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Lemon Cream Puffs with Lemon Curd

Flaky puff pastry filled with mascarpone cream and homemade lemon curd.
Top with fresh mixed berries and powdered sugar.
Bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes until golden and puffed.

Ingredients
  

Puff Pastry

  • 1 puff pastry sheet
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • 1/3 cup coarse sugar 66 g

Mascarpone Frosting

  • 3/4 cup cold whipping cream 177 ml
  • 2/3 cup powdered sugar 82 g
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup mascarpone cheese 169 g
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest

Lemon Curd

  • 3 tbsp lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice 60 ml
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar 66 g
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter room temperature (42 g)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/8 tsp salt

To Assemble

  • 1 cup mixed berries
  • Powdered sugar

Instructions
 

  • Thaw the puff pastry.
  • Leave the puff pastry at room temperature for 30 to 40 minutes, or until it is soft enough to unfold without cracking. You can also microwave it by wrapping it in paper towels and heating it for 15 seconds on each side. If needed, microwave for a few additional seconds.
  • Cut the pastry.
  • Cut the pastry sheet into 6 rectangles, approximately 4.5 x 3.5 inches. Slight variations in size are fine.
  • Score the pastry.
  • Place the rectangles on a parchment-lined or silicone-lined baking sheet. Score the top of each rectangle with a knife without cutting completely through the pastry. This will create an area that can be pressed down after baking to hold the filling.
  • Add the egg wash and sugar.
  • Whisk the egg and milk together. Lightly brush the mixture over each pastry rectangle, then sprinkle with coarse sugar.
  • Bake.
  • Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. If your oven runs hot or you are using convection, bake at approximately 375°F (190°C). Baking time can vary between ovens.
  • Cool completely.
  • Transfer the baked pastries to a cooling rack and let them cool completely before adding the fillings.
  • Make the mascarpone frosting.
  • Beat the cold whipping cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Add the lemon zest, mascarpone cheese, and vanilla. Continue whipping until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Avoid overwhipping.
  • Make the lemon curd.
  • Beat the room-temperature butter, granulated sugar, and lemon zest in an electric mixer at medium speed until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, allowing each egg to become fully incorporated before adding the next.
  • Cook the curd.
  • Add the salt and lemon juice and mix on low speed. The mixture may look separated or curdled at this stage, which is normal. Pour it into a small, heavy-bottomed saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly.
  • Finish the lemon curd.
  • Continue stirring until the curd becomes very thick and creamy. Do not allow it to boil. When it reaches approximately 170°F, remove it from the heat and pour it into a heatproof bowl. Refrigerate until completely chilled.
  • Assemble the pastries.
  • Use a knife to cut around the scored area on top of each cooled pastry. Gently press down the center to create a space for the filling. Pipe or spoon in the mascarpone frosting, then add lemon curd.
  • Add the finishing touches.
  • Top each pastry with mixed berries and lightly dust with powdered sugar. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Notes

For an easier make-ahead dessert, prepare the lemon curd up to 1 week in advance and keep it refrigerated in an airtight container. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months and thawed in the refrigerator before use.
For a slightly different flavor, replace some of the mixed berries with sliced strawberries or use blueberries and raspberries for a colorful topping. The mascarpone filling can also be flavored with a little extra lemon zest for a stronger citrus flavor.
For the crispest texture, assemble the pastries shortly before serving. If refrigerated after assembly, allow them to sit at room temperature briefly before serving.