Print

Strawberry Napoleon Pastry

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Strawberry Napoleon Pastry is an elegant dessert featuring crisp, buttery puff pastry layered with silky vanilla pastry cream and fresh strawberries. This classic French-inspired treat delivers the perfect balance of flaky, creamy, and fruity flavors for any special occasion.

Ingredients

  • 2 puff pastry sheets
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, for sprinkling)
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 egg yolks
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup whipped cream (optional)
  • Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cut the puff pastry into equal rectangles, brush with egg wash, and sprinkle lightly with granulated sugar if desired.
  3. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown and flaky, then cool completely.
  4. Heat the milk in a saucepan until just beginning to simmer.
  5. Whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and salt until smooth.
  6. Gradually whisk the hot milk into the egg mixture, then return everything to the saucepan.
  7. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened. Remove from the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla.
  8. Cover and chill the pastry cream completely.
  9. Spread or pipe pastry cream onto one pastry layer, arrange sliced strawberries on top, and repeat the layers as desired.
  10. Finish with a final pastry layer, dust generously with powdered sugar, and garnish with additional strawberries, whipped cream, and fresh mint if desired.

Notes

  • Substitute raspberries, blueberries, or mixed berries for the strawberries.
  • Use mascarpone cream instead of pastry cream for a richer filling.
  • Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the finished pastry.
  • Add a thin layer of strawberry jam beneath the pastry cream for extra fruit flavor.
  • Flavor the pastry cream with lemon zest for a bright citrus twist.
  • Assemble just before serving to keep the pastry crisp.
  • Store assembled pastries in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, though they are best enjoyed the day they are assembled.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/strawberry-napoleon-pastry/