Strawberry flank
Strawberry flan – a quick and fragrant dessert, perfect for any occasion
Who can resist a dessert that combines the crispy texture of puff pastry with the delicacy of vanilla cream and the sweetness of fresh strawberries? The strawberry flan is an ideal choice for any sweet lover, being a simple and quick recipe, but with a remarkable visual and taste impact. Whether it’s a romantic dinner, a gathering with friends, or simply a treat after a long day, this dessert will not disappoint.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 40-45 minutes
Servings: 8
Necessary ingredients:
- 500 g fresh strawberries
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (about 230 g)
- 1 packet of red gelatin (or similar gelling agent)
- Vanilla cream:
- 250 ml milk
- 1 packet of bourbon vanilla or 1 vial of vanilla essence
- 2 egg yolks
- 65 g powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
Helpful tip: Choose ripe and fragrant strawberries for an intense flavor. You can check their freshness by smell; a strong aroma is a good sign.
Preparing the vanilla cream:
1. Start by heating the milk in a small saucepan, adding the vanilla. It is important not to let the milk boil too hard, just to heat it well.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with powdered sugar and cornstarch. Gradually add a little of the warm milk, stirring constantly to avoid curdling the yolks.
3. Once the milk has started to boil, gradually add the yolk mixture, continuously stirring with a whisk to avoid lumps.
4. Put the mixture back on low heat and continue stirring. Let it boil for a few minutes until the cream thickens. It is essential to stir constantly to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pan.
5. Once the cream is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, ensuring the wrap touches the cream to prevent a skin from forming.
Preparing the puff pastry base:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°C. Cut the puff pastry sheet into squares of the desired size. If you want individual servings, 10 cm by 10 cm squares are perfect.
2. Place the puff pastry squares on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Use a fork to make a few holes in each square; this will help avoid excessive puffing during baking.
3. Bake the pastry for 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy. Once done, let it cool completely.
Assembling the flan:
1. Once the puff pastry has cooled, prepare the vanilla cream, which should now be cool. Use a spoon or piping bag to evenly distribute the vanilla cream over the puff pastry.
2. Slice the strawberries thinly and arrange them nicely on top of the cream. You can use whole strawberries for a more elegant look or cut them into the desired shape.
3. Prepare the gelatin according to the instructions on the packet and pour it evenly over the strawberries to protect them and give a shiny appearance.
4. Let the flans chill for about an hour so that the gelatin sets and the flavors meld.
Serving and variations:
The strawberry flan is served cold, making it ideal for warm summer days. You can garnish it with fresh mint leaves for an extra touch of freshness or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant appearance.
If you want to experiment, you can replace the strawberries with other seasonal fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or peaches for a varied and flavorful dessert. Also, for a simpler version, try using vanilla pudding or strawberries instead of vanilla cream.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of puff pastry?
Yes, you can use store-bought or homemade puff pastry, but make sure it is thick enough to support the cream and fruits.
2. How can I store the flan?
The flan keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is best when freshly made.
3. Can this dessert be frozen?
It is not recommended to freeze the flan, as the texture of the puff pastry will change. It is better to consume it fresh.
Nutritional benefits:
Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, having beneficial effects on the immune system and digestive health. Additionally, the vanilla cream provides a source of calcium from milk, and the egg yolks contribute essential proteins.
In conclusion, the strawberry flan is a quick, delicious, and colorful dessert that will delight both the eyes and the taste buds. Experiment with the ingredients, customize it to your preferences, and enjoy the sweet moments you will create around the table. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: Ingredients: 500g strawberries, 1 sheet of puff pastry, 1 packet of red jelly powder, vanilla cream. For the vanilla cream: 250ml milk, 1 packet of Bourbon vanilla or 1 vial of vanilla essence, 2 egg yolks, 65g powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons cornstarch.
