why make this recipe
These Flaky Star-Spangled Puff Pastry Squares are perfect for summer gatherings or festive occasions. With their beautiful presentation and delightful creamy filling, they bring a touch of elegance to any dessert table. The combination of flaky pastry and fresh summer berries makes them refreshing and satisfying. Plus, they are easy to make, allowing you to impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen!
how to make Flaky Star-Spangled Puff Pastry Squares with Creamy Vanilla Filling & Summer Berries
Ingredients:
- 1–2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- 1 cup cold heavy cream
- 3 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: 2 tbsp mascarpone or cream cheese
- Fresh strawberries, sliced
- Blueberries
- Raspberries
- Optional: honey or berry glaze for shine
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Cut the puff pastry into equal squares. Place them on a parchment-lined tray and prick them lightly with a fork. Bake for 15–18 minutes until they are puffed and golden. Let them cool completely. If they are very puffy, gently split them horizontally.
- Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. If you want a firmer cream, fold in mascarpone or cream cheese at this step.
- Spoon or pipe the vanilla cream onto the cooled pastry squares. Top them generously with mixed berries. If you like, drizzle lightly with honey or brush with berry glaze for an extra shine. Dust with powdered sugar just before serving.
how to serve Flaky Star-Spangled Puff Pastry Squares
Serve these delicious squares chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor. They make a lovely dessert for barbecue parties, picnics, or holiday celebrations. Consider garnishing with a bit more fresh berries on the side for added color and freshness.
how to store Flaky Star-Spangled Puff Pastry Squares
To store these puff pastry squares, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days. However, the pastry may lose some of its flakiness over time. It’s best to assemble them right before serving for the best taste and texture.
tips to make Flaky Star-Spangled Puff Pastry Squares
- Make sure the cream is very cold before whipping for better volume.
- If using store-bought puff pastry, follow the package instructions for thawing.
- You can add other fruits like peaches or kiwi for variation.
- Always dust with powdered sugar just before serving to prevent it from soaking into the cream.
variation
You can customize the berries based on what’s in season or your personal preference. Also, experimenting with different flavored extracts, like almond or coconut, can give a unique twist to the vanilla cream filling.
FAQs
1. Can I make the cream filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can whip the cream filling and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just give it a quick stir before using it.
2. What can I do with leftover puff pastry?
You can cut and bake the leftover puff pastry in different shapes and sprinkle them with cinnamon sugar for a sweet treat.
3. Can I freeze these puff pastry squares?
While it’s not ideal for the best texture, you can freeze the baked squares without filling. Just thaw and add the filling and berries when you are ready to serve.
Print
Flaky Star-Spangled Puff Pastry Squares
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Beautiful and delicious puff pastry squares filled with creamy vanilla and topped with fresh summer berries.
Ingredients
- 1–2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- 1 cup cold heavy cream
- 3 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: 2 tbsp mascarpone or cream cheese
- Fresh strawberries, sliced
- Blueberries
- Raspberries
- Optional: honey or berry glaze for shine
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Cut the puff pastry into equal squares. Place them on a parchment-lined tray and prick them lightly with a fork. Bake for 15–18 minutes until they are puffed and golden. Let them cool completely. If they are very puffy, gently split them horizontally.
- Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. If you want a firmer cream, fold in mascarpone or cream cheese at this step.
- Spoon or pipe the vanilla cream onto the cooled pastry squares. Top them generously with mixed berries. If you like, drizzle lightly with honey or brush with berry glaze for an extra shine. Dust with powdered sugar just before serving.
Notes
Best served chilled or at room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: puff pastry, dessert, summer berries, creamy filling, easy recipe