Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 package puff pastry sheets (2 sheets)
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup fresh berries (optional)
Special equipment needed:
- Electric mixer
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
- Rolling pin
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. In another mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined.
5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one sheet of puff pastry to a 12x12 inch square. Transfer the pastry to the prepared baking sheet.
6. Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the puff pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
7. Roll out the second sheet of puff pastry to the same size as the first. Place it on top of the cream cheese mixture.
8. Spread the remaining cream cheese mixture over the second layer of puff pastry, again leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
9. Sprinkle the sliced almonds over the top of the cream cheese mixture.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the puff pastry is golden brown.
11. Let the cake cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 400°F (200°C)
Serving size:
- 8-10 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 360
- Total fat: 24g
- Saturated fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 190mg
- Total carbohydrates: 31g
- Dietary fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 17g
- Protein: 6g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Almonds can be substituted with any other nuts or omitted altogether.
- Fresh berries can be substituted with any other fruit or omitted altogether.
Variations:
- Add a layer of fruit preserves between the cream cheese layers.
- Use different flavors of cream cheese, such as strawberry or chocolate.
- Top the cake with a chocolate ganache or caramel sauce.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the cake cleanly.
- Serve the cake chilled for a firmer texture.
Storage instructions:
- Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the cake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes or until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
- Dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar before serving.
- Top the cake with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream.
Garnishes:
- Sliced almonds
- Fresh berries
- Whipped cream
Pairings:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Sparkling wine
Suggested side dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Mixed green salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the puff pastry is not fully cooked, return the cake to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to store the cake in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.
Food history:
- The Napoleon cake, also known as mille-feuille, originated in France in the 19th century.
Flavor profiles:
- Sweet
- Creamy
- Nutty
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the cake as a dessert or as a sweet brunch item.
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