Are you a fan of flaky, buttery pastry? Look no further! We’ve got a collection of 18 deliciously sweet and savory pastry recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic French croissants to homemade baklava with honey and nuts, we’ve rounded up the best of the best when it comes to flaky pastry.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey around the world, exploring different cultures and cuisines through their signature pastry dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and elegant or bold and decadent, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, get baking, and indulge in these sweet treats!
Classic French Croissants
Classic French Croissants Recipe
Start your day with a flaky, buttery, and utterly delicious French croissant. This recipe yields a classic result with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Stir to dissolve yeast, then let sit for 5 minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
4. Beat in the egg and yeast mixture until the dough is smooth and elastic.
5. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, then place it in a lightly oiled bowl to rise.
6. Let the dough rise at room temperature for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
7. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
8. Cut into triangles and roll each triangle into a croissant shape.
9. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each croissant.
10. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Buttery Puff Pastry Apple Turnovers
A delightful dessert that combines the flaky goodness of puff pastry with the sweetness of caramelized apples.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large bowl, mix together sliced apples, granulated sugar, and softened butter until well combined.
4. Spoon apple mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Fold other half of pastry over filling to form a triangle or rectangle shape. Press edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with vanilla extract and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chocolate-Filled Danish Pastries
Treat your loved ones to the ultimate sweet indulgence with these soft, buttery Danish pastries filled with a velvety chocolate center. Perfect for special occasions or just because.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup warm milk (about 105°F to 115°F)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Filling ingredients (below)
Filling:
– 8 ounces high-quality dark or semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, flour, warm milk, sugar, and salt. Stir until smooth.
3. Add melted butter, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
4. Divide dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into an oval shape.
5. Place a tablespoon of chocolate filling in the center of each pastry. Fold edges over to form a triangle or square shape, pressing gently to seal.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Homemade Baklava with Honey and Nuts
This classic Middle Eastern dessert is a sweet and nutty delight, made with layers of flaky phyllo, crunchy nuts, and a drizzle of golden honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup chopped walnuts or pistachios
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together chopped nuts, sugar, flour, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt.
4. Layer phyllo dough with nut mixture, starting and ending with a layer of phyllo.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and drizzle with honey while still warm.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Easy Cream Cheese Danish
Make a deliciously flaky and creamy pastry with just a few simple steps!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
3. In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle shape.
6. Brush the pastry with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rustic Galette with Seasonal Fruits
This rustic galette recipe is a perfect way to showcase the beauty of seasonal fruits, wrapped in a flaky crust and topped with a crumbly streusel. The simplicity of this dessert allows the natural sweetness of the fruits to shine through.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3-4 seasonal fruits of your choice (e.g. strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– Streusel topping: 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon cold unsalted butter, 1/2 cup rolled oats
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add the cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
5. Arrange the seasonal fruits on one half of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Fold the other half of the dough over the fruit and press the edges to seal.
7. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle streusel topping.
8. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Savory Spinach and Feta Pastry Pockets
A delicious twist on traditional spinach and feta, these pastry pockets are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Flaky puff pastry filled with wilted spinach, crumbled feta, and a hint of garlic will become your new favorite comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a pan, wilt spinach leaves with garlic and season with salt and pepper. Let cool.
4. Spoon spinach mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges. Top with crumbled feta cheese.
5. Fold other half of pastry over filling to form a triangle or square shape. Press edges together to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for golden glaze.
7. Place pockets on prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Curd Mille-Feuille
A classic French dessert gets a bright and citrusy twist with this Lemon Curd Mille-Feuille recipe. Layers of flaky puff pastry, tangy lemon curd, and creamy whipped cream create a show-stopping dessert perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup lemon curd (see below)
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– Confectioners’ sugar, to taste
Lemon Curd Recipe:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry and cut into rectangles.
2. Spread a layer of lemon curd on each rectangle, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
3. Fold pastry in half lengthwise, pressing edges to seal.
4. Place mille-feuilles on baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Whip heavy cream with confectioners’ sugar until stiff peaks form.
6. Assemble by placing a baked mille-feuille on serving plate, topping with whipped cream, and repeating layers one more time.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Palmiers with Cinnamon Sugar
Sweet Palmiers with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe
These buttery, crispy palmiers are a classic French treat that’s easy to make and perfect for snacking or gifting.
Ingredients:
- 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Cinnamon sugar (see below)
Cinnamon Sugar:
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. In a small bowl, mix together sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Fold the pastry in half lengthwise, pressing gently to adhere the filling.
5. Cut into 1-inch wide strips.
6. Place palmiers on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Note: Palmiers are best served fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Flaky Raspberry Almond Pastries
These tender pastries are filled with a sweet and tangy raspberry filling, crunchy almonds, and topped with a flaky crust. Perfect for a dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 cup fresh raspberries
+ 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
+ 1 tablespoon almond extract
+ 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into a crumbly mixture.
3. Gradually add ice-cold water, stirring until dough forms.
4. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut out rectangles of dough, about 3×4 inches.
6. Spoon a small amount of raspberry filling onto one half of each rectangle, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Top with sliced almonds.
7. Fold other half of dough over filling and press edges to seal.
8. Place pastries on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between for spreading.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Traditional Portuguese Egg Tarts
These classic pastries, also known as “pastéis de nata,” are a staple of Portuguese cuisine and are often served at parties and special occasions. This recipe yields 12-15 tarts that are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Cut out circles of pastry using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, milk, salt, and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Place a spoonful of the egg mixture onto one half of each pastry circle.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush tops with a little bit of water and sprinkle with sugar.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chocolate Hazelnut Pain au Chocolat
Experience the rich flavors of hazelnut and dark chocolate wrapped in a flaky, buttery pastry crust with this Chocolate Hazelnut Pain au Chocolat recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup hazelnut spread (such as Nutella)
– 4 ounces dark chocolate chips or chunks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into a crumbly mixture.
4. Gradually add milk and egg until dough forms.
5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
6. Spread hazelnut spread evenly over the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on each side.
7. Melt chocolate chips or chunks and drizzle over the hazelnut spread.
8. Roll up the dough tightly, starting from one long edge.
9. Cut into 12 equal pieces and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
10. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Mini Fruit Tartlets with Vanilla Custard
These bite-sized tartlets are perfect for a sweet treat or as a refreshing dessert. A flaky pastry crust, topped with a layer of creamy vanilla custard and finished with a pop of fresh fruit.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Fresh fruit (such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into small squares, about 3 inches (7.5 cm) per side.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, egg yolks, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Place a spoonful of the custard mixture onto each pastry square, leaving a 1/2 inch border around edges.
5. Arrange fresh fruit on top of the custard.
6. Fold the pastry squares in half over the filling to form triangles or fold into quarters to form shapes.
7. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and place onto prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart
Savory Sweetness: Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart Recipe
=====================================================
This elegant tart combines the deep, rich flavors of caramelized onions with the creamy tang of goat cheese. Perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
3. Roll out pie crust and place in a tart pan with a removable bottom.
4. Arrange caramelized onions on the crust, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Sprinkle goat cheese over the onions.
6. Dot top of tart with softened butter.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls
Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with these flaky, buttery, and sweet puff pastry cinnamon rolls.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Dot the pastry with the softened butter.
5. Roll the pastry into a tight log, starting from one of the long sides. Cut into 12 equal pieces.
6. Place the rolls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each roll.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving, if desired. Enjoy!
Strawberry Cream Cheese Braid
This sweet and savory braid combines the freshness of strawberries with the richness of cream cheese, perfect for a breakfast or brunch treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup strawberry jam
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Spread evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
4. Spoon strawberry jam over the cream cheese mixture, followed by sliced strawberries.
5. Fold the sides of the pastry over the filling, then roll into a braid shape. Place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Brush egg wash over the pastry to give it a golden brown color.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Savory Sausage and Cheese Pinwheels
Savory Sausage and Cheese Pinwheels Recipe
These pinwheels are a perfect snack or appetizer, packed with flavorful sausage, melted cheese, and flaky crackers. Perfect for parties or game days!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of refrigerated crescent rolls
– 1 pound cooked sausage (such as cheddar or Italian-style)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the crescent rolls and cut into 4 equal pieces.
3. Spread a spoonful of cream cheese on each piece, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and a few slices of cooked sausage.
5. Roll up each piece tightly, starting from the long side.
6. Place pinwheels seam-side down on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Glazed Cherry Danish Pastries
Sweet Cherry Danish Pastries
These flaky, buttery pastry pockets are filled with a sweet cherry filling and topped with a sticky glaze. Perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup of cherry filling (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into 3-inch squares.
3. Spoon a small amount of cherry filling onto the center of each square, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
4. Fold the dough over the filling, pressing edges together with a fork to seal.
5. Place pastries on prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. While still warm, drizzle with glaze made by whisking together sugar, cornstarch, and heavy cream.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Indulge in sweet delights with these 18 flaky pastry recipes! From classic French croissants to homemade baklava and traditional Portuguese egg tarts, there’s something for everyone. Try buttery puff pastry apple turnovers or chocolate-filled Danish pastries. Alternatively, make a rustic galette with seasonal fruits or savory spinach and feta pastry pockets. You’ll also find sweet treats like lemon curd mille-feuille, palmiers with cinnamon sugar, and flaky raspberry almond pastries. Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes are sure to satisfy!
