Vanilla Custard Mille-Feuille Recipe

Vanilla custard mille-feuille, also known as Napoleon pastry, is a classic French dessert featuring layers of flaky puff pastry filled with rich vanilla custard and topped with a glossy icing or dusting of powdered sugar. This elegant treat is perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to impress with a homemade pastry.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicate and flaky texture – Buttery, crispy puff pastry contrasts beautifully with the smooth custard.
• Rich and creamy filling – A luscious vanilla custard that melts in your mouth.
• Elegant and impressive – Perfect for entertaining or indulging in a gourmet dessert.
• Customizable – Add fresh berries, chocolate drizzle, or flavored custards for variation.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Puff Pastry:

• Frozen puff pastry sheets, thawed
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

For the Vanilla Custard Filling:

• Whole milk
• Egg yolks
• Granulated sugar
• Cornstarch
• Vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
• Unsalted butter

For the Glaze (Optional):

• Powdered sugar
• Milk
• Vanilla extract
• Melted chocolate (for decorative drizzle)

Directions

1. Prepare the Puff Pastry

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Roll out the puff pastry sheets slightly and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Prick the pastry with a fork to prevent excessive puffing.
• Place another sheet of parchment paper and a second baking sheet on top to keep the pastry flat while baking.
• Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Let cool completely.

2. Make the Vanilla Custard

• In a saucepan, heat the milk until warm but not boiling.
• In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
• Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously.
• Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
• Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract and butter, and let cool completely. Cover with plastic wrap to prevent skin from forming.

3. Assemble the Mille-Feuille

• Trim the cooled puff pastry layers to uniform size if needed.
• Place one pastry sheet on a serving plate and spread an even layer of vanilla custard over it.
• Add another layer of pastry and repeat the custard layer.
• Top with the final pastry sheet.

4. Prepare the Glaze (Optional)

• Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
• Spread a thin layer over the top pastry sheet.
• (Optional) Drizzle melted chocolate in thin lines and use a toothpick to create a marbled effect.

5. Chill and Serve

• Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing to allow the custard to set.
• Slice carefully with a serrated knife and serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 slices
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Chilling Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Variations

• Berry Mille-Feuille – Add fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries between the custard layers.
• Chocolate Custard – Swap vanilla custard for chocolate pastry cream.
• Coffee-Flavored Mille-Feuille – Add espresso powder to the custard for a coffee-infused twist.
• Caramel Glaze – Drizzle caramel sauce over the top instead of icing.
• Almond Crunch – Sprinkle toasted almond slices between layers for extra texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Mille-feuille is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze unassembled baked puff pastry sheets for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Serve chilled or at room temperature; do not reheat.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought custard?

Yes! Store-bought pastry cream or custard can save time if you’re in a hurry.

How do I keep the puff pastry crisp?

Assemble the mille-feuille just before serving or store the puff pastry separately to prevent sogginess.

What’s the best way to cut mille-feuille neatly?

Use a serrated knife and gently saw through the layers to avoid crushing them.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the custard and bake the pastry in advance, then assemble closer to serving time.

How do I prevent my custard from being runny?

Make sure to cook the custard until thickened, and let it cool completely before using.

Can I make a dairy-free version?

Yes! Use plant-based milk and butter substitutes for the custard and dairy-free puff pastry.

Can I use homemade puff pastry?

Absolutely! Homemade puff pastry will make this dessert even more special.

What’s the difference between mille-feuille and Napoleon?

They are similar, but a Napoleon often features almond-flavored pastry cream, while mille-feuille traditionally uses vanilla custard.

Can I make individual portions?

Yes! Cut the pastry into smaller rectangles and assemble mini mille-feuilles for easy serving.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container, but eat within a couple of days for the best texture.

Conclusion

Vanilla custard mille-feuille is a stunning and delicious French pastry that combines crisp, flaky layers with smooth, creamy custard. Whether you serve it as an elegant dessert for a gathering or enjoy it as a personal treat, this mille-feuille is sure to impress. Try different variations and enjoy this classic pastry at home!

Print