Description
These Cream and Berry-Filled Pastry Balls are the perfect blend of light, airy choux pastry, velvety whipped cream, and the burst of fresh berries. Drizzled with a sweet glaze, these delightful treats are as beautiful as they are delicious. Perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or a special dessert, they’ll leave everyone asking for seconds!
Who is this Recipe For?
- Dessert Enthusiasts: If you love light and creamy desserts with fresh fruit, this is for you.
- Hosts and Hostesses: These elegant pastry balls are ideal for impressing guests.
- Baking Beginners: Choux pastry may sound intimidating, but this recipe makes it approachable and fun.
Why It’s Great
- Elegant Yet Easy: A sophisticated dessert made with simple techniques.
- Versatile: Switch up the berries or add chocolate for endless variations.
- Fresh and Delicious: Combines the richness of cream with the tartness of berries for a perfectly balanced treat.
Ingredients
For the Pastry:
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
For the Filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
For the Glaze (Optional):
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- Fresh berries for garnish
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Piping bag or spoon
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Knife
Instructions
1. Make the Pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a saucepan, combine water and butter. Heat until the butter melts and the mixture boils.
- Remove from heat and stir in the flour and salt until the dough forms a ball. Let it cool for a few minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition until the dough is smooth and glossy.
2. Pipe the Pastry Balls:
- Use a piping bag or spoon to drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Space them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the pastry balls cool inside for about 10 minutes to prevent collapsing.
3. Make the Cream Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
4. Fill the Pastry Balls:
- Once the pastry balls are completely cool, use a small knife to make a hole at the bottom of each.
- Fill each pastry ball with whipped cream using a piping bag or spoon. Add a few mixed berries to each for a burst of flavor.
5. Make the Glaze (Optional):
- Whisk powdered sugar and milk together until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the filled pastry balls for an added touch of sweetness.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
- Garnish with additional fresh berries and serve immediately for the best taste.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store filled pastry balls in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freezer: You can freeze unfilled pastry balls for up to 1 month. Thaw and fill before serving.
FAQ
1. Can I make the pastry in advance?
Yes! Prepare and bake the choux pastry ahead of time, and store it in an airtight container. Fill and serve them fresh.
2. What other fillings can I use?
You can use custard, chocolate mousse, or lemon curd instead of whipped cream for a unique twist.
3. Can I skip the glaze?
Absolutely! The glaze is optional and adds sweetness but isn’t necessary if you prefer a less sweet treat.
4. What if my pastry balls collapse?
Ensure they’re baked long enough to set and avoid opening the oven too early during baking.
Conclusion
These Irresistible Cream and Berry-Filled Pastry Balls are the ultimate dessert for any occasion. With their light texture, creamy filling, and fresh berries, they deliver elegance and flavor in every bite. Perfect for impressing your guests or treating yourself, these pastries are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Enjoy creating and devouring this delightful dessert!
