1. Activate the Yeast:
Begin by activating the yeast, which is the secret to getting those pastry balls to puff up beautifully. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar, then sprinkle in the yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This process ensures your dough will rise to pillowy perfection.
2. Create the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and softened butter. Once mixed, make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir gently until a dough begins to form. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour or until doubled in size.
3. Prepare the Cream Filling:
While your dough is rising, let’s make the luscious cream filling. In a medium bowl, whisk the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. If you want a richer filling, fold in the cream cheese for added decadence. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag and chill in the refrigerator until ready to use.
4. Whip Up the Berry Compote:
In a small saucepan, combine the mixed berries, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently until the berries break down and the sauce thickens. This compote will add a burst of flavor to each bite. Let it cool completely.
5. Shape the Pastry Balls:
Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down to release the air. Divide it into small, golf ball-sized pieces. Flatten each piece slightly and add a teaspoon of cream filling and a dollop of berry compote in the center. Carefully pinch the dough around the filling to form a ball, making sure it is sealed completely.
6. Bake to Golden Perfection:
Place the filled pastry balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a little room between each one. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let the pastry balls rest for 15 minutes before baking. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
7. Final Touches:
Once baked, remove the pastry balls from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Dust them generously with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh berries for that extra touch of elegance.
Pro Tips for Dessert Success:
- Ingredient Quality Matters: Use the freshest berries you can find to make sure your compote has the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Keep It Light: Whip your cream to stiff peaks but be careful not to overmix. This ensures the filling stays light and airy, which contrasts beautifully with the tender pastry.
- Sealing the Dough: Take your time sealing the dough around the filling to prevent it from leaking during baking.
Why You’ll Love These Pastry Balls:
These pastries are the ultimate treat—imagine the satisfying crunch of the pastry shell as you bite into it, followed by the creamy filling and the tangy-sweet berries bursting with flavor. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of tea or serve them as a showstopper dessert at a dinner party, these pastry balls are sure to be a hit.
Bonus Content Alert:
You can even freeze these pastries after shaping them and bake them fresh whenever you need a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert. Just thaw and bake as usual!
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So why wait? Gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to create these irresistible cream and berry-filled pastry balls that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth.