Napoleon cake recipe with puff pastry

 Indulge in the decadent and timeless delight of Napoleon cake recipe with puff pastry. Also known as Mille-Feuille, this classic French pastry features layers of flaky puff pastry, luscious vanilla custard, and a delicate touch of sweetness. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey and create a show-stopping dessert that will impress family and friends. Let's dive into the recipe and discover the art of making a homemade Napoleon Cake.

Ingredients:

1 package (17.3 ounces) frozen puff pastry sheets, thawed

2 ½ cups whole milk

4 large egg yolks

½ cup granulated sugar

¼ cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Confectioners' sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface into two rectangles, each about 10x12 inches. Transfer the pastry rectangles onto the prepared baking sheets. Prick the surface of the pastry with a fork to prevent excessive rising.

Bake the puff pastry sheets in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and vanilla extract. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Remove from heat.

In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, granulated sugar, and flour until well combined and smooth.

Gradually pour about 1/3 of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Then, pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture.

Place the saucepan back on the stove over medium heat. Cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens and comes to a gentle boil. Continue cooking for another minute or two to ensure the flour is fully cooked.

Remove the custard from heat and transfer it to a bowl. Cover the surface of the custard with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Let it cool completely.

Once the puff pastry and custard are cooled, it's time to assemble the Napoleon Cake. Place one sheet of puff pastry on a serving platter. Spread a generous layer of custard evenly over the pastry. Top with the second sheet of puff pastry.

Dust the top layer of puff pastry with confectioners' sugar for a beautiful finishing touch. You can also use a fork to create decorative lines on the surface if desired.

Serve and Enjoy:

Slice the Napoleon Cake into squares or rectangles, and serve it chilled or at room temperature. Each bite will reveal the heavenly combination of delicate puff pastry and smooth vanilla custard. This exquisite dessert is perfect for special occasions, afternoon tea, or any time you desire a taste of French elegance.