Cream and Berry Pastry Balls: A Sweet and Elegant Treat
Perfect for gatherings, tea parties, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these Cream and Berry Pastry Balls are a delightful combination of flaky pastry, luscious cream, and fresh berries. Let’s get started on this elegant dessert!
Ingredients
For the Pastry Balls:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for sprinkling)
For the Filling:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Berry Topping:
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, diced
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for glazing)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pastry Balls:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Use a round cookie cutter (about 3 inches in diameter) to cut out circles.
- Gently fold each circle into a ball shape, pinching the edges to seal.
- Place the balls seam-side down on the baking sheet. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar if desired.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. Let cool completely.
- Make the Whipped Cream Filling:
- In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Refrigerate until ready to use.
- Prepare the Berries:
- In a bowl, mix the diced strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Drizzle with honey if desired for added sweetness.
- Assemble the Pastry Balls:
- Once the pastry balls are cool, use a sharp knife to cut a small opening at the top of each ball.
- Fill each pastry ball with whipped cream using a piping bag or spoon.
- Top with the mixed berries, gently pressing them into the cream.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Arrange the pastry balls on a serving platter and serve immediately.
Cooking Notes
- Puff Pastry Handling: Keep the puff pastry cold while working to ensure flaky layers.
- Berry Options: Feel free to use any combination of fresh or seasonal berries you like.
- Storage: These pastry balls are best served fresh. If storing, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Variations
- Chocolate Lovers:
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the filled pastry balls for an indulgent twist.
- Citrus Zing:
- Add lemon or orange zest to the whipped cream for a refreshing flavor.
- Nutty Delight:
- Sprinkle crushed nuts like pistachios or almonds on top for added crunch.
Keto and Low-Carb Version
Ingredient Adjustments:
- Replace puff pastry with keto-friendly fathead dough.
- Use a sugar substitute like erythritol in the whipped cream.
- Opt for low-carb berries such as raspberries and blackberries.
Instructions:
- Prepare the fathead dough according to your recipe, shaping it into small balls.
- Bake as directed and follow the same steps for filling and assembling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen berries?
- Yes, but thaw and drain them well to prevent sogginess.
2. Can I prepare these in advance?
- You can bake the pastry balls ahead of time, but assemble them with cream and berries just before serving to maintain freshness.
3. What can I use instead of puff pastry?
- Crescent roll dough or filo dough can work as alternatives, but the texture will differ.
4. Can I make these dairy-free?
- Substitute coconut cream for whipping cream and use a vegan puff pastry.
5. How do I prevent the pastry from deflating?
- Avoid opening the oven door during baking, and let them cool naturally before handling.
Cream and Berry Pastry Balls are a delightful treat that combines simplicity with sophistication. Whether you’re entertaining guests or indulging in a personal dessert moment, these little delights are guaranteed to impress. Experiment with flavors and toppings, and enjoy this versatile recipe for any occasion!
