Mascarpone Puff Pastry

Name: Mascarpone Puff Pastry
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); 1 cup mascarpone cheese; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Zest of 1 lemon; Fresh berries (for garnish, optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the layers of flaky pastry and rich mascarpone cheese in this elegant dessert.

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-22T21:57:33.464Z

This Mascarpone Puff Pastry combines the light, flaky texture of puff pastry with the rich creaminess of mascarpone cheese, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich creaminess of mascarpone cheese paired with flaky pastry
Easy to make yet looks incredibly impressive
Perfect for any celebration or as a sweet indulgence

      

The Allure of Puff Pastry

Puff pastry, with its delicate layers and flaky texture, is a timeless favorite in baking. This versatile pastry can be used for both sweet and savory dishes, making it a staple in many kitchens. Its unique ability to rise and create a light, airy feel is what sets it apart from other pastries. When baked, the layers separate beautifully, resulting in a delightful crunch that complements the rich fillings it encases.

Using store-bought puff pastry not only saves time but also guarantees consistent results. It's the secret weapon of many home bakers, allowing you to create impressive desserts like the Mascarpone Puff Pastry without the hassle of making dough from scratch. Just a few simple techniques can elevate this humble pastry into a gourmet treat that will impress your guests.

Why Mascarpone Cheese?

Mascarpone cheese is a luxurious Italian cream cheese known for its rich, velvety texture and mildly sweet flavor. This ingredient adds a unique depth to desserts, making them more indulgent. Its high-fat content ensures that the filling remains creamy and smooth, perfectly complementing the lightness of the puff pastry.

In addition to its delightful taste, mascarpone is incredibly versatile. It can be flavored in numerous ways, as seen in this recipe with vanilla and lemon zest. These flavors not only enhance the cheese's natural sweetness but also provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pastry, making each bite a harmonious experience.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While this Mascarpone Puff Pastry is delightful on its own, you can elevate it further with a few creative serving ideas. A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate sauce can add an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal. Fresh berries offer a pop of color and a hint of tartness that balances the richness of the filling perfectly.

For a twist on the classic recipe, consider experimenting with different flavor profiles. Adding a hint of espresso to the mascarpone filling can create a delightful coffee-infused treat, or incorporating seasonal fruits like peaches or strawberries can bring a fresh, fruity aspect to this elegant dessert. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients

For the Puff Pastry

1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

For the Mascarpone Filling

1 cup mascarpone cheese
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon
Fresh berries (for garnish, optional)

Feel free to substitute the berries with your favorite fruits!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Puff Pastry

Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut it into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference.

Add Egg Wash

Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg to help seal the edges when baking.

Make the Mascarpone Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Mix until smooth.

Fill the Pastry

Place a spoonful of the mascarpone filling in the center of each pastry square.

Seal and Bake

Fold the pastry over the filling to create a pocket and pinch the edges to seal. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve

Let the pastries cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh berries if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Mascarpone Puff Pastry!

Tips for Perfect Puff Pastry

To achieve the best results with your puff pastry, it’s crucial to keep it cold throughout the process. Warm pastry can become difficult to work with and may not puff up as expected when baking. If your kitchen is warm, consider chilling the pastry in the refrigerator for a short while before cutting and filling.

When baking, ensure that your oven is fully preheated. This helps the pastry to rise quickly, creating those signature flaky layers. Placing the pastries on parchment paper can prevent sticking and make for an easier cleanup.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, storing them properly is essential to maintain their texture and flavor. Keep the puff pastries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, keep in mind that the pastry may lose some of its crispiness over time.

For the best experience, consider reheating the pastries in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes before serving. This will help revive their flaky texture and make them taste freshly baked again.

Pairing Beverages

To complement your Mascarpone Puff Pastry, consider serving it with a warm cup of coffee or tea. The rich flavors of a dark roast coffee or the soothing notes of a chamomile tea can enhance the dessert experience, making it even more enjoyable.

For a more festive occasion, a glass of dessert wine or sparkling wine can elevate the dish to a whole new level. The sweetness of the wine, combined with the creamy mascarpone and flaky pastry, creates a luxurious dessert pairing that is sure to impress your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought puff pastry?

Yes, store-bought puff pastry is a convenient option and works perfectly for this recipe.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, the mascarpone filling can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

→ Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pastries. Just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.