Italian Cream Puff Pastry (Millefoglie alla Crema)

. Italian Cream Puff Pastry (Millefoglie alla Crema)

Prep Time:

45 minutes

Cook Time:

30 minutes

Chill Time:

1 hour

🍽️ Servings:

8–10 slices

Ingredients**

For the Puff Pastry Layers:

• 2 sheets puff pastry (store-bought or homemade), thawed
• 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for dusting before baking)
• 1 egg (for brushing, optional)

For the Italian Pastry Cream (Crema Pasticcera):

• 2 cups (500 ml) whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or 1 vanilla bean
• 5 large egg yolks
• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (30 g) cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons (30 g) unsalted butter

For Whipped Cream (to lighten the pastry cream):

• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, cold
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

For Assembly:

• Powdered sugar for dusting
• Optional: fresh berries or chopped nuts for garnish

Instructions**

Step 1: Bake the Puff Pastry Layers

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and place each puff pastry sheet on one.
3. Prick the pastry all over with a fork to prevent it from puffing unevenly.
4. Lightly dust the surface with powdered sugar and, if desired, brush with beaten egg for a golden finish.
5. Bake for 15–20 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Once baked, let them cool completely, then trim the edges with a sharp knife to make even rectangles.

Step 2: Make the Italian Pastry Cream (Crema Pasticcera)

1. In a saucepan, heat milk and vanilla until hot but not boiling.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and sugar until pale and creamy.
3. Add cornstarch, whisking until smooth and lump-free.
4. Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
5. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until thickened (about 3–4 minutes).
6. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until smooth and glossy.
7. Pour into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (pressing it onto the surface), and chill for at least 1 hour.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

1. In a cold bowl, whip heavy cream and powdered sugar together until stiff peaks form.
2. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cooled pastry cream to create a light, airy Diplomat Cream.

Step 4: Assemble the Italian Cream Puff Pastry

1. Place one baked puff pastry sheet on a serving plate.
2. Spread half of the Diplomat Cream evenly over the pastry.
3. Add the second puff pastry layer on top and spread the remaining cream.
4. Top with the final pastry sheet.
5. Dust generously with powdered sugar.
6. Refrigerate for 1–2 hours to set before slicing.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Slice gently using a sharp serrated knife.
Serve chilled with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a few fresh berries for a beautiful touch.

🌸 Tips for Perfection

• For extra crunch, bake the pastry between two sheets of parchment paper with another baking tray on top (it keeps the pastry flat).
• The pastry cream can be flavored with lemon zest, espresso, or liqueur (like Limoncello or Amaretto) for an Italian twist.
• To make it extra indulgent, add a layer of Nutella or raspberry jam between the cream and pastry layers.

History & Tradition**

The Italian Cream Puff Pastry, or Millefoglie alla Crema, has its roots in the classic French mille-feuille (“a thousand leaves”) but gained its own Italian charm through the use of lighter, richer pastry creams and a touch of whipped cream. It’s a beloved dessert often served at celebrations, weddings, and Sunday family lunches — a true symbol of elegance and indulgence.

Benefits**

• Light yet decadent** — the perfect mix of crunch and creaminess.
• Rich in flavor**, thanks to the buttery puff pastry and vanilla-infused cream.
• Customizable** — can be made with fruits, chocolate, or coffee.
• Impressive presentation** — looks like a bakery masterpiece but easy to make at home.

Conclusion**

The Italian Cream Puff Pastry is a dessert that never fails to impress — elegant, creamy, and impossibly flaky. Whether you serve it after dinner, at a family celebration, or just as a personal indulgence, it brings that irresistible dolce vita touch right to your table