Limoncello Custard Millefoglie πβ¨

A delicate Italian dessert featuring layers of crisp, golden puff pastry, luscious limoncello-infused custard, and a light whipped cream topping. This elegant treat is perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to impress with a beautiful, citrusy pastry.
Ingredients:
For the Puff Pastry Layers:
- 1 sheet store-bought puff pastry (or homemade, if preferred)
- 1 tbsp powdered sugar (for dusting)
For the Limoncello Custard:
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 4 egg yolks
- Β½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- ΒΌ cup (60ml) limoncello liqueur
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Whipped Cream Topping:
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp limoncello (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh berries (raspberries or blueberries work well)
- Lemon zest
- Mint leaves
- Extra powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry Layers
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C).
- Roll & Cut the Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet slightly and cut it into three equal rectangles.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the rectangles on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Prick the surface all over with a fork to prevent excessive puffing.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
- Dust with Sugar: Once cooled, lightly dust with powdered sugar.
Step 2: Make the Limoncello Custard
- Heat the Milk & Cream: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk and heavy cream. Heat until it just starts to simmer, then remove from heat.
- Whisk Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, granulated sugar, limoncello, lemon zest, and cornstarch until smooth and pale.
- Temper the Eggs: Slowly pour the warm milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking continuously to prevent curdling.
- Thicken the Custard: Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the custard thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
- Finish & Cool: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming), and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Step 3: Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping
- Whip the Cream: In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and limoncello (if using) with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
- Set Aside: Keep chilled until ready to use.
Step 4: Assemble the Millefoglie
- Cut the Pastry Layers in Half: Once the pastry rectangles have cooled, carefully cut each in half horizontally to create six thin layers.
- Layer the Custard: Place one pastry layer on a serving plate and spoon a generous amount of the limoncello custard on top. Spread evenly.
- Repeat Layers: Add another pastry layer and repeat the process, finishing with a pastry layer on top.
- Garnish: Sprinkle the top with powdered sugar, pipe or dollop the whipped cream, and garnish with lemon zest, fresh berries, and mint leaves.
Serving Tips:
- Serve immediately for a crispy texture, or let it sit in the fridge for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
- For a more elegant touch, drizzle with a little extra limoncello before serving.
Storage:
- Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
This Limoncello Custard Millefoglie is a refreshing, creamy, and indulgent dessert that brings the flavors of Italy straight to your table! πβ¨