This Thousand-Leaf with Vanilla Cream dessert, inspired by the classic French Mille-Feuille, is a delicate and indulgent treat featuring layers of crisp puff pastry and luscious vanilla cream. The contrast between the flaky pastry and the smooth, rich filling creates a heavenly texture that melts in your mouth. Perfect for celebrations or an elegant afternoon tea, this dessert is both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients:
For the Puff Pastry Layers:
- 250 grams puff pastry
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 egg white, for glazing
For the Vanilla Cream Filling:
- 750 milliliters whole milk
- 4 egg yolks
- 100 grams granulated sugar
- 1 vanilla pod, seeds scraped
- 100 grams all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
For the Icing:
- 1 egg white
- 100 grams powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 20 grams dark chocolate, melted (for decoration)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Roll out the puff pastry into a thin sheet and place it on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Prick the pastry with a fork to prevent excessive rising.
- Sprinkle with granulated sugar and brush with egg white for a golden finish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 340°F (170°C) for 10-15 minutes, until golden brown.
- Once cooled, carefully cut into three equal parts to create the layers.
- Make the Vanilla Cream Filling:
- In a saucepan, heat the milk with the vanilla pod seeds and lemon zest until it starts to steam.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until pale and creamy.
- Gradually add the flour, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, stirring constantly.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring until thickened.
- Remove from heat and let the cream cool completely.
- Prepare the Icing:
- Whisk the egg white with powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
- Melt the dark chocolate and set aside for decoration.
- Assemble the Dessert:
- Place one layer of baked puff pastry on a serving plate.
- Spread a generous amount of vanilla cream over the pastry.
- Repeat the process with the second pastry layer and more cream.
- Finish with the final pastry layer on top.
- Decorate:
- Pour the lemon icing over the top layer, spreading evenly.
- Using a piping bag or syringe, drizzle melted chocolate in thin lines over the icing.
- Create a decorative pattern by dragging a skewer through the chocolate lines.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate for at least 12 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set.
- Slice carefully and serve chilled for the best texture.
This Thousand-Leaf with Vanilla Cream is a masterpiece of textures and flavors, combining crisp pastry with silky vanilla cream and a touch of citrus. Would you like variations or additional serving ideas?
You can also explore a similar recipe here!