Looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat? These Cream and Berry-Filled Pastry Balls are the answer! With their golden, flaky exterior, creamy filling, and bursts of juicy berries, these bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, holidays, or just satisfying your sweet tooth. Whether you’re a baking pro or a beginner, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive in and create these sweet delights!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bite-Sized Perfection: Perfect for sharing or enjoying solo.
- Creamy & Fruity: A delicious combination of smooth cream and fresh berries.
- Easy to Make: Uses store-bought puff pastry for convenience.
- Versatile: Great for any occasion, from brunch to dessert tables.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make these irresistible pastry balls (makes about 24):
- 1 package (17.3 oz) puff pastry sheets (2 sheets), thawed: The base of your pastry balls.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Whipped to soft peaks for the filling.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream filling.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds flavor to the cream.
- 1 cup fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or a mix): For a juicy, fruity surprise.
- 1 egg (for egg wash): Helps the pastry brown beautifully.
- Powdered sugar (for dusting): For a sweet, elegant finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Puff Pastry
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut each sheet into 12 equal squares (24 squares total).
2. Make the Cream Filling
- In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
3. Assemble the Pastry Balls
- Place a small dollop of whipped cream in the center of each puff pastry square.
- Add a few fresh berries on top of the cream.
- Gently gather the corners of the pastry square and pinch them together to seal, forming a ball.
4. Bake to Perfection
- Place the pastry balls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush each ball with egg wash for a golden, shiny finish.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
5. Finish and Serve
- Let the pastry balls cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar.
- Serve warm or at room temperature and watch them disappear!
Tips for Success
- Use Cold Pastry: Work with chilled puff pastry for easier handling.
- Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can cause the pastry to burst open.
- Customize the Filling: Swap berries for chocolate chips, Nutella, or lemon curd.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the pastry balls ahead of time and bake just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These pastry balls are perfect for:
- Brunch: Pair with coffee or tea for a sweet start to the day.
- Dessert Tables: Add them to your spread for a bite-sized treat.
- Holiday Gatherings: Dust with edible glitter for a festive touch.
- Afternoon Snacks: Enjoy with a glass of milk or a fruit smoothie.
Final Thoughts
These Cream and Berry-Filled Pastry Balls are a delightful treat that’s sure to impress everyone who tries them. They’re easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Give them a try and let me know how they turn out in the comments below!