Prepare the Custard
- Heat Milk: In a saucepan, heat 500 ml of milk over medium heat until it just starts to simmer. Remove from heat.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, icing sugar, and corn starch until smooth.
- Combine and Cook: Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to avoid curdling. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and starts to bubble. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow to cool.
Prepare the Pastries
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F).
- Cut Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut into squares or desired shapes.
- Assemble: Place a dollop of hazelnut cream in the center of each pastry square. Spoon a bit of the prepared custard over the hazelnut cream.
- Seal and Brush: Fold the pastry over to seal, creating a pocket. Press the edges with a fork to seal well. Brush the tops with a bit of milk and sprinkle with brown sugar.
- Bake: Place the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm, straight from the oven.
- Dust with extra icing sugar for a touch of sweetness.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.
Cooking Tips
- Make sure to stir the custard constantly while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard.
Nutritional Benefits
- Eggs: High in protein and essential vitamins.
- Milk: Good source of calcium and vitamin D.
- Hazelnuts: Rich in healthy fats and antioxidants.
Dietary Information
- These pastries contain dairy and eggs.
Storage Tips
- Store any leftover pastries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at a low temperature before serving to retain the crispiness of the puff pastry.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare.
- Delicious combination of creamy custard and rich hazelnut cream.
- Perfect for special occasions or a delightful treat any day.
Conclusion
These Hazelnut Custard Puff Pastries are a delightful combination of flaky puff pastry, rich hazelnut cream, and creamy custard. They are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy these pastries warm, and savor the wonderful blend of textures and flavors.
