Napoleon in a Glass

About This Recipe

This recipe is a simplified, no-bake version of the classic Napoleon cake. It utilizes store-bought puff pastry to create layers of crispy pastry and rich custard, all assembled in a glass for a quick and elegant individual dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert requires minimal effort and no baking skills. It is fast to assemble, uses readily available ingredients, and provides the familiar flavors and textures of a traditional Napoleon without the time-consuming process of making and rolling out multiple layers of dough.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet of ready-made puff pastry
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to the temperature specified on the puff pastry package (typically 400°F / 200°C).
2. Place the puff pastry sheet on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Prick it all over with a fork.
3. Bake according to package directions until golden brown and puffed. Allow it to cool completely.
4. Once cool, break the baked pastry into small, bite-sized pieces or crumbs.
5. To make the custard, heat the milk in a saucepan until it just begins to steam; do not boil.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until pale and slightly thickened.

1. Add the flour and cornstarch to the egg mixture, whisking until smooth.
2. Gradually pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling.
3. Pour the entire mixture back into the saucepan. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the custard thickens and comes to a low boil.
4. Remove from heat and whisk in the vanilla extract and softened butter until the butter is fully melted and incorporated.
5. Transfer the custard to a bowl, press plastic wrap directly onto its surface to prevent a skin from forming, and refrigerate until completely cool.
6. To assemble, place a layer of pastry pieces at the bottom of a glass. Add a layer of cooled custard. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of pastry crumbs on top.
7. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.

FAQ

You Must Know

It is crucial to allow both the baked pastry and the cooked custard to cool completely before assembling. Assembling with warm components will make the pastry layers soggy.

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