Irresistible Cream and Berry-Filled Pastry Balls: A Sweet Delight for All Occasions

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### **How to Make Irresistible Cream and Berry-Filled Pastry Balls**

#### **Step 1: Prepare the Pastry**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a clean surface. Cut the pastry into small squares, approximately 2 to 3 inches in size. If you prefer larger balls, cut larger squares.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the pastry squares on it, leaving a little space between each.
4. Lightly beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the pastry squares for a golden finish. Optionally, sprinkle a small amount of sugar over the top for added sweetness and texture.
5. Bake the pastry squares in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden and puffed up. Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely.

#### **Step 2: Prepare the Cream Filling**
1. In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with a spoonful of the whipped cream to make it smoother and easier to combine.
3. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined, resulting in a smooth and fluffy cream filling.

#### **Step 3: Prepare the Berry Filling**
1. In a small saucepan, add the mixed berries and sugar. Heat over medium heat for a few minutes, gently mashing the berries as they cook to release their juices.
2. Once the mixture starts to bubble, stir in the lemon juice for added brightness (optional). Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
3. Remove the berry sauce from heat and allow it to cool. You can also strain the mixture to remove seeds if desired.

#### **Step 4: Assemble the Pastry Balls**
1. Once the pastry has cooled, carefully slice each pastry square in half to create two layers.
2. Spoon a generous amount of the creamy filling onto the bottom layer of each pastry.
3. Add a teaspoon of the berry mixture on top of the cream.
4. Place the top layer of pastry on top to form a “sandwich.” Gently press down to ensure the filling stays inside.

#### **Step 5: Serve and Enjoy**
1. For an extra touch of elegance, dust the assembled pastry balls with a little powdered sugar or top with additional fresh berries.
2. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to a couple of hours before serving. These pastries are best enjoyed fresh but will keep their appeal for a short time if stored in the fridge.

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### **Tips for the Best Cream and Berry-Filled Pastry Balls**

– **Use Fresh, Juicy Berries**: For the best berry filling, use fresh berries that are in season. If using frozen berries, make sure to drain off any excess liquid before cooking them.
– **Make It Ahead**: You can prepare the cream filling and berry sauce ahead of time, storing them separately in the fridge for up to a day. Just assemble the pastry balls before serving.
– **Pastry Variations**: If you want a flakier pastry, consider using phyllo dough instead of puff pastry. For a sweeter treat, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream filling.
– **Experiment with Flavors**: While berries are classic, feel free to experiment with other fruits, such as peaches, cherries, or even a chocolate ganache filling for a different twist.

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### **Why You Should Make These Pastry Balls**

These **Cream and Berry-Filled Pastry Balls** are a perfect blend of crispy pastry, luscious cream, and the vibrant flavor of berries. They’re easy to make yet incredibly impressive, making them the ideal choice for birthdays, holiday parties, or just a simple afternoon treat. With their combination of textures and flavors, they are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Enjoy these delightful treats with family and friends, and watch them disappear as quickly as they were made!