Custard-Filled Pastries Recipe

Description:

These Custard-Filled Pastries are flaky, buttery, and filled with a rich, creamy custard. They make a perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. The contrast between the crisp pastry shell and the smooth vanilla custard inside is irresistible. These pastries can be made with puff pastry for ease or homemade dough for a traditional touch.

Ingredients:

For the Pastry:

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (or homemade pastry dough)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar (for sprinkling)

For the Custard Filling:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 egg yolks
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Custard

1. In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it starts to steam but not boil.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks until smooth.
3. Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking continuously to temper the eggs.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens (about 3-5 minutes).
5. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract and butter, then let it cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Pastries

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut it into squares or circles.
3. Place a spoonful of custard in the center of each pastry piece.
4. Fold the pastry over to form a triangle, rectangle, or round shape. Press edges to seal using a fork.
5. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with sugar for a golden finish.

Step 3: Bake the Pastries

1. Arrange pastries on a lined baking sheet and bake for 18-22 minutes or until golden brown.
2. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Notes & Tips:

✅ Make-Ahead: The custard can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.
✅ Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or citrus zest to the custard.
✅ Alternative Dough: Instead of puff pastry, you can use choux pastry for a cream puff-like texture.
✅ Storage: Store pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Servings & Nutrition:

🔹 Servings: 6 pastries
🔹 Calories per pastry: ~250-300 kcal
🔹 Protein: ~5g
🔹 Carbs: ~35g
🔹 Fats: ~12g
🔹 Sugars: ~15g

Health Benefits:

🥛 Dairy-rich custard provides calcium for strong bones.
🍳 Egg yolks contain essential vitamins like B12 and choline.
🥐 Puff pastry in moderation provides energy from carbohydrates.
💛 Homemade custard is free from artificial preservatives.

Q&A:

❓ Can I use store-bought custard?
Yes! If you’re short on time, store-bought custard works fine, but homemade custard has a richer taste.

❓ Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use almond or oat milk, and swap butter for plant-based alternatives.

❓ Why did my custard turn out lumpy?
This happens if the heat is too high or the eggs cook too quickly. Always stir constantly over low heat.

❓ Can I freeze these pastries?
Yes, but freeze them before baking for best results. Bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for a few extra minutes.

Would you like any variations or additions to this recipe? 😊