Delight your taste buds with these irresistible cream and berry-filled pastry balls, a perfect blend of crispy golden pastry, rich cream filling, and fresh, juicy berries. Each bite brings together the creamy sweetness of the filling and the tangy burst of berries, making this dessert a must-try for any special occasion or a cozy indulgence at home. Simple to prepare and sure to impress, these pastry balls are a crowd-pleaser that combines elegance and flavor effortlessly.
Ingredients:
For the Pastry:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup cold water
For the Cream Filling:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup mascarpone cheese (or cream cheese)
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Berry Filling:
- 1 cup mixed fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Glaze (optional):
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pastry Dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, butter, and salt. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add cold water and mix until the dough comes together. Form a ball, wrap it in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Shape and Bake the Pastry Balls
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the chilled dough to about ¼ inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut into small circles (about 3 inches in diameter).
- Gently shape each circle into a small ball and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown. Let them cool on a wire rack.
Step 3: Make the Cream Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- In another bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well combined. Chill until ready to use.
Step 4: Prepare the Berry Filling
- In a small saucepan, combine the fresh berries, sugar, and lemon juice.
- Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the berries soften and create a sauce. Set aside to cool.
Step 5: Assemble the Pastry Balls
- Using a small knife, cut a hole in the side of each pastry ball to create space for the filling.
- Spoon the cream filling into a piping bag and fill each pastry ball with a generous amount of cream.
- Top each cream-filled pastry with a spoonful of the berry filling.
Step 6: Add the Glaze and Garnish (Optional)
- For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Drizzle over the pastry balls.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy Serve these cream and berry-filled pastry balls immediately for the freshest flavor, or chill them for an hour to let the flavors meld. Perfect for afternoon tea or as a show-stopping dessert!