Description
A classic Russian Napoleon cake made with multiple layers of crisp, flaky pastry and rich vanilla custard cream, assembled and chilled until soft and cake-like. This elegant dessert is creamy, delicate, and perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients
- 2 sheets puff pastry (or homemade pastry layers)
- 4 cups milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 egg yolks
- 1/3 cup cornstarch
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for whipped cream)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out puff pastry and cut into even rectangles or circles.
- Prick with a fork and bake for 12–15 minutes until golden and crisp. Cool completely.
- In a saucepan, heat milk until warm.
- In a bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and flour until smooth.
- Gradually add warm milk to the egg mixture while whisking.
- Return mixture to saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Remove from heat, stir in butter and vanilla, and cool completely.
- Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form, then fold into the cooled custard.
- Layer pastry sheets with cream, repeating layers and finishing with cream on top.
- Crush one pastry layer and sprinkle crumbs over the top.
- Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight before serving.
Notes
- Chilling allows the layers to soften and absorb the cream.
- Use homemade pastry for a more authentic result.
- Ensure custard is fully cooled before combining with whipped cream.
- Can be made a day in advance for best texture.
- Store refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking and Chilling
- Cuisine: Russian