How to Make a Classic Napoleon (Mille-Feuille) with Vanilla Custard

Simple Summary

Napoleon, also known as mille-feuille, is a classic French dessert featuring layers of flaky puff pastry and rich custard cream. This elegant layered cake is a perfect balance of crispy and creamy textures.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Chill Time: 3 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Difficulty: Intermediate

Ingredients

For the pastry layers:

• 1 package (17.3 oz) frozen puff pastry, thawed
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar

For the vanilla custard:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 oz dark chocolate, melted (for decoration)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Unfold the puff pastry sheets and cut each into three equal rectangles. Place on the prepared baking sheets.

3. Dust the pastry rectangles with powdered sugar and cover with another piece of parchment paper. Place another baking sheet on top to keep the pastry flat while baking.

4. Bake for 15-18 minutes, until golden brown. Remove the top baking sheet and parchment, and let cool completely on a wire rack.

5. For the custard, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks in a medium bowl until smooth.

6. In a saucepan, heat the milk until it just begins to simmer. Slowly pour about 1/2 cup of the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly.

7. Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the custard thickens and begins to bubble, about 5-7 minutes.

8. Remove from heat and stir in butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface, and refrigerate until cool, about 2 hours.

9. To assemble, place one pastry rectangle on a serving plate. Spread with 1/3 of the custard. Repeat layers twice more, ending with a pastry layer on top.

10. For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Spread over the top layer of pastry.

11. Drizzle melted chocolate in lines across the glaze, then drag a toothpick perpendicularly through the lines to create a feathered pattern.

12. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the layers to set.

Chef's Notes

• For best results, use high-quality butter in your puff pastry for the flakiest layers.
• The custard can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
• To achieve clean slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water between cuts.
• For a twist, try flavoring the custard with almond extract or folding in some fresh berries between layers.

Nutritional Info

Per serving (approximate):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 30g

This dessert is rich in calcium from the milk and eggs, and provides a good source of energy. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Napoleon chilled, accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pair with a cup of espresso or a glass of dessert wine for an elegant after-dinner treat. This dessert is perfect for special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or holiday gatherings. For a beautiful presentation, dust the top with additional powdered sugar just before serving and garnish the plate with fresh berries or a sprig of mint.