Napoleans
Delicate Napoleon pastries feature flaky layers filled with sweetened cream cheese and topped with rich chocolate, perfect for elegant desserts or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thaw pastry according to package directions.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- On a floured surface, roll pastry to 15 x 12 inches; cut into thirds lengthwise.
- Place pastry sheets on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Prick pastry with a fork to prevent puffing.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until golden and crisp.
- In a bowl, stir together cream cheese, 1/4 cup sugar, and almond extract.
- Fold in whipped cream until smooth.
- Spread the cheese mixture over two pastry sheets.
- Stack the sheets with cheese filling, then top with the remaining pastry sheet.
- In a small bowl, stir together 1/2 cup sugar and milk until smooth.
- Spread the milk and sugar mixture over the top layer of pastry.
- Drizzle with melted chocolate.
- Chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure your pastry is rolled evenly to achieve a consistent texture. For a lighter filling, consider using mascarpone instead of cream cheese. If you prefer a different flavor, vanilla extract can replace almond extract. For a sweeter touch, add a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top before serving, similar to how it's done with Shirley's Diabetic Tea Cakes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Napoleans with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of fresh berries for a delightful contrast. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them an excellent dessert option after a meal. For a complete treat, consider accompanying them with a slice of French Raspberry Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the pastry's crispness, it's best to keep the filling separate until ready to serve. If the layers soften, a quick reheat in a toaster oven can help restore some crispness without overcooking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Napoleans contains roughly 12 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just keep the pastry layers separate until you're ready to assemble, ensuring they stay crisp and fresh.
What can I use instead of whipping cream?
If you don't have whipping cream, you can substitute it with a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream or use whipped topping. However, keep in mind that this may change the flavor and texture slightly.
How do I prevent the pastry from burning?
Keep an eye on the pastries as they bake, checking them at the 8-minute mark. Ovens can vary in temperature, so if they are browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly or cover with foil until they finish baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).