Cream and berry-filled pastry balls are a delectable treat combining a buttery, flaky pastry shell with a luscious cream and berry filling. These bite-sized desserts are versatile, perfect for any occasion, and easy to make with a little practice.
For a unique savory option, you might enjoy Alfredo Chicken Wings: A Creamy and Savory Delight, which pairs creamy Alfredo sauce with crispy chicken wings.
The Allure of Cream and Berry-Filled Pastry Balls
What makes these pastry balls special is their ability to be customized with seasonal berries and alternative fillings, making them a year-round favorite. These sweet treats can easily elevate your dessert table, just as Sunday Sauce with Meatballs and Sausage does for Italian-inspired main courses.
Ingredients
the Pastry:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2-3 tablespoons cold water
the Cream Filling:
- 1 cup heavy whipped cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
the Berry Filling:
- 1 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
For Garnish:
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh mint leaves
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pastry Dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour and sugar.
- Add chilled butter and mix until crumbly.
- Mix in the egg yolk and water, adding water one teaspoon at a time until the dough forms.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.
2. Create the Berry Filling
- Combine berries, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch in a saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens.
- Allow to cool completely before use.
3. Whip the Cream Filling
- In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.
4. Assemble the Pastry Balls
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Roll out the dough to ⅛-inch thickness and cut into 2-inch squares or circles.
- Place a small spoonful of berry and cream fillings in the center of each piece.
- Fold and seal the edges to form balls.
5. Bake and Serve
- Arrange pastry balls on the tray and bake for 15 minutes, or until golden.
- Cool completely, dust with powdered sugar, and garnish with mint leaves.
Tips for Success
- Keep Butter Cold: Chilled butter is essential for a flaky pastry.
- Work Quickly: Handle the dough minimally to avoid it becoming tough.
- Cool Fillings: Ensure both the cream and berry fillings are cooled to prevent melting the dough.
Variations and Ideas
- Replace berries with seasonal fruits like peaches or apples.
- Use dairy-free whipped cream for a vegan option.
- Add a drizzle of chocolate for extra indulgence.
FAQs
Can I use pre-made pastry dough?
Yes, pre-made puff pastry works wonderfully and saves time.
How long can I store these pastries?
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Can I freeze them?
Yes, freeze unbaked pastry balls and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Conclusion
Cream and berry-filled pastry balls are a versatile and indulgent dessert that’s easy to adapt for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or treating yourself, these delightful pastries will impress. For more delicious inspirations, explore Kynall Recipes for savory and sweet creations alike!
Cream and Berry-Filled Pastry Balls: A Perfect Bite-Sized Delight
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Pastry:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2–3 tablespoons cold water
For the Cream Filling:
- 1 cup heavy whipped cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Berry Filling:
- 1 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
For Garnish:
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh mint leaves
Instructions
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pastry Dough
- Combine flour and sugar in a mixing bowl.
- Add chilled butter and mix with a pastry cutter or fingers until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Mix in the egg yolk and cold water (one teaspoon at a time) until the dough forms a ball.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Make the Berry Filling
- In a saucepan, combine berries, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
- Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
3. Whip the Cream Filling
- In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, whipping until stiff peaks form.
4. Assemble the Pastry Balls
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Roll out the chilled dough to about ⅛-inch thickness on a floured surface.
- Cut the dough into 2-inch squares or circles.
- Place a small spoonful of berry filling and cream filling in the center of each dough piece.
- Fold the edges of the dough and seal to form balls.
5. Bake and Serve
- Arrange the pastry balls on the prepared baking tray.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar and garnishing with mint leaves.
Enjoy your cream and berry-filled pastry balls—a perfect bite-sized dessert!