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Puff Pastry Vanilla Custard Cream Squares (Kremsnite)

Few desserts can rival the delicate elegance of Kremsnite, the beloved Eastern European treat that has captured the hearts of sweet-toothed individuals for generations. With its layers of light, flaky puff pastry sandwiched around a luscious vanilla custard cream, Kremsnite is a celebration of textures and flavours that is sure to impress at any gathering. In this article, we’ll explore the origins of this delectable dessert and guide you through creating your very own puff pastry vanilla custard cream squares.

A Brief History of Kremsnite

Kremsnite, which translates to "cream slice," hails from the charming town of Krems, Austria, and is a staple of Central European pastry shops. Traditionally, Kremsnite is known for its rich custard filling, encased within two layers of crisp puff pastry, and often dusted with powdered sugar for that finishing touch. Its roots are entwined with the culture of local patisserie, embodying a long-standing tradition of baking that places an emphasis on quality ingredients and artisan methods.

Ingredients

To make your own puff pastry vanilla custard cream squares, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Puff Pastry:

• 250g ready-made puff pastry (or homemade if you’re feeling adventurous)
• Flour for dusting
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

For the Vanilla Custard Cream:

• 500ml whole milk
• 150g caster sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract or the seeds from 1 vanilla pod
• 6 large egg yolks
• 60g cornflour
• 100g unsalted butter, softened

For Assembly:

• Icing sugar, for dusting
• Optional: Fresh berries or chocolate shavings for decoration

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Puff Pastry

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 220°C (428°F). Line a baking tray with baking parchment.

2. Roll Out the Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry into a rectangle, about 3mm thick. Cut the pastry into two equal rectangles, roughly 20cm by 30cm each.

3. Egg Wash: Transfer one layer to the prepared baking tray and brush it lightly with the beaten egg. Place the second layer of pastry on top of the first, and repeat the egg wash on the top layer. This will give it a lovely golden finish as it bakes.

4. Bake the Pastry: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before assembling.

Step 2: Making the Vanilla Custard Cream

1. Heat the Milk: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, half of the sugar, and the vanilla extract (or seeds). Bring to just below boiling point, then remove from heat.

2. Whisk Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks, remaining sugar, and cornflour until smooth and pale.

3. Temper the Egg Mixture: Gradually pour the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling.

4. Cook the Custard: Transfer the mixture back to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

5. Add Butter: Once thickened, remove from heat and whisk in the softened butter until fully incorporated. Allow to cool at room temperature before using.

Step 3: Assembly

1. Layer the Custard: Place one layer of baked puff pastry on a serving dish. Spread the vanilla custard cream evenly over the pastry, smoothing it to the edges.

2. Top with Pastry: Carefully place the second layer of puff pastry on top of the custard, gently pressing it down to ensure there are no air pockets.

3. Finish and Serve: Dust the top with icing sugar, and, if desired, add fresh berries or chocolate shavings for a decorative touch. Cut into squares or slices for serving.

Conclusion

Puff pastry vanilla custard cream squares, or Kremsnite, are a delightful way to bring a taste of Eastern Europe to your kitchen. The combination of flaky pastry with creamy custard is an irresistible treat that will wow your guests or make for an indulgent afternoon tea. Simple yet elegant, these squares offer a sweet retreat for any occasion. So roll up your sleeves, and get ready to indulge in a little piece of culinary history! Enjoy every creamy, crispy bite.

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