Berry Custard Pastries: Light, Creamy, and Bursting with Fresh Fruit

by

If you love delicate pastries and fresh, juicy berries, these Italian Berry and Crema Pasticciera Tartlets will be your new favorite treat!
Flaky puff pastry cups filled with silky homemade custard and topped with vibrant mixed berries — a simple yet stunning dessert perfect for any occasion.

📝 Ingredients:

  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

  • 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

  • 1 cup milk

  • 3 egg yolks

  • 1/4 cup sugar

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare the Pastry:

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

  • Roll out the puff pastry sheet and cut into 4-inch squares.

  • Place each square into a muffin tin cup, gently pressing to form a little pastry cup.

  • Prick the bottoms lightly with a fork to prevent puffing.

  • Bake for about 15 minutes, or until golden brown.

  • Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.

2. Make the Custard (Crema Pasticciera):

  • In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it just starts to simmer.

  • Meanwhile, in a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and flour until smooth and pale.

  • Gradually pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.

  • Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 5–7 minutes, or until the custard thickens to a smooth, pudding-like consistency.

  • Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

  • Allow the custard to cool to room temperature.

3. Assemble the Pastries:

  • Spoon the cooled custard into each cooled pastry cup, filling them generously.

  • Top each tartlet with a handful of mixed fresh berries.

4. Finishing Touch:

  • Dust the tops lightly with powdered sugar just before serving for a beautiful, classic finish.

📅 Prep and Cook Time:

  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes

  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes

  • Total Time: 40 minutes

🔥 Calories:

  • Approximately 310 kcal per pastry (serves 4)

💡 Tips for the Perfect Berry Custard Pastries:

  • Use Cold Puff Pastry: Keep the puff pastry chilled right until you bake it for best flakiness.

  • Customizable Berries: Use whatever berries you have available — blackberries, cherries, or even diced mango can work beautifully.

  • Custard Consistency: Stir constantly and patiently when cooking the custard to avoid lumps and ensure a silky texture.

  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the pastry cups and custard a day in advance; assemble just before serving to keep the pastry crisp.

  • Flavor Boost: Add a little lemon zest to the custard for a zesty twist!

🍴 Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve as an elegant brunch dessert or a fresh ending to a summer dinner.

  • Add a sprig of mint on top for extra color and a refreshing aroma.

  • Pair with a cup of espresso or a glass of sweet dessert wine for a true Italian café experience.

🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Elegant but Easy: Looks bakery-quality but uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients.

  • Perfectly Balanced: The creamy custard and tart berries are perfectly balanced with the buttery pastry.

  • Versatile: Switch up the fruit toppings depending on the season and occasion!

  • Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, showers, brunches, or simply treating yourself.

Leave a Comment