Napoleon cake, also known as Mille-feuille, is a classic pastry that features layers of crispy puff pastry and rich, creamy custard.

Lykkers, this elegant dessert is a staple in French cuisine and is perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to indulge in a sophisticated treat.

Ingredients:

For the Puff Pastry:

- One packet of thawed frozen puff pastry sheets (17.3 ounces)

- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

- Powdered sugar, for dusting

For the Pastry Cream:

- 2 cups whole milk

- 1 cup granulated sugar

- 4 large egg yolks

- ¼ cup cornstarch

- ¼ cup unsalted butter

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Icing (Optional):

- 1 cup powdered sugar

- 2 tablespoons milk

- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup

- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

Prepare the Puff Pastry:

- Start by placing the thawed puff pastry sheets on a floured surface. Gently roll them out to eliminate any creases.

- Cut the dough into rectangles, approximately 3x4 inches, and arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

- Brush the top of each rectangle with the beaten egg and dust lightly with powdered sugar.

- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and golden. Once baked, let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Prepare the Pastry Cream:

- In a medium saucepan, warm the milk over medium heat until it just starts to simmer, then remove it from the heat.

- Whisk the cornflour, egg yolks, and granulated sugar together in another basin until thoroughly blended.

-To avoid curdling, gradually incorporate the heated milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly.

- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and begins to bubble.

- Take off the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter. Let cool until the pastry cream reaches room temperature.

Assemble the Cake:

- Once the puff pastry and pastry cream are completely cooled, spread a layer of pastry cream on one puff pastry rectangle.

- Top with another puff pastry rectangle and repeat the layers until you have three layers of pastry cream and four layers of puff pastry.

- Place a last layer of puff pastry on top to finish.

Chill and Serve:

- Chill the assembled Napoleon cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld.

- Slice and serve chilled. Dust with additional powdered sugar if desired.

Napoleon cake is a delightful pastry that combines crispy puff pastry with creamy, luscious custard. Its elegant layers and rich flavors make it a perfect dessert for special occasions or a luxurious treat any day of the week.

Napoleon Cake Recipe | Torte Napoleon

Video by The Cooking Foodie