Do you ever find yourself wondering what to do with that leftover pastry cream from your baking adventures? Fear not! We’ve got you covered with 12 simple and delightful recipes to make the most of that creamy goodness.
From fruit tarts to Mille-Feuille, cream-filled cupcakes to fruit-filled pastries, and more, these easy-to-follow recipes will have you indulging in mouthwatering desserts that will impress your friends and family.
Fruit Tart
Leftover pastry cream is a delightful ingredient that can be used in numerous ways, adding a creamy and flavorful touch to various desserts. One of the simplest and most delightful ways to use it is by making a delicious fruit tart. Here’s a quick and easy recipe to satisfy your sweet cravings.
Ingredients:
- Leftover pastry cream
- Fresh fruits of your choice (strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, peaches, etc.)
- 1 pre-baked tart shell (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
- Start by preparing your pre-baked tart shell. If you don’t have one ready, you can easily find them in most grocery stores. Alternatively, you can make your own by following a simple tart crust recipe.
- Once you have the tart shell, ensure it’s cooled down to room temperature before proceeding to the next step.
- Take your leftover pastry cream and give it a good stir to smoothen it out. Then, spread it evenly inside the tart shell.
- Now comes the fun part – decorating the tart with fresh fruits! Wash and slice your chosen fruits into bite-sized pieces. Arrange them on top of the pastry cream, creating a colorful and visually appealing pattern.
- Refrigerate the fruit tart for at least an hour before serving. Chilling it will firm up the pastry cream and make it easier to cut and enjoy.
- Optionally, you can brush a light glaze over the fruits to give the tart a glossy finish. To make the glaze, mix some apricot jam with a little water and heat it until it becomes syrupy. Then, brush it over the fruits gently.
Enjoy your refreshing and delightful fruit tart, where the sweet pastry cream perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the fruits!
Éclairs
If you’re looking to whip up something more indulgent with your leftover pastry cream, making éclairs is an excellent choice. These delicious French pastries will surely impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients:
- Leftover pastry cream
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the water, butter, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
- Lower the heat and add the flour all at once. Stir vigorously until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for a couple of minutes.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, into the mixture, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. The batter should become smooth and glossy.
- Transfer the batter into a pastry bag fitted with a large round tip.
- Pipe the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, forming 4 to 5-inch long éclair shapes. Make sure to leave enough space between them.
- Bake the éclairs in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the éclairs are golden brown and puffed up.
- Remove the éclairs from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, slice the éclairs lengthwise and pipe the leftover pastry cream inside each éclair.
- Optionally, you can drizzle some melted chocolate over the filled éclairs for added decadence.
Indulge in these delightful éclairs filled with creamy pastry cream – a perfect treat for any occasion!
Cream Puffs
Cream puffs are delightful little pastries that are surprisingly easy to make, especially when you have leftover pastry cream on hand. These light and airy treats will surely impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
- Leftover pastry cream
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the water, butter, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
- Lower the heat and add the flour all at once. Stir vigorously until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for a couple of minutes.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, into the mixture, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. The batter should become smooth and glossy.
- Transfer the batter into a pastry bag fitted with a large round tip.
- Pipe the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, forming small mounds about 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Bake the cream puffs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
- Remove the cream puffs from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, slice each cream puff in half horizontally and pipe the leftover pastry cream into the bottom half.
- Optionally, dust the top of the cream puffs with powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
Enjoy these delightful cream puffs, filled with the creamy goodness of leftover pastry cream!
Napoleons
Napoleons, also known as mille-feuille, are elegant and delicious layered pastries that make for an impressive dessert using leftover pastry cream. With their delicate and flaky pastry layers, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
- Leftover pastry cream
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- Confectioners’ sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the puff pastry package or recipe.
- If using store-bought puff pastry, follow the instructions on the package to thaw it if it’s frozen.
- On a floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to an even thickness (about 1/8 inch).
- Using a sharp knife or a pastry wheel, cut the rolled-out pastry sheet into equal-sized rectangles, usually around 3×5 inches.
- Place the pastry rectangles on a parchment-lined baking sheet and prick them with a fork to prevent excessive puffing during baking.
- Bake the puff pastry rectangles according to the package instructions or until they are golden brown and flaky.
- Remove the baked puff pastry from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, start assembling the Napoleons. Take one pastry rectangle as the base, pipe or spread a layer of leftover pastry cream on top, and then place another pastry rectangle on top of the cream.
- Repeat the process, creating layers of pastry and pastry cream until you have a stack of desired height. Usually, three layers are enough for a classic Napoleon.
- Optionally, dust the top of the Napoleon with confectioners’ sugar for a finishing touch.
Enjoy the elegant and delightful Napoleons, where the crisp pastry layers perfectly complement the smooth and creamy pastry cream. It’s a dessert that will surely leave a lasting impression!
Doughnuts
Doughnuts are a beloved treat enjoyed by people of all ages. If you find yourself with some leftover pastry cream, why not use it to fill these delectable fried pastries? Making your own doughnuts with creamy fillings is easier than you might think, and the results are truly satisfying.
Ingredients:
- Leftover pastry cream
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (7g) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Confectioners’ sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
- In a separate small bowl, warm the milk slightly and dissolve the yeast in it. Let it sit for a few minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough back into the mixing bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it doubles in size.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/2 inch. Use a round cookie cutter or a glass to cut out doughnut shapes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to about 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully drop the doughnuts into the hot oil and fry them until they turn golden brown, flipping them to cook both sides evenly.
- Remove the fried doughnuts from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
- Once the doughnuts are cool enough to handle, fill a piping bag with leftover pastry cream and use a small tip to inject the cream into each doughnut.
- Optionally, dust the filled doughnuts with confectioners’ sugar for added sweetness.
Enjoy your homemade doughnuts filled with the creamy goodness of leftover pastry cream. They’re perfect for breakfast or as a delightful treat any time of the day!
Fruit Parfait
If you’re in the mood for a lighter and healthier dessert, using leftover pastry cream to create a fruit parfait is an excellent idea. This refreshing and colorful dessert is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
- Leftover pastry cream
- Fresh fruits of your choice (berries, mango, pineapple, etc.)
- Granola or crushed graham crackers
Instructions:
- Wash and prepare your chosen fresh fruits by slicing them into small pieces.
- In serving glasses or bowls, layer the ingredients to create the parfait. Start with a spoonful of leftover pastry cream at the bottom.
- Add a layer of fresh fruits on top of the pastry cream, covering it evenly.
- Continue layering by adding a sprinkle of granola or crushed graham crackers for a delightful crunch.
- Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the glass or bowl, finishing with a final dollop of pastry cream and a few fruit pieces for garnish.
- Refrigerate the fruit parfait for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the parfait chilled and enjoy the medley of flavors and textures.
With this fruit parfait, you can savor the creamy goodness of pastry cream alongside the natural sweetness of fresh fruits. It’s a light and delightful dessert that will leave you feeling satisfied and refreshed.
Cream-Filled Cupcakes
Cupcakes are a beloved classic, but adding a luscious cream filling takes them to a whole new level of indulgence. If you have some leftover pastry cream, it’s the perfect opportunity to turn your regular cupcakes into delightful cream-filled treats that will impress everyone.
Ingredients:
- Leftover pastry cream
- Your favorite cupcake recipe or a store-bought mix
- Cupcake liners (if baking from scratch)
- Buttercream frosting (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to the temperature specified in your cupcake recipe.
- If you’re baking from scratch, prepare your favorite cupcake batter according to the recipe’s instructions. Place cupcake liners in a muffin tin and fill each liner about two-thirds full with the batter.
- Bake the cupcakes according to the recipe’s instructions or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely before moving on to the next step.
- Once the cupcakes are cooled, prepare a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Fill the bag with leftover pastry cream.
- Insert the piping tip into the center of each cupcake and gently squeeze the bag to inject the pastry cream into the cupcake. You can feel the cupcake puff up slightly as it fills with cream.
- If desired, you can frost the cupcakes with buttercream icing to add an extra layer of sweetness and decoration.
Enjoy your cream-filled cupcakes, where every bite is a delightful surprise of creamy goodness!
Mille-Feuille
Mille-Feuille, also known as Napoleon, is a classic French pastry that consists of layers of flaky puff pastry and rich pastry cream. If you have some leftover pastry cream, making this elegant dessert is a wonderful way to showcase its creamy goodness.
Ingredients:
- Leftover pastry cream
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- Confectioners’ sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the puff pastry package or recipe.
- If using store-bought puff pastry, follow the instructions on the package to thaw it if it’s frozen.
- On a floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
- Use a sharp knife or a pastry wheel to cut the rolled-out pastry sheet into equal-sized rectangles, usually around 3×5 inches.
- Place the pastry rectangles on a parchment-lined baking sheet and prick them with a fork to prevent excessive puffing during baking.
- Bake the puff pastry rectangles according to the package instructions or until they are golden brown and flaky.
- Remove the baked puff pastry from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, it’s time to assemble the Mille-Feuille. Take one pastry rectangle as the base and spread a generous layer of leftover pastry cream on top.
- Place another pastry rectangle on top of the cream, and repeat the process, creating layers of pastry and pastry cream until you have a stack of desired height. Usually, three layers are enough for a classic Mille-Feuille.
- Optionally, dust the top layer of the Mille-Feuille with confectioners’ sugar for a finishing touch.
Indulge in the delicate and delightful Mille-Feuille, where the flaky layers of pastry perfectly complement the smooth and creamy pastry cream. It’s a dessert that brings a touch of elegance to any occasion!
Fruit-filled Pastries
Fruit-filled pastries are a delightful way to use up leftover pastry cream while incorporating the natural sweetness of fresh fruits. These pastries are not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor, making them a hit for dessert lovers of all ages.
Ingredients:
- Leftover pastry cream
- Puff pastry sheets (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh fruits of your choice (berries, peaches, apples, etc.)
- Egg wash (1 egg beaten with a splash of water)
- Granulated sugar (optional, for sprinkling)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the puff pastry package or recipe.
- If using store-bought puff pastry, follow the instructions on the package to thaw it if it’s frozen.
- On a floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
- Cut the rolled-out pastry sheet into equal-sized squares or rectangles, depending on your preference and the size of the pastries you want to make.
- Place a spoonful of leftover pastry cream in the center of each pastry square.
- Wash and prepare your chosen fresh fruits by slicing them into small pieces. Place the fruit pieces on top of the pastry cream in the center of each square.
- Fold the edges of the pastry squares over the filling, creating a rustic, free-form shape or a neat turnover.
- Brush the exposed pastry with the egg wash and, if desired, sprinkle a little granulated sugar on top for a golden and sweet finish.
- Bake the fruit-filled pastries in the preheated oven according to the puff pastry package or recipe instructions, or until the pastries are golden brown and puffed up.
- Let the pastries cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm and fresh.
Savor the delicious combination of creamy pastry filling and juicy fruits with every bite of these delectable fruit-filled pastries!
Mini Trifles
Mini trifles are delightful and visually appealing desserts that allow you to create individual portions of creamy goodness using leftover pastry cream and other simple ingredients. These delightful treats are perfect for serving at parties or for satisfying your sweet cravings in a personalized way.
Ingredients:
- Leftover pastry cream
- Pound cake or sponge cake, cut into small cubes
- Fresh fruits (berries, kiwi, mango, etc.)
- Whipped cream or whipped topping
- Mint leaves (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- Wash and prepare your chosen fresh fruits by slicing them into small pieces.
- In individual serving glasses or bowls, create the layers for the mini trifles. Start with a layer of cubed pound cake or sponge cake at the bottom.
- Add a spoonful of leftover pastry cream on top of the cake layer, spreading it evenly.
- Place a layer of fresh fruits on top of the pastry cream, covering it evenly.
- Repeat the layers, starting with cake, then pastry cream, and finally fruits, until you reach the top of the glass or bowl.
- Finish off the mini trifles with a dollop of whipped cream or whipped topping on the top layer.
- Optionally, garnish the trifles with a small mint leaf for a fresh and decorative touch.
- Refrigerate the mini trifles for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Enjoy these delightful mini trifles, where every spoonful is a delightful combination of textures and flavors, showcasing the creamy pastry cream alongside the sweetness of fresh fruits and cake. They are sure to bring smiles to your guests’ faces and leave everyone craving for more!
Pancake Filling
Who doesn’t love pancakes for breakfast? Take your pancake game to the next level by filling them with leftover pastry cream for a delectable and indulgent morning treat. The creamy goodness of the pastry cream combined with fluffy pancakes is a match made in breakfast heaven.
Ingredients:
- Leftover pastry cream
- Your favorite pancake mix or pancake batter (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
- Prepare your pancake batter according to the package instructions or your favorite pancake recipe.
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter.
- Pour a small amount of pancake batter onto the skillet to form a small pancake, about 4 inches in diameter.
- When bubbles start to form on the surface of the pancake, carefully flip it over and cook the other side until it’s golden brown.
- Repeat the process to make more pancakes until you’ve used up all the batter.
- Once the pancakes are ready, it’s time to fill them with the luscious pastry cream. Take a pancake and place a spoonful of pastry cream in the center.
- Fold the pancake in half or roll it up to encase the pastry cream inside.
- Optionally, you can dust the filled pancakes with powdered sugar or drizzle some maple syrup on top for added sweetness.
Enjoy your pancake filling adventure, where the combination of fluffy pancakes and creamy pastry cream will make your breakfast a delightful treat!
Fruit Dip
If you’re looking for a quick and delightful way to enjoy leftover pastry cream, turning it into a fruit dip is an excellent choice. This creamy and luscious dip pairs perfectly with fresh fruits, making it a refreshing and healthy snack or dessert option.
Ingredients:
- Leftover pastry cream
- Fresh fruits of your choice (strawberries, apple slices, grapes, etc.)
Instructions:
- Wash and prepare your chosen fresh fruits by slicing them into bite-sized pieces or leaving them whole for dipping.
- Place the leftover pastry cream in a serving bowl and give it a quick stir to smoothen it out.
- Arrange the fresh fruit pieces around the bowl of pastry cream for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.
- Dip the fresh fruits into the creamy pastry cream and savor the delightful combination of flavors.
- Alternatively, you can use toothpicks or skewers to create fruit kebabs and dip them into the pastry cream for a fun and interactive dessert experience.
Enjoy this simple yet delicious fruit dip, where the creamy pastry cream perfectly complements the natural sweetness of fresh fruits. It’s a perfect snack or dessert option for any time of the day!
Final Thoughts
Finding creative ways to use leftover pastry cream can elevate your culinary experience and reduce food waste. From delightful fruit tarts and cream-filled cupcakes to elegant Mille-Feuille and indulgent doughnuts, there are endless possibilities to explore. By incorporating leftover pastry cream into your desserts, you can add a luscious and creamy touch that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests.
Moreover, these recipes are not only easy to follow but also allow you to personalize each dish based on your preferences and the fruits available. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, these simple recipes can be mastered by anyone, bringing joy and satisfaction to both the maker and the lucky ones who get to taste these treats.
Lastly, let’s not forget that using leftover pastry cream in creative ways is not only enjoyable but also a sustainable practice. Instead of discarding unused pastry cream, we can transform it into delectable desserts, reducing food waste and making the most of our ingredients. Embracing these recipes means not only treating ourselves to delicious treats but also contributing to a greener and more thoughtful approach to cooking and baking. So, the next time you have leftover pastry cream, don’t hesitate to whip up one of these delightful creations and indulge in the creamy goodness! Happy baking!
FAQ
1. Can I use different types of fruit for the recipes? Absolutely! The beauty of these recipes is their versatility. You can use a wide variety of fresh fruits based on your taste and what’s in season. From juicy berries to sweet peaches and tangy kiwis, the choice is yours. Feel free to mix and match fruits to create colorful and flavorful desserts that suit your preferences.
2. How long can I store leftover pastry cream? Leftover pastry cream can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to give it a good stir before using it in any of the recipes. If you have more pastry cream than you can use within that time frame, consider freezing it. Place the pastry cream in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion, and it should stay good in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
3. Can I use homemade pastry cream for these recipes? Absolutely! Homemade pastry cream works perfectly in these recipes, and it allows you to customize the flavor to your liking. Whether you prefer classic vanilla, a hint of chocolate, or a touch of citrus, homemade pastry cream gives you the freedom to create unique and delightful desserts.
4. Can I use dairy-free or vegan alternatives for the pastry cream? Yes, you can! There are various dairy-free and vegan pastry cream recipes available that use ingredients like almond milk, coconut milk, or soy milk instead of dairy. You can choose a vegan pastry cream recipe that aligns with your dietary preferences and use it as a substitute in the recipes.
5. Do these desserts require advanced baking skills? Not at all! These recipes are designed to be simple and beginner-friendly, requiring basic baking skills. As long as you can follow a recipe and have a little patience, you’ll be able to create these delightful desserts. They are perfect for home bakers of all skill levels, and the results are sure to impress.
6. Can I use store-bought puff pastry for the fruit-filled pastries and Mille-Feuille? Absolutely! Using store-bought puff pastry is a time-saving option and works just as well as homemade. It results in flaky and delicious pastries without the extra effort. However, if you enjoy making pastry from scratch, you can certainly go for it.
7. Can I make these desserts ahead of time for a special occasion? Definitely! Many of these desserts can be prepared in advance, making them perfect for gatherings or special occasions. Fruit tarts, Mille-Feuille, and mini trifles can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until serving. Cream-filled cupcakes and doughnuts are best filled just before serving to maintain their freshness.
8. How do I prevent the fruit from making the pastry soggy in the fruit-filled pastries? To prevent the fruit-filled pastries from becoming too soggy, make sure the fresh fruits are not overly juicy when assembling the pastries. Pat the fruit pieces gently with a paper towel to remove excess moisture before placing them on the pastry cream. Additionally, you can add a thin layer of pastry cream between the fruit and the pastry to act as a barrier.
9. Can I experiment with different flavors for the doughnuts and cream-filled cupcakes? Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with the flavors. For the doughnuts, you can add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for extra warmth. As for the cream-filled cupcakes, you can infuse the pastry cream with extracts like almond or coconut for unique flavors. The possibilities are endless, so have fun experimenting!
10. Are these desserts suitable for people with nut allergies? Most of the recipes do not include nuts in the ingredients. However, if you have nut allergies, always read the labels of store-bought ingredients, such as puff pastry and granola, to ensure they are nut-free. If you’re making the desserts from scratch, you can easily omit any nuts or nut-based products and enjoy these treats worry-free.
In summary, these recipes provide a delightful way to use leftover pastry cream and explore a variety of flavors and textures. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, these desserts are simple, versatile, and sure to impress. So, grab some fresh fruits, puff pastry, and your leftover pastry cream, and let your creativity and taste buds take you on a delectable adventure!