Cream & Berry Pastry Bites
These elegant pastry puffs are filled with a light mascarpone-based cream and topped with a vibrant berry compote, creating a delightful contrast of crisp shells, silky filling, and fresh fruit flavor.
Cream and Berry Pastry Balls
Ingredients
For the Pastry
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Water | 1 cup |
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Large eggs | 4 |
| Salt | A pinch |
For the Cream Filling
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Mascarpone or cream cheese | 1 cup |
| Heavy whipping cream | ½ cup |
| Powdered sugar | ⅓ cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Lemon zest | Zest of 1 lemon (optional) |
For the Berry Compote
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries) | 1 cup |
| Granulated sugar | 2 teaspoons |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
Optional Toppings
- Melted white chocolate (for dipping)
- Chopped nuts or sprinkles
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
How to Make Cream and Berry Pastry Balls
Prepare the Pastry
Step 1: Create the Dough Base
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a saucepan, bring the water, butter, and salt to a full boil. Add the flour all at once and stir vigorously until the mixture comes together into a smooth ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
Step 2: Add the Eggs
Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and let it cool slightly. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, until the dough is smooth, glossy, and pipeable.
Step 3: Bake the Puffs
Pipe or spoon small mounds of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until puffed and golden. Allow the pastry shells to cool completely before filling.
Make the Berry Compote
Step 4: Cook the Fruit
Combine the berries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the berries soften and the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let cool fully.
Prepare the Cream Filling
Step 5: Mix the Cream Base
In a bowl, beat the mascarpone (or cream cheese) with the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Fold in the Whipped Cream
Whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks, then gently fold it into the mascarpone mixture until light and airy.
Assemble the Pastry Balls
Step 7: Fill the Pastries
Cut each cooled pastry puff in half and pipe or spoon the cream filling into the center.
Step 8: Add the Berry Layer
Spoon a small amount of berry compote over the cream.
Step 9: Finish & Decorate (Optional)
Dip the tops in melted white chocolate and coat with chopped nuts or sprinkles if desired. Just before serving, lightly dust with powdered sugar.
