Short Description

Crisp, buttery puff pastry layered with sweet vanilla cream and fresh strawberries, then dusted with powdered sugar and topped with heart-shaped berries — a delicate and romantic dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This strawberry cream mille-feuille is a showstopping dessert that is surprisingly easy to assemble. The lightness of the whipped vanilla cream pairs perfectly with the juicy freshness of strawberries, all encased between golden, flaky layers of puff pastry. It’s an elegant yet approachable pastry, ideal for dinner parties, romantic occasions, or whenever you want to impress with minimal effort. With each bite, you get crunch, creaminess, and fruit — a harmony of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/3 cup powdered sugar (plus more for dusting)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup mascarpone or cream cheese (optional, for stability)
• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, thinly sliced
• Extra strawberries for topping

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Slightly roll out the puff pastry and cut it into 9 equal rectangles. Use a fork to prick the surface of each piece to prevent excessive puffing.
3. Arrange the pastry pieces on the prepared baking sheet. Cover with another layer of parchment paper and place a second baking tray on top to weigh them down.
4. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Remove and let cool completely.
5. In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
6. If desired, gently fold in mascarpone or cream cheese to create a firmer, more stable filling.
7. Assemble the mille-feuille by spreading a layer of cream on one piece of puff pastry. Top with sliced strawberries.
8. Repeat with another pastry layer, more cream, and additional strawberries. Finish with a final pastry layer.
9. Dust the top with powdered sugar and garnish with sliced strawberries (cut into hearts if desired).
10. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 1 hour to allow the layers to set.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 3 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories per Serving: 320 kcal

Variations

• Mixed Berry Mille-Feuille: Use a combination of raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries alongside strawberries.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Add a light drizzle of melted dark or white chocolate over the top for a decorative touch.
• Pastry Cream Option: Substitute whipped cream with classic vanilla pastry cream for a more traditional French version.
• Lemon Cream: Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest and a splash of lemon juice to the cream for a citrus twist.
• Mini Mille-Feuille: Cut the puff pastry into smaller pieces and assemble as individual bite-sized portions for parties.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Best enjoyed fresh. If needed, store assembled mille-feuille in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours in an airtight container. The pastry may soften over time.
Make-Ahead Tips: You can bake the puff pastry layers in advance and store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Assemble just before serving for optimal texture.
Reheating: Not recommended once assembled, as the cream and berries will not tolerate heat.

FAQs

What is mille-feuille?

Mille-feuille, also known as Napoleon, is a classic French dessert made with layers of puff pastry and cream, often topped with powdered sugar or icing.

Can I use store-bought puff pastry?

Yes, store-bought puff pastry works perfectly and saves time. Just ensure it is fully thawed before using.

Why is my puff pastry too puffy or uneven?

To keep the pastry flat, prick it with a fork and weigh it down with a second baking tray during baking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the cream and puff pastry layers ahead, but it’s best to assemble the dessert just before serving to keep it crisp.

What type of cream is best for the filling?

Heavy whipping cream is ideal. Mascarpone or cream cheese can be added to stabilize and enrich the filling.

How do I cut clean slices without the layers sliding?

Use a serrated knife and gently saw through the layers. Chilling the assembled mille-feuille briefly also helps keep it stable.

Can I add flavor to the cream?

Yes, you can add vanilla bean paste, almond extract, or citrus zest to the cream for additional flavor.

Is mascarpone required in the recipe?

No, it’s optional. It adds richness and structure, especially helpful if you plan to refrigerate before serving.

What other fruits can I use?

Peaches, raspberries, kiwi, or blueberries make excellent additions or substitutions depending on the season.

How do I make heart-shaped strawberries?

Slice a strawberry vertically, then carve a small V-shape out of the top to form a heart. It’s an easy yet beautiful garnish.

Conclusion

Strawberry cream mille-feuille is a stunning dessert that combines elegance with simplicity. With crisp pastry, luscious cream, and fresh fruit, each layer delivers contrast and harmony. Whether you’re preparing it for a romantic dinner, an afternoon tea, or a special celebration, this mille-feuille promises to delight both the eye and the palate.

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