If you’re on the hunt for an eye-catching, mouth-watering dessert, look no further than cream and berry-filled pastry balls. These delightful treats combine the sweet and tangy flavor of fresh berries with the smooth creaminess of mascarpone or cream cheese, wrapped in a golden pastry shell. Perfect for parties, brunch, or as an after-dinner dessert, these pastry balls are sure to impress!
In this guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of creating this irresistible dessert and suggest some variations and internal links to other delicious recipes to explore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delectable cream and berry-filled pastry balls:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry or choux pastry
- 8 oz of mascarpone, cream cheese, or whipped cream
- 1 cup of fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Optional: white chocolate for drizzling or sprinkles for decoration
For more light and airy puffed textures, you can also check out our Air Fryer Onion Rings, a perfect crunchy side for any gathering!
Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Cream and Berry-Filled Pastry Balls
- Prepare the Pastry
Roll out your puff pastry or pipe choux pastry onto a lined baking sheet. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake until the pastry turns golden and crispy. - Make the Berry Compote
While the pastry is baking, cook fresh berries with a little sugar and lemon juice over medium heat until they break down into a thick compote. Let it cool completely before using. - Prepare the Cream Filling
In a bowl, mix mascarpone or cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. You can also use whipped cream for a lighter option. For a step-by-step guide on making cream fillings, check out Whipped Cream vs. Mascarpone: What’s the Difference?. - Assemble the Pastry Balls
Once the pastry is cool, cut a small hole into each ball and fill it with the cream mixture. Add a spoonful of the berry compote and seal the pastry gently. - Decorate and Serve
Drizzle the pastry balls with melted white chocolate or roll them in sprinkles for an extra festive touch. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also explore our Southern Fried Chicken, which pairs perfectly with these sweet pastry balls for a balanced meal.
Creative Variations to Try
There are endless ways to customize cream and berry-filled pastry balls. Here are some fun variations:
- Lemon Zest Cream Filling: Add lemon zest to the cream for a tangy twist.
- Different Fruits: Substitute the berries with peaches, blackberries, or cherries.
- Liquor-Infused Filling: Add a splash of Grand Marnier or berry liqueur for an adult twist.
- Choux Pastry Option: Use choux pastry instead of puff for a lighter, airier texture.
Nutritional Information and Healthier Alternatives
Each pastry ball typically contains around 150-200 calories, depending on the ingredients. To make a lighter version:
- Substitute low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt for mascarpone.
- Use natural sweeteners like stevia instead of powdered sugar.
- Opt for baking instead of frying to reduce fat content.
Tips for Perfect Pastry Balls
- Avoid Overworking the Dough: Handle the pastry as little as possible to maintain its flaky texture.
- Cool Pastry Before Filling: Ensure the pastry is fully cooled before adding the cream to prevent it from melting.
- Prevent Sogginess: Use a thick berry compote to avoid making the pastry soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I freeze cream and berry-filled pastry balls?
Yes! Assemble the pastry balls and freeze them on a tray before storing in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven to enjoy them fresh.
Which dough works best?
Both puff pastry and choux pastry work well for this recipe. Puff pastry provides a crispier texture, while choux pastry is light and airy.
How long can these be stored?
These pastry balls are best eaten fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
Can these be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free puff pastry or make gluten-free choux pastry using a blend of gluten-free flours.
What other fillings can I use?
Try filling the pastry balls with custard, chocolate ganache, or a citrus curd for a unique twist.
Conclusion
Cream and berry-filled pastry balls are a show-stopping dessert that blends the sweetness of fresh berries with the richness of cream, all enveloped in a crisp, golden pastry. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to impress at a party or just a delightful snack, these pastry balls are sure to please.
Feel free to experiment with the ingredients and explore our other delectable recipes like Southern Fried Chicken and Air Fryer Onion Rings to round out your meal!
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Cream and Berry-Filled Pastry Balls | Easy Dessert Recipe
Description
Delight in these easy-to-make cream and berry-filled pastry balls, perfect for any occasion. Sweet, creamy, and delicious!
Ingredients
- 2 sheets of thawed puff pastry
- 1 cup of mixed berries (e.g., blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)
- 1/2 cup softened cream cheese
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 beaten egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the filling: In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Adjust sweetness by adding more powdered sugar if desired.
- Prepare the berries: Wash and dry the berries. Dice strawberries if using them and slightly mash some berries to release juices for a jam-like filling.
- Roll the puff pastry: On a floured surface, gently roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets. Cut each sheet into 9 squares, making a total of 18 squares.
- Fill the pastry: Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each square and top with a few berries. Be careful not to overfill.
- Form the pastry balls: Pinch together the four corners of each pastry square to form a ball, sealing the edges to prevent filling from leaking during baking.
- Brush with egg wash: Brush each pastry ball with the beaten egg for a shiny, golden finish. Optionally, sprinkle with granulated sugar for extra sweetness.
- Bake: Place the pastry balls seam-side down on the baking sheet. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up.
- Cool and serve: Let the pastry balls cool slightly on the baking sheet before dusting with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Notes
Tips:
- Customize your berries: Use a variety of berries for a tangy-sweet filling. Frozen berries can be used, but ensure they are thawed and drained before adding.
- Experiment with fillings: Try using Nutella, lemon curd, or chopped almonds for different flavors.
- Work with chilled puff pastry: Keep puff pastry chilled before using to achieve the best flaky texture.
- Seal carefully: Ensure all edges are pinched tightly to prevent any leaks during baking.
Enjoy these delightful cream and berry-filled pastry balls as a treat for any occasion!
Looks great.