Millefeuille shortcakes

Ingredients

Puff pastry

750 grams (26.5 ounces) flour

150 grams (5.3 ounces) soft butter

10 grams (0.35 ounces or 2 teaspoons) salt

315 grams (11.1 ounces or 1 1/3 cups) ice cold water

0.5 teaspoons vinegar

454 grams (16 ounces or 1 pound) frozen butter cubes

The cream

400 grams (14.1 ounces or 1 2/3 cups) whipping cream

80 grams (2.8 ounces or 2/3 cup) powdered sugar

Additionally

raspberries, to taste

Instructions

Step 1

1. Mix the flour, salt, and softened butter in a mixer with a paddle attachment until combined. Don't overmix; stop once the ingredients are just combined.

Step 2

2. In a separate bowl, combine the water and vinegar. Add this mixture to the flour and butter, and knead the dough just until the ingredients come together. Avoid over-kneading to prevent tough dough.

Step 3

3. Add the ice-cold butter cubes to the dough and mix briefly. It's important that the butter pieces remain intact in the dough as this results in the desirable layers when baking.

Step 4

4. Shape the dough into a square, wrap it in cling film, and refrigerate for at least an hour. Chilling the dough helps with the layering effect, making your puff pastry flakier.

Step 5

5. Roll out the chilled dough into a rectangular shape. Fold the edges towards the center, then fold the dough halves on top of each other so it resembles a book. Refrigerate for 30 minutes. Work quickly to keep the butter from melting.

Step 6

6. Repeat this rolling and folding process several times, each time refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes before the next roll. This folding technique is crucial for creating flaky layers.

Step 7

7. Divide the dough into four 30x40 cm (11.8x15.7 inches) layers and bake in a preheated oven at 392F (200C) until golden brown.

Step 8

8. Whip the chilled cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. For best results, ensure your whipping cream and utensils are very cold.

Step 9

9. Cut the baked puff pastry into desired shapes and layer in threes, filling each layer with whipped cream using a spoon or pastry bag. Top with raspberries or berries of your choice.

Servings

Picture this: a beautifully set table with a platter of your homemade puff pastry, layers of golden, flaky perfection topped with luscious whipped cream. 📸 It’s the kind of dessert that not only delights the taste buds but also impresses the eyes. **Serve with a sprinkling of fresh raspberries** to add a burst of color and a tangy contrast to the creamy sweetness. 🍇 For a more decadent finish, **drizzle a bit of melted chocolate** on top and watch your guests’ eyes light up. 🍫 Or keep it light and pair with a cup of Earl Grey tea or a glass of chilled rosé. 🍷 🍵 Hosting a brunch? Make mini versions of these puff pastries for a bite-sized delight that’s perfectly elegant yet incredibly satisfying. No matter the occasion, these pastries are bound to be the centerpiece of your spread. 🌟

Equipment

Stand Mixer

Essential for blending your dough ingredients smoothly. If you don't have a stand mixer, a hand mixer or even mixing by hand will do, just be prepared for a workout! 🥄

Rolling Pin

Crucial for achieving those thin and delicate layers in your puff pastry. A marble rolling pin helps keep the dough cool, which is key for flakiness.

Cling Film

Perfect for wrapping and chilling your dough to keep it fresh and prevent the butter from melting. Don’t overlook this step; it’s what keeps your pastry layers in check! 🌟

Baking Tray

Ensure it’s large enough to accommodate your pastry layers without crowding. Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and achieve an even bake.

Piping Bag

Helps you add the cream filling precisely and beautifully. If a piping bag is not available, a simple zip-lock bag with a corner cut off can work as an alternative.

Variations

Want to make this recipe **gluten-free**? Swap out the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to add a teaspoon of xanthan gum to help the dough come together and stay elastic. 🥳 For a **vegan twist**, replace the butter with vegan butter. 🌱 Use coconut cream instead of whipping cream and sweeten it with powdered sugar to taste. Also, make sure to use a vegan egg replacer, such as a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) if the recipe calls for an egg wash on the puff pastry. 🌟 With these simple swaps, you can enjoy a delightful, flaky pastry that caters to everyone’s dietary preferences without sacrificing taste. 🥥💚

Faq

What can I use if I don’t have a stand mixer?
While a stand mixer is handy, you can mix the dough by hand or use a hand mixer. It might require a bit more elbow grease, but it will still do the job.
How do I keep the butter from melting while rolling out the dough?
Keep everything as cold as possible. Chill your rolling pin, use ice-cold water, and work quickly. If your dough starts to warm up, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes.
Can I make the puff pastry ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and keep it wrapped in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to a month. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before using.
What’s the best way to cut the pastry layers evenly?
Use a sharp knife and a ruler to measure and mark your cuts. This ensures precise, straight edges and uniform layers.
How can I make my cream filling more stable?
Mix a bit of gelatin into the whipping cream or use a stabilizing powder like Whip It to keep the cream stiff and prevent it from melting.
Can I add flavors to the dough?
Yes, you can infuse your dough with flavors. Try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or citrus zest to the dough mixture for an extra punch.