When you think of puff pastry, visions of flaky, golden layers likely come to mind, each one more delicious than the last. Puff pastry is incredibly versatile, lending itself to a multitude of desserts that are both impressive and surprisingly easy to make.
You’ll find that these desserts can wow your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth with minimal effort. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, puff pastry offers endless possibilities for creating delightful treats.
1) Apple Turnovers
Apple turnovers are a classic and delicious puff pastry dessert. Made with flaky pastry and a sweet apple filling, they are perfect for any occasion.
To start, preheat your oven to 400°F. While the oven heats, prepare the apple filling. In a medium pan, cook diced apples with sugar, water, and cornstarch until the mixture thickens.
Next, roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into squares, usually about 12 inches each. Place a spoonful of the apple mixture into the center of each square.
Fold each pastry square diagonally to form triangles. Press the edges to seal them well. Place the turnovers on a greased baking sheet or one lined with parchment paper.
Bake the turnovers in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until they are puffed and golden brown. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.
For an extra touch, drizzle a simple glaze made from confectioners’ sugar, milk, and a bit of vanilla over the cooled turnovers. These turnovers are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for a couple of days.
2) Chocolate Croissants
Chocolate croissants, also known as pain au chocolat, are delicious and easy to make using puff pastry.
Start by thawing the puff pastry until it’s flexible. Roll it out to make it a bit larger in all directions.
Next, cut the pastry into rectangles or triangles. Place pieces of chocolate in the center of each piece.
Roll the pastry over the chocolate and shape it into a crescent or keep it rectangular. Brush each piece with an egg wash, which is just beaten egg mixed with a little water.
Place the croissants on a baking sheet. Bake them in a preheated oven at around 400°F for about 14-15 minutes.
Once baked, let them cool on a wire rack. You can dust them with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch. Enjoy them warm for the best experience.
3) Raspberry Danish Pastries
Raspberry Danish Pastries are a delightful treat you can easily make at home. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
While the oven is heating, let your puff pastry thaw on the counter for about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, mix softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla in a bowl until smooth.
Once the pastry is thawed, roll it out on a floured surface into a 10.5-inch square. Spread the cream cheese mixture in the center of the pastry, leaving some space around the edges.
Next, add fresh raspberries on top of the cream cheese mixture. Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling. Brush the pastry edges with a beaten egg mixed with a little water to help them brown nicely.
Carefully transfer your pastry to the baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let the pastry cool slightly before serving.
These pastries are best enjoyed fresh, and they make a perfect breakfast or dessert option. Enjoy your homemade Raspberry Danish Pastries!
4) Strawberry Napoleons
Strawberry Napoleons are a delightful pastry dessert perfect for any occasion. They are made using layered puff pastry, fresh strawberries, and a creamy filling.
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (205°C). Unfold the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut it into squares or strips.
Place the pastry pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 13 to 15 minutes until they puff up and turn golden brown.
While the pastry bakes, prepare the filling. A common choice is pastry cream, which is smooth and rich. You can also use whipped cream for a lighter option.
Once the pastry is cool, split each piece in half. Layer your filling and fresh strawberry slices between the pastry halves.
Sprinkle with powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate if desired. Serve immediately for the best texture.
5) Cheese Straws
Cheese straws are a simple yet tasty snack that you can make with puff pastry. They’re perfect for parties or just as a quick treat.
Start by preheating your oven. Roll out your puff pastry dough to about 1/8-inch thick. This makes sure it’s thin enough to become crispy.
Brush the surface of the pastry with an egg wash. This helps the cheese stick and gives the straws a golden color.
Sprinkle a mix of your favorite cheeses over the pastry. Parmesan and Gruyere work well. For extra flavor, add some thyme or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Cut the pastry into thin strips. You can twist them for a fun look. Place the strips on a baking sheet.
Bake the cheese straws until they’re golden and crisp. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
Let them cool a bit before serving. They’re best enjoyed fresh from the oven. You now have delicious cheese straws!
6) Mille-Feuille
Mille-Feuille, also known as Napoleon, is a classic French pastry. It’s made from layers of puff pastry filled with pastry cream. The top is usually iced with a shiny glaze.
To make Mille-Feuille, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out your puff pastry dough into a rectangular shape, about 11×16 inches. Prick the dough with a fork to prevent it from puffing too much.
Bake the puff pastry until it’s golden and crispy. Cool the pastry before cutting each sheet into smaller rectangles. Prepare the pastry cream by whisking together egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and milk.
Spread a layer of pastry cream between each sheet of puff pastry. Stack the layers carefully to keep them aligned. Make a simple glaze using powdered sugar and milk. Pipe this glaze on top of the pastry for that traditional look.
You can use melted chocolate to add decorative lines on the glaze. For this, melt the chocolate and transfer it to a piping bag. Pipe thin lines across the glaze and use a toothpick to create a zigzag pattern.
Once decorated, let the glaze set before serving. This dessert has a delightful mix of flaky pastry and smooth, creamy filling, making it a favorite in many households.
7) Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls
Puff pastry cinnamon rolls are a quick and tasty treat you can whip up anytime. Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Unfold one sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Brush it with melted butter. Sprinkle a mixture of brown sugar and cinnamon evenly over the dough.
Roll the pastry tightly from one end to the other. Cut the roll into equal pieces, about eight. Place these pieces spiral side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake the rolls for 18 to 22 minutes. They’ll be ready when they are golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy your cinnamon rolls warm for the best flavor! These rolls make a delightful breakfast or a sweet snack for any time of day.
8) Palmiers
Palmiers, also known as elephant ears, are a delightful treat made from puff pastry and sugar. They have a simple yet elegant design, and you can prepare them with just two basic ingredients.
To start, roll out your puff pastry on a surface sprinkled with sugar. This keeps the pastry from sticking and adds sweetness.
Next, fold the left and right sides of the pastry towards the center. Fold again, so the two sides meet in the middle. Slice the dough into even pieces, each around half an inch thick.
Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Give them some space to expand as they bake. Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) before putting the cookies in.
Bake the palmiers for about 12 to 14 minutes, or until the edges turn light golden brown. Flip them over and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes, ensuring both sides are evenly cooked and crispy.
For a bit of variety, sprinkle some cinnamon or spices onto the sugar before rolling the dough. This adds a lovely twist to the traditional recipe. Enjoy your palmiers warm or at room temperature.
9) Pear and Almond Galette
A Pear and Almond Galette is a simple yet elegant dessert. Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F. Roll out your puff pastry on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick.
For the filling, prepare pears by mixing them with sugar, flour, cinnamon, ginger, and a bit of lemon juice. This mixture should be well-coated on the pears to enhance the flavor.
Next, spread a mix of almond flour, granulated sugar, and a little all-purpose flour on the center of the rolled-out puff pastry. This creates a cozy bed for the pear filling.
Place the pear mixture on top of the almond mix, leaving a 2-inch border all around. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, creating a rustic look.
Brush the pastry edges with a beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake for about 35-40 minutes until the crust is golden and the pears are tender. Let it cool slightly before serving.
The Pear and Almond Galette is perfect for a cozy fall dessert or a holiday gathering.
10) Puff Pastry Tarts with Lemon Curd and Berries
Puff pastry tarts with lemon curd and berries are a delightful treat for any occasion. The flaky puff pastry creates a perfect base for the tangy lemon curd and sweet, juicy berries.
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Unfold your thawed puff pastry sheets and cut them into rectangles. Place the rectangles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the puff pastry for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. While the pastry cools, prepare the lemon curd. You can make lemon curd by whisking together eggs, egg yolks, lemon juice, and sugar in a double boiler over simmering water.
Once the lemon curd thickens, take it off the heat and stir in butter until smooth. Let it cool to room temperature. In a bowl, mix together fresh or thawed berries with a bit of lemon zest and sugar.
Assemble your tarts by spreading a layer of lemon curd on each piece of puff pastry. Top with the mixed berries. These tarts are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored in the fridge for a short while.
11) Spinach and Cheese Puff Pastry Stars
These Spinach and Cheese Puff Pastry Stars are perfect for an elegant appetizer or snack. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F.
Roll out your puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut the dough into star shapes using a cookie cutter.
In a medium bowl, mix together chopped spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and a pinch of nutmeg.
Spoon a small amount of the spinach and cheese mixture onto the center of each star. Be careful not to overfill.
Whisk an egg with a teaspoon of water to make an egg wash. Brush the edges of the stars with the egg wash.
Bake the stars for about 20 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Use a spatula to carefully remove them from the baking sheet.
Let them cool slightly before serving. These stars are best enjoyed warm but are also tasty at room temperature.
12) Nutella Puff Pastry Twists
Making Nutella Puff Pastry Twists is simple and fun. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Unfold a sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Use a rolling pin to smooth out any creases. Warm Nutella in the microwave for about 15 seconds to make it easier to spread.
Spread a layer of Nutella over the entire puff pastry sheet, leaving a small border around the edges. If you like, you can add thinly sliced bananas on top for extra flavor.
Next, place a second puff pastry sheet over the first one, sandwiching the Nutella in between. Press gently to seal the edges.
Use a pizza cutter to slice the layered pastry into strips about 1.5 inches wide. Twist each strip several times to create a spiral shape.
Place the twists on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 16 minutes or until the twists turn golden brown.
Let them cool slightly before serving. These Nutella Puff Pastry Twists are perfect for a snack or dessert. Enjoy their crispy texture and rich chocolate filling.
13) Puff Pastry Pinwheels with Herbed Cheese
Puff pastry pinwheels with herbed cheese are simple yet tasty. You need just a few ingredients: puff pastry, herbed cream cheese, and Swiss cheese.
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Dust a flat surface with some flour. Unroll the puff pastry and roll it out into a rectangle.
Spread a thin layer of herbed cream cheese over the puff pastry. Leave a 1-inch border around the edges.
Layer Swiss cheese slices over the cream cheese.
Roll the puff pastry tightly from one end to the other, forming a log shape.
Slice the rolled pastry into even pieces, about 1-inch thick. Place these slices on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 15-20 minutes until the pinwheels are golden brown and puffed. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
These pinwheels are perfect for any gathering and are sure to impress your guests with their delicious flavor.
14) Puff Pastry Mushroom Tart
A Puff Pastry Mushroom Tart is a delicious and elegant treat. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper. Use button mushrooms, and slice them about 1/4 inch thick. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add sliced mushrooms and onions to the skillet. Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes until the mushrooms are golden and the onions are soft and translucent. Stir in garlic, soy sauce, and thyme. Continue cooking until the mixture is well combined.
Roll out your puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Transfer the pastry to the prepared baking sheet. Spread the mushroom mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
Make an egg wash by whisking an egg with water. Brush the edges of the pastry with the egg wash. Bake the tart in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the edges are golden brown.
Serve your Puff Pastry Mushroom Tart warm. It’s perfect as an appetizer or a light meal. The combination of buttery pastry and savory mushrooms makes this tart a hit at any gathering.
15) Cherry Pie Bites
Cherry Pie Bites are a delightful and easy dessert to make. You will need crescent roll dough, cherry pie filling, and a standard muffin tin. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Spray the muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate the individual pieces. Place each piece in a muffin tin, ensuring the wider part is at the bottom. Fill each piece generously with cherry pie filling. You can use a spoon to scoop the filling into the dough.
Bake the Cherry Pie Bites in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the dough is golden brown. Let them cool slightly before removing them from the muffin tin. Serve warm or at room temperature. These bites can be a hit at parties or a sweet treat after dinner.
16) Puff Pastry Apple Hand Pies
Puff pastry apple hand pies are a delightful dessert. They are simple to make and taste amazing. You can start by preheating your oven to 400°F.
Prepare your apples by peeling, coring, and slicing them. Mix the apples with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a bit of lemon juice. This adds the sweet and tangy flavor.
Roll out your puff pastry sheets on a floured surface. Cut the dough into equal rectangles. Place the apple mixture in the center of half of these rectangles. Cover each one with another piece of dough.
Seal the edges by pressing them with a fork. Place the pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with an egg wash to give them a nice golden color when baked.
Bake the hand pies for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Let them cool on a wire rack before serving. They are perfect for a dessert or a sweet snack.
17) Blueberry Cream Cheese Pastry
To make a Blueberry Cream Cheese Pastry, start with preheating your oven to 400°F. Then, get your puff pastry ready by thawing it if it is frozen.
For the filling, mix cream cheese with sugar and a bit of lemon juice. This adds a nice tangy flavor. Beat the mixture until it is smooth.
Next, prepare the blueberry filling. Add your blueberries to a saucepan with sugar and a splash of lemon juice. Heat the blueberries on low until they start to burst. Mix some cornstarch with water and add it in to thicken the sauce.
Lay out each sheet of puff pastry. Spread a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture on each piece. Add a generous amount of the blueberry filling on top of the cream cheese.
Fold the puff pastry to enclose the filling. You can cut small slits on the top to let steam escape while baking. Brush the edges with an egg wash for a golden finish.
Place the pastries on a lined baking sheet. Bake for about 12 minutes or until they are golden brown. Let them cool before serving.
You can drizzle some leftover blueberry sauce on top or sprinkle with powdered sugar for an extra touch. These pastries are a delicious and easy treat that you can enjoy any time.
18) Puff Pastry Banana Foster
Puff Pastry Banana Foster is a delicious, easy-to-make dessert that combines the buttery flakiness of puff pastry with the rich flavors of Bananas Foster.
Start by heating your oven to 425°F. Lay out a sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into squares.
In a skillet, melt butter and add brown sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of rum. Cook until the mixture thickens, then add sliced bananas and toss to coat.
Place 1-2 tablespoons of the banana mixture in the center of each puff pastry square. Fold the squares into triangles and crimp the edges with a fork to seal them.
Brush the tops with an egg wash and bake on a prepared baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Let the turnovers cool slightly before serving. The caramelized banana filling pairs perfectly with the crispy, flaky pastry.
This dish is a showstopper that’s sure to impress at any event. Whether for a family gathering or a special celebration, Puff Pastry Banana Foster is a crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity and elegance.
19) Pumpkin Puff Pastry Braid
Pumpkin Puff Pastry Braid is a delightful dessert to make for any fall occasion. You start by preparing the puff pastry. Thaw it and let it come to room temperature. This ensures it’s easy to work with and doesn’t break when you roll it out.
Next, you’ll need to prep the filling. Combine pumpkin puree with your favorite pumpkin pie spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Mix it well so the spices are evenly distributed. Adding a bit of brown sugar enhances the pumpkin’s natural sweetness.
Carefully unfold the puff pastry on parchment paper. Spread a layer of cream cheese down the center, followed by your pumpkin mixture. This combination of creamy and spicy makes each bite deliciously rich.
Using a knife or pizza cutter, make 1-inch cuts along each side of the pastry. Fold these strips over the filling to create a braid pattern. This not only looks impressive but also helps the filling stay in place during baking.
Before placing it in the oven, brush the top with an egg wash. This gives the braid a beautiful golden color and a slight crispiness. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F and bake until golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
20) Puff Pastry Sausage Rolls
Puff pastry sausage rolls are a savory treat that combines flaky pastry with flavorful sausage meat. You can easily make them at home.
Start by preheating your oven to about 200°C (390°F). Roll out your puff pastry on a floured surface to about a 0.25-inch thickness. You can also use a sheet of ready-rolled puff pastry if you prefer.
Next, prepare the sausage filling. You will need about 450 grams of sausage meat. If you’re using whole sausages, remove the skins. You can enhance the filling by adding finely chopped onions, breadcrumbs, and herbs like sage or thyme.
Once your filling is ready, cut the puff pastry sheet in half lengthways. Place the sausage meat down the center of each strip. Roll the pastry over the meat to form a log, and seal the edges by pressing them down.
Cut the rolls into smaller pieces, around 6 to 8 per log. Place them seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make a small slit on the top of each roll using a sharp knife. This helps them vent while baking.
Beat an egg and brush it over the rolls to give them a golden, crispy finish. Bake in your preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes until they are puffed and golden brown. Enjoy your homemade puff pastry sausage rolls warm or cold.
21) Peach Bellini Puff Pastry
For this delightful treat, you only need a few ingredients: puff pastry sheets, fresh peaches, prosecco, sugar, and lemon juice.
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Follow the directions to thaw your puff pastry sheets. Once thawed, roll them out on parchment paper.
Slice your peaches into thin wedges. In a bowl, combine prosecco, a tablespoon of sugar, and a teaspoon of lemon juice. Toss the peach slices in this mixture.
Arrange the peach slices on the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges. This border will allow the pastry to puff up nicely. Sprinkle a bit more sugar over the top if you like.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the puff pastry is golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving. This elegant dessert pairs well with a glass of peach bellini for a complete experience.
22) Pecan Apple Puff Pastry Ring
Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a baking sheet. Start with thawed puff pastry. Roll it out into a rectangle about 15×10 inches.
In a bowl, mix brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Add sliced apples and chopped pecans to the mixture and toss them to coat well.
Place the apple mixture on the long side of the pastry, leaving a small border. Carefully roll up the pastry, starting with the apple mixture side.
Once rolled, shape it into a ring and press the ends together to seal. Brush the top with beaten egg to get a golden finish.
Bake for about 25-30 minutes until the pastry is golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your pecan apple puff pastry ring as a delightful dessert.
Nutritional Aspects of Puff Pastry Desserts
Understanding the nutritional aspects of puff pastry desserts can help you make informed choices. This section covers the caloric content and common ingredients found in these treats.
Caloric Content
Puff pastry desserts are often high in calories. A small serving can contain 200-300 calories depending on the specific dessert and its size.
For example, apple turnovers can range from 250 to 300 calories each. This is due mainly to the butter and sugar used in the pastry and filling.
If you’re watching your caloric intake, enjoying these desserts in moderation can be beneficial. It’s also useful to be aware of portion sizes to help manage calorie consumption.
Common Ingredients
Puff pastry desserts typically have several common ingredients that contribute to their flavor and texture. These include:
- Butter: Provides richness and flakiness to the pastry.
- Flour: The base of the pastry, usually all-purpose flour.
- Sugar: Adds sweetness to the dessert, often found in both the dough and filling.
- Eggs: Used for binding and giving a golden brown color.
- Milk or cream: Sometimes included in the dough or fillings for added moisture.
Marshmallow fluff, nuts, and powdered sugar are also often used in specific recipes like Lazy Cream Horns and Sweet Almond Twists. These ingredients not only add flavor but also increase the calorie count.
By understanding these ingredients, you can better grasp the nutritional profile of the puff pastry desserts you enjoy.
Techniques for Making Perfect Puff Pastry
To achieve perfect puff pastry, focus on the methods of layering and folding, and consider important baking tips to get the best results.
Layering and Folding
Layering and folding are the heart of making puff pastry. Start with cold ingredients. Cold butter and cold water are crucial because they help create the flaky texture.
Use a rolling pin to roll out the dough on a floured surface. Place a layer of butter on the dough, then fold it over like a letter. This process is called laminating.
Repeat the rolling and folding steps several times. Each fold creates more layers. Be gentle and avoid overworking the dough to keep it from becoming tough. Between folds, chill the dough in the refrigerator to keep the butter from melting.
Baking Tips
Preheat the oven before baking your puff pastry. A high temperature, such as 400°F (200°C), helps the layers rise quickly, making the pastry flaky.
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When placing the pastry on the sheet, consider brushing an egg wash on top. This gives the pastry a golden, glossy finish.
Be careful not to open the oven door during the first 15 minutes of baking. This can cause the pastry to deflate. Keep an eye on the pastry through the oven window to ensure it’s browning evenly.
Ensure proper cooling after baking. Let the puff pastry cool on a wire rack to maintain its crispness.
Flavor Profiles and Variations
Puff pastry desserts offer a diverse range of flavors and can be crafted into both sweet and savory dishes by changing fillings and toppings. You’ll learn about the differences between these two types and how to pair puff pastry with various ingredients.
Sweet Versus Savory
Sweet puff pastry desserts usually have fillings like fruits, creams, and sugars. Examples include apple pies, cream horns, and mille-feuille. The flavors can range from fruity and tangy to rich and creamy. You often bake these at higher temperatures to caramelize the sugars and achieve a golden crust.
Savory puff pastry dishes use ingredients like cheese, meats, and vegetables. Common choices are mini-tarts with cheese or puff pastry filled with spinach and feta. They might include herbs and spices like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor profile. These are also baked until golden brown, but the fillings provide the primary taste sensations.
Pairing with Other Ingredients
When pairing puff pastry with other ingredients, consider both texture and flavor. For sweet dishes, mixing puff pastry with soft fruits like strawberries or raspberries offers a pleasing contrast. Adding creams or custards enhances richness. For a twist, sprinkle with cocoa powder or cinnamon for extra flavor.
In savory recipes, you might combine puff pastry with goat cheese or blue cheese for a robust flavor. Additional fillings like mushrooms or caramelized onions can add depth. Using a variety of herbs and spices will elevate simple ingredients into gourmet dishes. Remember to experiment with different combinations to discover your favorite pairings.
