These Cream-Filled Pastry Bites are a delightful treat that combines flaky, buttery dough with a rich, smooth cream filling. The result is an irresistible bite-sized pastry that’s perfect for any occasion. With a deliciously creamy center and golden, puffed dough, these pastry bites will leave you craving more. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying tea time, or simply indulging in a sweet snack, these pastries are sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 300 ml milk
- 2 egg yolks
- 30 g starch (cornstarch or potato starch)
- 70 g sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract or 1 tsp vanilla sugar
For the Dough:
- 1 small egg
- 30 g sour cream
- 50 g sugar
- 100 g butter (cold, cubed)
- 280 g all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- A pinch of salt
Additional:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Filling
Heat the Milk: Pour the milk into a small saucepan and heat it over medium heat until it starts to steam. Be sure not to let it boil.
Mix the Yolks, Starch, and Sugar: While the milk is heating, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and starch in a separate bowl until the mixture becomes smooth and pale in color.
Temper the Egg Mixture: Once the milk is hot, slowly pour about half of it into the yolk mixture while whisking continuously. This process, known as tempering, prevents the eggs from scrambling.
Thicken the Filling: Return the tempered yolk mixture to the saucepan with the remaining milk. Continue to cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens into a smooth, pudding-like consistency. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
Add Vanilla: Once the mixture has thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract or vanilla sugar. Allow the filling to cool completely before using it to fill the pastry. You can cover the filling with plastic wrap pressed directly onto its surface to prevent a skin from forming.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, sour cream, and sugar until smooth. Pour this wet mixture into the flour and butter mixture.
Form the Dough: Mix until a soft dough forms. You can use your hands to bring the dough together gently. Be careful not to overwork the dough. If it feels too sticky, add a bit more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.
Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes. This will make it easier to roll out.
Step 3: Assemble the Pastries
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has chilled, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thickness. Use a round cookie cutter or a glass to cut out circles of dough.
Fill the Pastries: Place a small spoonful of the cooled cream filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, and press the edges together to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
Bake the Pastries: Place the filled pastries on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed. The exact baking time will depend on your oven, so be sure to keep an eye on them after the 20-minute mark.
Cool and Dust: Once baked, remove the pastries from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – Approximate):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 12g
- Calcium: 8% of daily value
- Iron: 5% of daily value
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. After chilling it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.
Can I use a different filling?
Yes, you can substitute the cream filling with a variety of fillings, such as fruit preserves, chocolate ganache, or even a custard made with different flavors like lemon or chocolate.
Can I freeze the pastries?
Yes, these pastries freeze well. After baking and cooling, store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature and dust with powdered sugar just before serving.
Can I make these pastries without sour cream?
If you don’t have sour cream, you can replace it with plain yogurt or even buttermilk. Both options will still produce a tender and flaky pastry.
Conclusion
Cream-Filled Pastry Bites are a perfect combination of crispy, flaky dough and a smooth, sweet cream filling. The simplicity of the ingredients and the technique make them an approachable yet indulgent treat. These little pastries are ideal for a variety of occasions, whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea. With the flexibility to experiment with different fillings, you can tailor these pastry bites to suit your tastes.