Napoleon Cake, also known as Mille-feuille, is a classic Ukraine dessert made of multiple layers of flaky puff pastry filled with rich and creamy custard. Perfect for special occasions or a delightful indulgence.
- Cooking Time
11 hour - Difficulty
Medium - Cost
13$
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup ice-cold water
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and cut them into the flour using a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Mix water and vinegar, then gradually add to the flour mixture. Stir until the dough begins to come together.
- Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Prepare the Custard Cream:
- In a medium saucepan, heat the milk until just boiling. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, egg yolks, and flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in the hot milk.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and comes to a boil. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Stir in vanilla extract and softened butter until fully incorporated. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming. Let it cool to room temperature.
- Bake the Puff Pastry Layers:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Divide the chilled dough into 8 equal parts. Roll each part into a thin rectangle (about 1/8 inch thick).
- Place each rolled-out dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Prick all over with a fork to prevent puffing.
- Bake each layer for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.
- Assemble the Napoleon Cake:
- Place one puff pastry layer on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of custard cream over the top.
- Repeat with the remaining layers, finishing with a pastry layer on top.
- Press down gently to set the layers together. Spread a thin layer of custard on the top and sides if desired.
- Dust the top generously with powdered sugar.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the layers to soften and meld together.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Napoleon Cake is a decadent and impressive dessert with its layers of crispy pastry and velvety custard. It’s a perfect centerpiece for any celebration or simply to treat yourself to a slice of culinary heaven.
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