Best 20 Napoleons Recipes

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Napoleon pastries, also known as mille-feuilles, are a classic French dessert that consists of layers of puff pastry, pastry cream, and a glaze. The result is a light and airy pastry with a rich, creamy filling. Napoleons can be made with a variety of different fillings, including chocolate, fruit, and nuts, and can be decorated with a variety of toppings, such as powdered sugar, whipped cream, or fresh berries. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know to make the best napoleons, including the best puff pastry recipe, the best pastry cream filling, and the best glaze.

Let's cook with our recipes!

NAPOLEONS



Napoleons image

Golden puff pastry is layered with pastry cream and jam and then iced before being cut into bars.

Provided by Katherine

Categories     Bread     Yeast Bread Recipes

Time 2h

Yield 20

Number Of Ingredients 11

1 ½ (17.5 ounce) packages frozen puff pastry sheets, thawed
¼ cup cornstarch
4 cups milk, divided
⅓ cup cake flour
⅞ cup white sugar, divided
3 eggs, separated
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (12 ounce) jar apricot jam
3 cups sifted confectioners' sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
  • Roll out three sheets of puff pastry, each to the same size and a thickness of 1/8 inch. Prick with a fork, and place on baking sheets.
  • Bake in preheated oven until golden, about 10 minutes.
  • In a medium bowl, combine cornstarch and 1/2 cup milk with fingers until smooth. Stir in cake flour and half the sugar. Beat in egg yolks. Set aside.
  • In a saucepan over medium heat, bring remaining milk and remaining sugar to a rolling boil. Stir in egg yolk mixture; continue stirring and bring to a boil again. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla. Let cool.
  • In a small saucepan or in the microwave, heat the jam until runny.
  • Place one sheet of pastry on a board. Spread with cooled pastry cream to a thickness of 1/2 inch. Place a second pastry sheet over the cream. Brush with fruit glaze. Spread remaining pastry cream over glaze. Top with final pastry sheet and gently compress layers, using a baking sheet to press.
  • To make icing, beat together confectioners' sugar and lemon juice with enough of the egg whites to make a creamy consistency like that of a cream soup. Working quickly, color a small portion of the frosting with red food coloring. Frost the top and sides of the assembled pastry with white icing. Pipe parallel lines of red icing on top of dessert, then draw a pick or knife crosswise through icing to make the traditional design. Let icing set before cutting into bars.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 405.5 calories, Carbohydrate 60.5 g, Cholesterol 33.3 mg, Fat 16.4 g, Fiber 0.7 g, Protein 5.6 g, SaturatedFat 4.8 g, Sodium 133.2 mg, Sugar 37.1 g

NAPOLEONS



Napoleons image

Provided by Food Network

Time 4h50m

Yield 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 8

1 pound frozen puff pastry, thawed
Flour for rolling out pastry
2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup sugar
1 vanilla bean, slit lengthwise
9 egg yolks, at room temperature
Confectioner's sugar, to taste

Steps:

  • On a lightly floured surface roll out the pastry to 1/16-inch thick. Transfer pastry to a parchment-lined sheet pan and trim edges. With a fork prick surface all over and chill for 30 minutes. Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees. Cover pastry with a second piece of parchment paper and weight down with a second sheet pan. Bake pastry for 10 minutes. Remove top sheet pan and parchment and continue to bake for another 10 to 15 minutes or until golden brown. Transfer pastry to a cooling rack.
  • Make the filling: In a heavy saucepan combine the heavy cream, milk, and sugar. Using a knife scrape the seeds of the vanilla bean into the milk mixture and add the whole bean. Bring to a boil. Remove pan from heat and allow to steep for one hour. Discard the bean or reserve for another use.
  • Pre-heat the oven to 300 degrees. Whisk the yolks into the cooled milk mixture and strain through a fine sieve into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Place the dish in a larger roasting pan and add enough hot water to reach halfway up the side of the dish. Bake custard for 3/4 to 1 hour until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. let cool; cover and chill for several hours or overnight. To assemble: Transfer pastry to a flat surface. Using a ruler measure out three 3 1/2 x 11-inch strips. With a serrated knife carefully cut the pastry using a gentle sawing motion. With a paring knife cut the custard into two 3 1/2 x 11-inch strips and cut each strip in half crosswise. With a long, wide offset spatula transfer a piece of custard onto a strip of pastry, covering half of it. Transfer a second piece of custard to fill the first layer. Top with a second strip of pastry, smooth side up, and repeat process. If necessary, smooth the sides of the napoleon with a knife so that they are stacked neatly.
  • Using a serrated knife carefully slice the napoleon into individual serving pieces. Sift confectioner's sugar over the napoleon to form a thick coating. Heat skewers on stovetop burner until red-hot and brand the sugar with cross hatch marks.
  • Recommended drink: 1993 Passito di Pantelleria, Nuova Agricoltura

VANILLA CREAM NAPOLEONS



Vanilla Cream Napoleons image

These bakery shop beauties are fun to recreate in your home kitchen, using frozen puff pastry sheet and pudding mix.

Provided by By Arlene Cummings

Categories     Dessert

Time 40m

Yield 12

Number Of Ingredients 8

1 package (17.3 oz) frozen puff pastry sheets (2 sheets), thawed
1 package (6-serving size) vanilla instant pudding and pie filling mix
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup powdered sugar
3 to 4 teaspoons milk
1/3 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Steps:

  • Heat oven to 400°F. Lightly spray 2 cookie sheets with cooking spray. On lightly floured surface, unfold pastry sheets. Cut each sheet into 3 strips along fold marks. Place on cookie sheet; prick lightly with fork all over strips. Repeat with remaining pastry sheet and second cookie sheet.
  • Bake about 5 minutes. Prick surfaces of pastries with fork to prevent pastries from rising too much during baking. Bake 10 minutes longer or until golden brown. Remove pastries from cookie sheets; cool 10 to 15 minutes.
  • In large bowl, beat pudding mix, 2 cups milk, vanilla and sour cream with electric mixer on medium speed until soft pudding forms. Cover; refrigerate 10 to 15 minutes.
  • In small bowl, stir powdered sugar and 3 teaspoons milk. If icing is too thick, stir in another teaspoon milk until spreadable consistency.
  • On 1 pastry layer, spread about 3/4 cup pudding. Repeat with another pastry layer and 3/4 cup pudding. Top with third pastry layer. Spread icing over top. Set aside. Repeat to make second dessert with remaining pastries, pudding and icing.
  • In microwavable small bowl, microwave chocolate chips uncovered on High about 30 seconds or until chocolate can be stirred smooth. Drizzle chocolate back and forth across top of each dessert. Drag toothpick through chocolate and icing to create marbled appearance.
  • Cut desserts into 2-inch slices. Cover; refrigerate until ready to serve.

Nutrition Facts : ServingSize 1 Serving

LEMON CREAM AND RASPBERRY PHYLLO NAPOLEONS



Lemon Cream and Raspberry Phyllo Napoleons image

Categories     Milk/Cream     Citrus     Dessert     Bake     Kid-Friendly     Raspberry     Lemon     Summer     Chill     Bon Appétit     Kidney Friendly     Vegetarian     Peanut Free     Tree Nut Free     Soy Free     Kosher     Diabetes-Friendly     Small Plates

Yield Makes 6

Number Of Ingredients 10

Phyllo Squares
6 fresh phyllo pastry sheets or frozen, thawed
6 teaspoons (generous) sugar
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup chilled whipping cream
1 1/2 teaspoons powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup purchased lemon curd
2 1/2-pint baskets fresh raspberries or 2 cups frozen unsweetened, thawed, drained
Powdered sugar

Steps:

  • For Phyllo Squares:
  • Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly oil 2 large baking sheets. Stack phyllo sheets on work surface. Trim to 10 1/2-inch square (reserve scraps for another use). Place 1 phyllo square on work surface (cover remaining phyllo with plastic wrap and damp kitchen towel). Sprinkle with 1 generous teaspoon sugar. Top with second phyllo square. Brush lightly with melted unsalted butter. Sprinkle with 1 generous teaspoon sugar. Top with third phyllo square. Sprinkle with 1 generous teaspoon sugar. Cut phyllo stack into 9 equal stacked squares. Arrange stacked phyllo squares an prepared baking sheet. Repeat layering and cutting with remaining 3 phyllo sheets, sugar and butter making total of 18 stacked phyllo squares. Bake until phyllo is golden, about 10 minutes. Transfer baking sheets to racks and cool completely.
  • For Lemon Cream:
  • Beat cream, 1 1/2 teaspoons powdered sugar and vanilla in large bowl until medium peaks form. Whisk lemon curd in another medium bowl until smooth. Add to cream mixture. Beat to stiff peaks.
  • Spread 1 generous tablespoon lemon cream on each of 6 stacked phyllo squares. Top each with 6 raspberries. Layer each with 6 raspberries. Layer each with 1 phyllo square, 1 more tablespoon lemon cream and 6 raspberries (save any remaining lemon cream for another use). Top each with 1 phyllo square. Sift powdered sugar over desserts. (Can be prepared 8 hours ahead. Cover loosely and refrigerate).

RASPBERRY NAPOLEONS DESSERT



Raspberry Napoleons Dessert image

Raspberry Napoleons are an incredibly easy and tres delicieux summertime dessert. The combination of a crisp puff pastry with sweet cream cheese and raspberries is hard to beat. The size of Napoleons you make is really up to you. I find that a 3x3-inch square is usually a good size, but use your own discretion.

Provided by Baker's Daughter

Categories     Desserts     Fruit Dessert Recipes     Raspberry Dessert Recipes

Time 35m

Yield 16

Number Of Ingredients 7

1 (17.5 ounce) package frozen puff pastry, thawed
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
½ cup white sugar
2 tablespoons 35% heavy whipping cream
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 pint fresh raspberries
3 tablespoons confectioners' sugar, or as needed

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
  • Roll out 1 puff pastry sheet on a floured work surface until it is 1/4-inch thick. Cut into 16 squares. Transfer to a baking sheet and prick all over with a fork. Repeat with remaining puff pastry sheet.
  • Bake in the preheated oven until lightly browned on the top and bottom, 10 to 15 minutes. Let cool, about 10 minutes.
  • Combine cream cheese, white sugar, heavy cream, and lemon zest in a bowl. Mix by hand until smooth and glossy. Dollop cream cheese mixture over 16 squares. Spread out cream cheese mixture and cover with raspberries. Top with the remaining puff pastry squares and dust with confectioners' sugar.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 261.2 calories, Carbohydrate 23.7 g, Cholesterol 17.9 mg, Fat 17.3 g, Fiber 1.5 g, Protein 3.5 g, SaturatedFat 6.5 g, Sodium 118.4 mg, Sugar 8.6 g

EASY STRAWBERRY NAPOLEONS



Easy Strawberry Napoleons image

Layers of light, flaky pastry sandwich creamy vanilla filling and fresh strawberries. This easily-assembled dessert looks like you fussed for hours!-Taste of Home Cooking School, Greendale, Wisconsin

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Desserts

Time 30m

Yield 6 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 8

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed according to package directions
1 quart fresh strawberries, sliced
2 tablespoons sugar
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup cold whole milk
1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
2 cups whipped topping
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 400°. Unfold thawed puff pastry on cutting board. With a sharp knife, cut pastry into nine squares. Place on baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Bake 10-15 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pan to wire rack to cool completely. , In a large bowl, combine the strawberries, sugar and vanilla; set aside. In another bowl, whisk milk and pudding mix for two minutes. Let stand for 2 minutes or until soft set. Stir in whipped topping and until thoroughly blended. Cover and refrigerate. , To assemble, split puff pastry squares horizontally for a total of 18 squares. Set aside six tops. Place six of the remaining puff pastry pieces on individual serving plates. Spread about 1/4 cup pudding mixture over each pastry square. Top with a spoonful of strawberries and another piece of puff pastry. Spread remaining pudding mixture over pastry pieces. Top with remaining strawberries and reserved pastry tops. , In a microwave, melt chocolate chips; stir until smooth. Cool slightly. Transfer chocolate to a small, heavy-duty plastic bag. Cut a tiny corner from bag; squeeze chocolate over napoleons.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 464 calories, Fat 21g fat (10g saturated fat), Cholesterol 6mg cholesterol, Sodium 384mg sodium, Carbohydrate 65g carbohydrate (33g sugars, Fiber 6g fiber), Protein 6g protein.

CRAB APPETIZER NAPOLEONS



Crab Appetizer Napoleons image

Provided by Food Network

Categories     appetizer

Time 20m

Yield 12 servings

Number Of Ingredients 9

1/2 of a 17.3-ounce Pepperidge Farm® Puff Pastry Sheets (1 sheet), thawed
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon milk
1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 can (about 6 ounces) refrigerated pasteurized crabmeat, drained
4 green onions, sliced (about 1/2 cup)
1/2 cup sliced almond
Paprika

Steps:

  • Heat the oven to 400 degrees F.
  • Unfold the pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut the pastry sheet into 12 (2-inch) circles with a cutter. Place the pastry circles onto a baking sheet.
  • Bake for 15 minutes or until the pastries are golden brown. Remove the pastries from the baking sheet and let cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Split each pastry into 2 layers, making 24 in all.
  • Stir the cream cheese in a medium bowl until smooth. Stir in the milk, horseradish, black pepper and crabmeat.
  • Spread the crabmeat mixture on 12 bottom pastry layers. Top with the onions, almonds and top pastry layers. Sprinkle with the paprika.

CHOCOLATE NAPOLEONS



Chocolate Napoleons image

People will think you fussed over these impressive desserts from Roberta Strohmaier of Lebanon, New Jersey. She uses frozen puff pastry for the flaky shells and dresses up pudding mix for the yummy chocolate filling.

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Desserts

Time 40m

Yield 12 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 8

1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
2 cups cold whole milk
2 cups sour cream
2 packages (3.9 ounces each) instant chocolate pudding mix
TOPPING:
1 cup confectioners' sugar
2 tablespoons whole milk
2 ounces semisweet chocolate, melted and cooled

Steps:

  • On a lightly floured surface, roll pastry into a 12-in. square. Cut into twelve 4x3-in. rectangles. Place on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 400° for 9-12 minutes or until puffed and golden brown. Remove to wire racks to cool., In a small bowl, whisk milk and sour cream until smooth. Add pudding mix; whisk for 2 minutes or until blended. Refrigerate for 5 minutes. , To assemble, split each pastry in half. Spoon pudding mixture over bottom halves and replace tops. Combine confectioners' sugar and milk until smooth; drizzle over top. Drizzle with melted chocolate. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 366 calories, Fat 21g fat (12g saturated fat), Cholesterol 58mg cholesterol, Sodium 264mg sodium, Carbohydrate 36g carbohydrate (21g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 6g protein.

EGGPLANT AND ASPARAGUS NAPOLEONS



Eggplant and Asparagus Napoleons image

Provided by Giada De Laurentiis

Categories     appetizer

Time 43m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 9

1 large or 2 small eggplants, unpeeled, cut into 12 (1/2-inch thick) slices
16 medium asparagus spears (about 1 1/2 pounds), trimmed to 5-inch lengths
Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 (15-ounce) container whole milk ricotta
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano
Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Steps:

  • Place an oven rack in the center of the oven. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees F.
  • For the vegetables: Place a grill pan over medium-high heat, or preheat a gas or charcoal grill. Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill the eggplant until tender, about 4 minutes each side. Grill the asparagus for 3 to 4 minutes, turning occasionally until crisp-tender. When cool enough to handle, cut the asparagus in half crosswise.
  • For the filling: In a small bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, basil, Pecorino Romano, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
  • To assemble: Place 4 slices eggplant on a work surface. Spread each with 2 to 3 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture. Line 4 pieces of asparagus, side-by-side, on top. Place another slice of eggplant on top and repeat the layers. Top each napoleon with a slice of eggplant and place on a small baking sheet. Bake until warmed through, about 10 minutes, and serve.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 288 calorie, Fat 19 grams, SaturatedFat 11 grams, Cholesterol 62 milligrams, Sodium 457 milligrams, Carbohydrate 13 grams, Fiber 6 grams, Protein 19 grams, Sugar 5 grams

CHOCOLATE-HAZELNUT NAPOLEONS



Chocolate-Hazelnut Napoleons image

Weighting the puff pastry with an extra sheet pan while it blind-bakes is a classic way to get the crackle without the height and also gives the pastries a sleek, modern look.

Provided by Lillian Chou

Categories     Holiday 2018     Christmas     Christmas Eve     Dessert     Pastry     Hazelnut     Chocolate     Phyllo/Puff Pastry Dough     Entertaining     Winter     New Year's Eve

Yield 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 19

For hazelnut crème:
2 oz unsweetened chocolate, chopped
3/4 cup Nutella
1 cup chilled heavy cream
1 whole large egg
2 large egg yolks
1/3 cup sugar
1/4 cup water
1 tsp light corn syrup
For candied hazelnuts:
1/2 cup sugar
1 cup hazelnuts, toasted and any loose skins rubbed off
For pastry:
1 sheet frozen puff pastry (from a 17 1/4-oz package), thawed
2 Tbsp light corn syrup
1 1/2 tsp water
About 1/3 cup confectioners' sugar
Special Equipment
A candy thermometer; a long metal skewer (optional)

Steps:

  • Make hazelnut crème:
  • Melt chocolate with Nutella and keep warm.
  • Beat cream with an electric mixer until it just holds soft peaks, then chill.
  • Beat egg and yolks in cleaned mixer bowl with cleaned beaters at high speed until thick and pale, about 5 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, bring sugar, water, and corn syrup to a boil in a 1-qt heavy saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until sugar has dissolved. Continue to boil, undisturbed, until candy thermometer registers 238°F (soft-ball stage; you will need to tilt pan to get temperature), about 4 minutes.
  • Reduce mixer speed to medium and add hot sugar mixture to eggs in a slow steam (try to avoid beaters and side of bowl), then beat until mixture is pale, thick, tripled in volume, and completely cool, about 5 minutes.
  • Fold chocolate mixture into egg mixture. Fold in one third of whipped cream to lighten, then fold in remaining whipped cream gently but thoroughly. Chill at least 4 hours.
  • Candy hazelnuts:
  • Line a baking pan with foil (shiny side up).
  • Heat sugar in a heavy 10-inch skillet over medium heat, stirring with a fork to heat sugar evenly, until it starts to melt, then stop stirring and cook, swirling skillet occasionally so sugar melts evenly, until it is dark amber. Add hazelnuts, stirring until coated. Transfer to foil and cool completely, then coarsely chop.
  • Bake pastry:
  • Preheat oven to 400°F with rack in middle. Line a large heavy baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Roll out puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface with a lightly floured rolling pin into a 17- by 10-inch rectangle (about 1/8 inch thick). Transfer to baking sheet, then cover with a sheet of parchment and top with a heavy baking sheet or sheet pan to weight down. Bake until pale golden, 15 to 20 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, stir together corn syrup and water.
  • Remove top baking sheet and parchment. Generously brush pastry with corn syrup mixture and cover with parchment, then invert pastry and brush other side with corn syrup mixture. Replace parchment and baking sheet and bake until deep golden and crisp, 15 to 20 minutes more. Cool completely.
  • Using a serrated knife, trim edges of pastry, then halve lengthwise and cut each half into 8 equal rectangles for a total of 16 rectangles.
  • Assemble dessert:
  • Arrange 8 rectangles on a baking sheet and dust with confectioners' sugar to cover. (To mark pastry decoratively, see cooks' note, below.)
  • Dab a small amount of hazelnut crème in center of 8 plates, then put an undecorated pastry rectangle on top. Divide remaining hazelnut crème among pastry rectangles. Sprinkle with some of the candied hazelnuts and top with decorated pastry rectangles. Sprinkle with more candied hazelnuts.
  • Do Ahead
  • Hazelnut crème can be chilled up to 2 days. Candied hazelnuts keep in an airtight container 3 weeks. Pastry can be baked 2 days ahead and kept in an airtight container at room temperature.

STRAWBERRY NAPOLEONS



Strawberry Napoleons image

Provided by David Wells

Categories     Milk/Cream     Dairy     Fruit     Dessert     Strawberry     Summer     Pastry     Gourmet     Vegetarian     Pescatarian     Wheat/Gluten-Free     Peanut Free     Soy Free     Kosher

Yield Serves 6

Number Of Ingredients 7

For strawberry sauce:
1 (10-ounce) package frozen strawberries in syrup, thawed
1 cup granulated sugar
1 1/2 pound fresh strawberries (1 1/2 pints)
1 1/2 cups chilled heavy cream
12 Almond Lace Cookies
Confectioners sugar for dusting

Steps:

  • Make sauce:
  • Simmer strawberries in syrup with sugar, stirring, until sugar is dissolved, about 2 minutes. Cool to room temperature, then pur\ée in a blender.
  • Assemble napoleons:
  • Trim and quarter enough strawberries to measure 3 cups. Beat cream in a chilled bowl until it just holds stiff peaks.
  • Put 1 cookie on a plate and spread 1/2 cup whipped cream over it. Top with ‚ cup quartered strawberries and drizzle about 3 tablespoons sauce over them. Lean a second cookie at an angle over berries and lightly dust with confectioners sugar. Make 5 more napoleons in same manner.

MANDARIN ORANGE NAPOLEONS



Mandarin Orange Napoleons image

Chinese five-spice powder, sprinkled throughout the layers of phyllo dough, and an orange-cream cheese filling give this dessert a wonderful aroma.

Categories     Food Processor     Citrus     Dessert     Bake     Quick & Easy     Orange     Gourmet     Vegetarian     Pescatarian     Peanut Free     Tree Nut Free     Soy Free     Kosher

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 9

1/2 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
1/4 cup granulated sugar
4 (17- by 12-inch) phyllo sheets, thawed
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 1/2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
2 (11-ounce) cans mandarin oranges in light syrup, drained and syrup reserved
Confectioners sugar for dusting

Steps:

  • Put oven rack in middle position and preheat oven to 375°F.
  • Whisk together five-spice powder and 2 tablespoons granulated sugar in a small bowl.
  • Cover phyllo with overlapping sheets of plastic wrap and a dampened kitchen towel. Arrange 1 phyllo sheet on a large baking sheet, then brush with some butter and sprinkle with one third of spiced sugar. Make 2 more layers in same manner. Top with remaining phyllo sheet and brush with remaining butter. (For a corrugated look, invert a large rectangular cooling rack and place it on top of phyllo.)
  • Bake until golden, 12 to 15 minutes. Carefully remove cooling rack (if using) and transfer phyllo (in 1 piece) with 2 metal spatulas to another rack to cool.
  • While phyllo cools, blend together cream cheese, lemon juice, vanilla, 2 tablespoons reserved orange syrup (discard remainder), and remaining 2 tablespoons granulated sugar in a food processor until smooth. Transfer to a bowl and fold in oranges.
  • Break phyllo with your hands or cut with a serrated knife into 12 pieces. Arrange 1 piece of phyllo on a plate and top with a dollop of orange cream. Repeat layering and top with another piece of phyllo. Make 3 more napoleons in same manner. Dust with confectioners sugar.

RASPBERRY NAPOLEONS



Raspberry Napoleons image

You can vary your napoleons by using other berries and switching to chocolate pudding. We made this recipe with our Vanilla Pudding.

Provided by Martha Stewart

Categories     Food & Cooking     Dessert & Treats Recipes

Time 3h30m

Number Of Ingredients 6

All-purpose flour, for rolling pastry
1 sheet (half a 17.25-ounce package) frozen puff pastry, thawed
1/2 recipe cooled Vanilla or Chocolate Pudding
1 container (6 ounces) fresh raspberries
Confectioners' sugar, for dusting
Raspberry sauce, for serving (optional)

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 400 degrees. On a lightly floured surface, roll out puff pastry to a 10-by-15-inch rectangle. Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Prick pastry all over with a fork. Cover completely with another sheet of parchment paper; weight with another baking sheet (same size or slightly smaller) to prevent pastry from puffing up unevenly. Bake, occasionally pressing top sheet down, until pastry is golden, 30 to 40 minutes. Remove top sheet and parchment, and let pastry cool.
  • Transfer pastry to a cutting board. With a serrated knife, carefully trim and discard edges; cut into 12 equal pieces.
  • Dividing evenly, put a large dollop of pudding (2 to 3 tablespoons) on 8 of the 12 pastry pieces; top with raspberries and a little more pudding.
  • Assemble napoleons on serving plates: For each napoleon, stack two pieces of pastry already topped with pudding and raspberries, then top with a plain piece. Dust lightly with confectioners' sugar.
  • Make Raspberry Sauce (optional): In a small bowl, stir together 1/4 cup raspberry jam and 1 tablespoon water; pass through a fine-mesh sieve. Thin with additional water if needed.
  • Garnish plate with Raspberry Sauce, if desired.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 249 g, Fat 11 g, Fiber 3 g, Protein 5 g

ROASTED VEGETABLE NAPOLEONS



Roasted Vegetable Napoleons image

Categories     Potato     Tomato     Appetizer     Side     Roast     Vegetarian     Mozzarella     Ricotta     Rosemary     Eggplant     Zucchini     Winter     Thyme     Gourmet

Yield Serves 6

Number Of Ingredients 11

1/2 cup olive oil
1 pound eggplant, cut crosswise into 1/3-inch-thick slices
1 1/4 pounds zucchini, cut crosswise into 1/3-inch-thick slices
4 large plum tomatoes(about 1 1/4 pounds), cut into 1/3-inch-thick slices
2 medium red onions cut into 1/3-inch-thick slices
1 pound medium red potatoes, cut into 1/3-inch-thick slices
3/4 cup ricotta
1 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme leaves
1/2 pound mozzarella, cut into six 1/4-inch-thick slices
6 fresh rosemary sprigs
Accompaniment: orzo (rice-shaped pasta)

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 450°F. and brush 2 baking sheets with some of the olive oil.
  • Arrange as many vegetables as possible in one layer on sheets. Brush vegetables with some remaining oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast vegetables in middle and lower thirds of oven, switching positions of sheets in oven half way through roasting, until just tender and lightly browned, 10-15 minutes. Transfer vegetables as roasted to a tray, arranging them in one layer. Roast remaining vegetables in same manner. Vegetables may be roasted 1 day ahead, cooled completely, and chilled, layered between sheets of plastic wrap on trays and covered. Bring vegetables to room temperature before proceeding.
  • In a small bowl stir together ricotta, thyme, and salt and pepper to taste.
  • Put 1 eggplant slice on a lightly oiled baking sheet. Spread 1 tablespoon of ricotta mixture over eggplant. Cover ricotta mixture with 2 potato slices and layer with 2 zucchini slices, 1 onion slice, 1 mozzarella slice, 2 to 3 tomato slices, 2 zucchini slices, and 1 onion slice. Spread 1 tablespoon ricotta mixture over onion and top with 1 eggplant slice. Make 5 more napoleons using remaining vegetables, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella in same manner.
  • Insert a metal or wooden skewer through center of each napoleon to make a hole from top to bottom. Trim rosemary sprigs to 1-inch taller than napoleons and remove bottom leaves from each sprig, leaving about 1-inch of leaves around top. Insert 1 sprig into each napoleon and bake in middle of oven 5 minutes, or until mozzarella is melted and vegetables are heated through.

CHOCOLATE AND RASPBERRY NAPOLEONS



Chocolate and Raspberry Napoleons image

Chocolate hearts are layered with raspberry semifreddo ("half cold" in Italian), a frozen dessert similar to ice cream.

Provided by Martha Stewart

Categories     Food & Cooking     Dessert & Treats Recipes

Number Of Ingredients 10

3 half-pint containers of fresh raspberries (about 18 ounces) or 1 pound frozen raspberries
4 large egg yolks
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
2 tablespoons kirsch or champagne
3 large egg whites
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon superfine sugar
Bittersweet Chocolate Hearts
Confectioners' sugar, for garnish

Steps:

  • Line a 9-by-13-by-2-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Set aside. Place raspberries (if using fresh raspberries, reserve 1/2 cup for garnish) in a medium skillet over medium heat. Simmer until raspberries begin to break down and liquid is released, 4 to 5 minutes. Transfer raspberries to a food processor, and puree, about 20 seconds. Pass through a fine sieve. Set aside to cool.
  • Fill a large bowl with ice and water; set aside. Bring a stockpot 1/4 full of water to a boil. Let simmer. In a medium stainless-steel bowl, whisk together egg yolks, 2 tablespoons sugar, corn syrup, and kirsch or champagne; place over simmering water. Whisking constantly, cook until mixture thickens (when whisk is lifted over the mixture, the ribbonlike trail it leaves on the surface should hold its shape for 1 or 2 seconds), about 4 minutes. Transfer bowl to the ice-water bath; whisk mixture while it cools. Add 3/4 cup raspberry puree to mixture; whisk to combine. Set aside.
  • In an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat egg whites on high speed until frothy, about 30 seconds. While mixer is running, gradually add remaining 6 tablespoons sugar; beat until very stiff, 2 to 2 1/2 minutes. Transfer mixture to a bowl. Beat cream with whisk attachment until stiff; fold into egg whites.
  • Fold raspberry mixture into egg whites and cream. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan; cover with plastic wrap. Transfer to the freezer; freeze until hardened, at least 4 hours. This can be prepared up to 2 days in advance.
  • To make the raspberry sauce, stir superfine sugar into the remaining raspberry puree (about 2 tablespoons). Refrigerate until ready to serve.
  • To serve, use a heart-shaped cookie cutter (2 1/2 inches across at the widest point) to cut out 4 hearts from the semifreddo. Divide the raspberry sauce between 2 dessert plates. Place a chocolate heart, off center, on top of the raspberry sauce. Place a semifreddo heart on each chocolate heart and repeat layering until there are 3 layers of chocolate and 2 layers of semifreddo, ending with a chocolate heart. Garnish with the reserved fresh raspberries (if using), sift confectioners' sugar over the raspberries, if desired.

SHRIMP NAPOLEONS



Shrimp Napoleons image

Flaky and tender frozen puff pastry serves as the bread for these cold shrimp sandwiches. Bake the pastry and prepare the filling a day ahead, and assemble before guests arrive. -Mary Lou Wayman, Salt Lake City, Utah

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Appetizers

Time 35m

Yield 3 dozen.

Number Of Ingredients 8

1 package (17.3 ounces) frozen puff pastry, thawed
6 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon thinly sliced green onion
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
2-1/2 cups chopped cooked peeled shrimp
1/3 cup finely shredded carrot
4 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled

Steps:

  • Line 2 baking sheets with parchment. Unfold 1 puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut sheet into 9 squares, about 3 in. Cut each square in half, forming 18 rectangles. , Place on 1 prepared baking sheet. Repeat with remaining puff pastry. Bake at 425° for 12-15 minutes or until puffed and golden brown. Remove to a wire rack to cool., In a small bowl, beat the cream cheese, onion, mustard and Worcestershire sauce until well blended. Stir in the shrimp, carrot and bacon. , To assemble, use a fork to split each pastry in half horizontally. Spread a rounded tablespoonful of cream cheese mixture over the bottom halves; replace tops. Refrigerate until serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 99 calories, Fat 6g fat (2g saturated fat), Cholesterol 21mg cholesterol, Sodium 98mg sodium, Carbohydrate 8g carbohydrate (0 sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 4g protein.

MINIATURE NAPOLEONS



Miniature Napoleons image

It can be a challenge to come up with an elegant dessert that works well for a cocktail party. These impressive, bite-sized sweets are easy to eat while mingling.-Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Desserts

Time 40m

Yield 4-1/2 dozen.

Number Of Ingredients 10

6 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup 2% milk
1 large egg yolk, beaten
2 tablespoons butter, divided
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
2 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped

Steps:

  • In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, cornstarch and salt. Stir in milk until smooth. Cook and stir over medium heat until thickened and bubbly. Reduce heat; cook and stir 1 minute longer., Remove from the heat. Stir a small amount of hot mixture into egg yolk; return all to the pan, stirring constantly. Bring to a gentle boil; cook and stir 1 minute longer. Remove from the heat. Stir in 1 tablespoon butter and vanilla. Cool to room temperature without stirring. Refrigerate until chilled., Unfold puff pastry; place on an ungreased baking sheet. Prick dough thoroughly with a fork. Bake according to package directions. Remove to a wire rack to cool., In a small bowl, beat cream until stiff peaks form. Fold into custard. Use a fork to split pastry in half horizontally. Spread filling over the bottom half; replace top. Cover and freeze for 4 hours or until firm. , Cut into 1-1/2x1-in. rectangles. In a microwave, melt chocolate and remaining butter; stir until smooth. Drizzle over pastries. Freeze until serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 49 calories, Fat 3g fat (1g saturated fat), Cholesterol 8mg cholesterol, Sodium 32mg sodium, Carbohydrate 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, Fiber 0 fiber), Protein 1g protein.

ASPARAGUS NAPOLEONS WITH ORIENTAL BLACK BEAN SAUCE



Asparagus Napoleons with Oriental Black Bean Sauce image

Categories     Ginger     Vegetable     Asparagus     Spring     Phyllo/Puff Pastry Dough     Gourmet

Yield Serves 6 as a first course

Number Of Ingredients 16

For the pastry rectangles
1/2 pound frozen puff pastry, thawed
an egg wash made by beating 1 large egg yolk with 2 teaspoons water
For the sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/3 cup water
2/3 cup chicken broth
1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 1/2 tablespoons Scotch or medium-dry Sherry
2 teaspoons sugar
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 tablespoon fermented black beans (available at Oriental markets and specialty foods shops), rinsed well and drained
2 tablespoons fine julienne strips of orange zest
1 1/2 tablespoons minced peeled fresh gingerroot
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 1/2 pounds asparagus, trimmed and peeled

Steps:

  • Make the pastry rectangles:
  • Roll out the pastry 1/8 inch thick on a lightly floured surface, cut out six 5- by 2-inch rectangles, and transfer them to a dampened baking sheet. Brush the tops of the rectangles with some of the egg wash, being careful not to let the egg wash drip down the sides, score them in a crosshatch pattern with the back of a paring knife, and brush them again with some to the remaining egg wash. Bake the rectangles in the upper third of a preheated 400°F. oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden, transfer them with a spatula to racks, and let them cool. The pastry rectangles may be made 1 day in advance, kept in an airtight container at room temperature, and reheated. Halve the rectangles horizontally with a serrated knife and with a fork pull out carefully any uncooked dough.
  • Make the sauce:
  • In a small bowl dissolve the cornstarch in the water and stir in the broth, the soy sauce, the Scotch, and the sugar. In a heavy saucepan heat the oil over moderately high heat until it is hot but not smoking and in it stir-fry the beans, the zest, the gingerroot, and the garlic for 1 minute, or until the mixture is very fragrant. Stir the broth mixture and add it to the bean mixture. Bring the sauce to a boil, stirring, simmer it for 2 minutes, and keep it warm. The sauce may be made 1 day in advance, kept covered and chilled, and reheated.
  • In a large deep skillet of boiling salted water cook the asparagus for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the stalks are just tender but not limp, and drain it well. Arrange the bottom half of each pastry rectangle on a plate and divide the asparagus among the pastries. Spoon the sauce over the asparagus and around the pastries on each plate and top the asparagus with the top halves of the pastries.

BANANA-CARAMEL NAPOLEONS



Banana-Caramel Napoleons image

These easy and elegant napoleon pastries feature layers of sliced bananas, store-bought dulce de leche, whipped cream, and toasted coconut.

Provided by Martha Stewart

Categories     Food & Cooking     Dessert & Treats Recipes

Time 30m

Number Of Ingredients 6

1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed and cut into 6 rectangles
3/4 cup cold heavy cream
1 tablespoon confectioners' sugar
2 bananas, sliced thinly on the diagonal
1/2 cup store-bought dulce de leche
1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut, toasted

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place puff pastry rectangles on a parchment-lined rimmed baking sheet. Bake until golden and puffed, 15 minutes. Remove and let cool on a wire rack. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, using an electric mixer, beat cream and sugar on high until stiff peaks form, 2 to 3 minutes.
  • With a serrated knife, cut rectangles in half horizontally. Reserve 4 tops. Divide banana slices among 4 pastry bottoms, then drizzle with dulce de leche. Use 2 pastry bottoms and 2 pastry tops to make middle layers. Layer with whipped cream and coconut, then top with reserved pastry tops. Serve immediately.

EASY STRAWBERRY NAPOLEONS RECIPE - (3.9/5)



Easy Strawberry Napoleons Recipe - (3.9/5) image

Provided by june

Number Of Ingredients 7

3 sheets frozen phyllo dough, thawed
butter-flavored cooking spray
cinnamon/sugar
1/2 cup whipped cream or non-dairy topping
1 cup vanilla pudding
sliced strawberries
confectioners' sugar

Steps:

  • Heat oven to 350 degrees. Have ready 3 sheets frozen phyllo dough, thawed. Spray 1 sheet of phyllo with butter-flavored cooking spray, then sprinkle with cinnamon sugar; top with a second sheet of phyllo, cooking spray, and cinnamon sugar. Top with remaining sheet. Cut into 12 squares. Transfer to a baking sheet and bake 8 to 10 minutes until puffed and crisp. Fold 1/2 cup whipped cream or topping into 1 cup vanilla pudding. For each Napoleon, top a pastry square with some pudding mixture and sliced berries. Repeat layer, then top with a pastry squared. Dust with confectioners' sugar.

Tips:

  • For a classic Napoleon, use a flaky puff pastry dough. You can either make your own or buy it pre-made.
  • To make the pastry cream, use whole milk for a richer flavor. You can also add vanilla extract, almond extract, or other flavorings to taste.
  • When assembling the Napoleon, brush the pastry sheets with melted butter before stacking them. This will help to prevent them from sticking together.
  • Chill the Napoleon for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will help to set the pastry cream and make it easier to slice.
  • Serve the Napoleon with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Conclusion:

The Napoleon is a delicious and impressive dessert that is perfect for any special occasion. With its layers of flaky pastry, creamy filling, and fresh berries, it is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it. So next time you are looking for a special dessert to make, give the Napoleon a try. You won't be disappointed!

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