Lemon Cream Pastry Delights

 

Lemon Cream Pastry Delights

Ingredients

Puff Pastry – 1 rectangular sheet

Milk – 400 ml (about 2 cups)

Egg Yolks – 4 large yolks

Lemon Zest – Zest of 1 fresh lemon

Sugar – 90 g (about ⅓ cup)

Cornstarch – 30 g (2 tablespoons)

Whipping Cream – 200 ml (1 cup), sweetened

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.

Shape the Pastry – Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut into evenly sized squares or rectangles.

Bake to Perfection – Arrange the pastry pieces on the tray and bake for 10–15 minutes, or until they’re puffed, crisp, and golden brown.

Cool Completely – Transfer to a wire rack to cool — this prevents sogginess and keeps them flaky.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Cream Filling

Infuse the Milk – In a saucepan, heat the milk with lemon zest until it begins to gently simmer. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes to absorb the citrus aroma.

Whisk the Base – In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and sugar until pale and creamy. Add cornstarch and whisk again until smooth and lump-free.

Combine and Thicken – Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the yolks. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until thick, smooth, and silky. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.

Whip the Cream – Beat the whipping cream until soft peaks form. Sweeten to taste if using unsweetened cream.

Fold Together – Gently fold the whipped cream into the cooled custard using a spatula. Mix just until airy, light, and well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Pastries

Slice the Pastry – Carefully cut each puff pastry in half horizontally using a serrated knife.

Fill Generously – Spoon or pipe the lemon cream onto the bottom layer, spreading evenly.

Finish with Elegance – Place the top pastry layer back on and dust lightly with powdered sugar for a classic bakery-style touch.

Serving Suggestions

Temperature: Serve slightly warm for a soft, melt-in-mouth texture, or chilled for a firmer, custard-like bite.

Garnish: Top with fresh lemon zest, mint leaves, or a delicate swirl of whipped cream.

Pairing Ideas: Pair beautifully with tea, espresso, or a drizzle of raspberry or passion fruit coulis.

Occasions: Perfect for brunches, dessert tables, or elegant tea parties.

Tips & Variations

Keep Pastry Cold: Always bake puff pastry straight from the fridge for the best rise and crispness.

Zest Wisely: Use only the yellow part of the lemon skin — the white pith adds bitterness.

Smooth Custard: Strain the lemon cream after cooking if you notice any lumps.

Balance the Flavor: Taste and adjust sugar before folding in whipped cream for a perfect balance of tart and sweet.

Creative Twists: Try lime or orange zest for a citrusy variation, or add a hint of vanilla for warmth and depth.