make yet impressive dessert that will undoubtedly become a staple in your baking repertoire. The visual appeal and delightful taste make it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a special celebration. With this recipe, you’ll create a dessert that not only looks beautiful but also brings smiles to the faces of everyone who gets to enjoy a slice. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this exquisite cake!

Print