Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure! Today, we’re preparing Cream and Berry Filled Pastry Balls, a sweet treat that is perfect for any occasion. These light and airy pastries are made from a simple dough, baked to golden perfection, and filled with luscious whipped cream and vibrant mixed berries. Each bite promises a burst of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Let’s gather our ingredients and get started on this delightful dessert!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Extra powdered sugar for dusting
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 12 pastry balls
Directions and Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine water, cubed butter, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter has melted and the mixture comes to a rolling boil.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the flour until a smooth dough forms.
- Allow the dough to cool slightly before transferring it to a piping bag fitted with a large round tip.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup.
- Pipe small balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each to allow for puffing.
- Bake the pastry balls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up beautifully.
- While the pastries are baking, prepare the filling by whipping the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- In a small bowl, combine the mixed berries with lemon juice, gently tossing to coat.
- Once the pastry balls have cooled completely, carefully cut a small hole in the side of each ball.
- Fill each ball first with a generous dollop of the whipped cream, then add a spoonful of the mixed berries.
- Finish off by dusting the filled pastries with extra powdered sugar for a charming touch before serving.
Notes or Tips
For an extra flavor boost, feel free to add a bit of lemon zest to the whipped cream. You can also experiment with different berry combinations based on what’s in season. These pastry balls are best enjoyed the same day they’re made, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a day or two.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe involves basic techniques that are accessible for home cooks of all levels. The key to achieving airy pastry balls is to ensure that the dough is well mixed and to avoid opening the oven door too early, which could cause the pastries to collapse. A piping bag helps control the size and shape of your pastries, ensuring they bake evenly. Remember, practice makes perfect!
FAQ
Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh? Yes, frozen berries work well, but be sure to thaw and drain them before mixing with the lemon juice to avoid excess moisture.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? For a lighter option, you can use whipped topping, or for a dairy-free version, try coconut cream.
Can I make the dough ahead of time? While it’s best to prepare and bake the dough fresh, you can refrigerate the dough for a short time. Just be sure to let it come back to room temperature before piping.
Conclusion
There you have it! Cream and Berry Filled Pastry Balls are a delightful addition to your dessert repertoire, bringing a touch of elegance and joy to your table. Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or simply a sweet indulgence at home, these pastries are sure to impress. So gather your loved ones, share these treats, and enjoy the sweet moments they bring to your kitchen. Happy baking!