Puff Pastry Fruit Baskets Recipe

If you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a delightful homemade dessert, these Puff Pastry Fruit Baskets are the perfect choice. Crispy, golden layers of puff pastry are filled with luscious raspberry jam, silky custard cream, and topped with fresh berries and edible flowers. They’re as beautiful as they are delicious!

What You’ll Need – Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s everything you need to create these charming dessert baskets, broken down by component:

Puff Pastry Baskets

• 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)

• Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tbsp water or milk)

Raspberry Jam

• 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries

• ½ cup sugar

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Custard Cream

• 2 cups whole milk

• ½ cup sugar

• 3 tbsp cornstarch

• 1 pinch sea salt

• 4 egg yolks

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• Flavoring:
  Choose one –
  • ½ vanilla bean
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • A few citrus peels
  • 1 tsp orange blossom water

For Garnish

• Fresh berries (like blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries)

• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

• Edible flowers (optional but adds a beautiful touch)

Let’s Bake: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Creating the Puff Pastry Baskets

1. Preheat the Oven
   Set your oven to 190°C (375°F).

2. Cut and Shape the Pastry

   • Cut the puff pastry into circles using a cookie cutter or glass.

   • From half of these circles, cut out smaller circles in the center to form rings.

   • Stack each ring on top of a solid circle. For extra height, add another ring and use egg wash to stick layers together.

3. Bake to Perfection

   • Place the assembled baskets on a parchment-lined baking tray.

   • Brush the tops with egg wash.

   • Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.

   • Let them cool completely before filling.

Step 2: Making the Basket Handles

1. Cut and Twist

   • Slice thin strips of puff pastry (around 3–4 mm wide and 10 cm long).

   • Twist them gently to form spirals.

2. Bake the Twists

   • Place on a baking tray, brush with egg wash.

   • Bake for 10–12 minutes until beautifully golden.

Homemade Raspberry Jam – Bursting with Flavor

1. Cook the Berries
   In a small saucepan, combine the raspberries and sugar. Lightly mash them with a spoon.

2. Add Lemon and Simmer
   Add the lemon juice, bring the mixture to a boil while stirring.

3. Reduce and Thicken
   Skim off any foam, lower the heat, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until the jam thickens. Set aside to cool.

Silky-Smooth Custard Cream

1. Mix the Base
   In a pot, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, salt, and milk.

2. Cook Slowly
   Heat the mixture on low, whisking constantly until it thickens into a custard consistency.

3. Add Flavor and Butter
   Remove from heat, stir in butter and your choice of flavoring (vanilla, citrus peel, etc.). Let cool.

Time to Assemble Your Masterpiece

1. Layer the Fillings
   Spoon a layer of raspberry jam into each puff pastry basket.
   Add a generous dollop of custard cream on top.

2. Attach the Handle
   Gently press one twisted pastry strip (the handle) into the cream to secure it in place.

3. Final Touches
   Top with fresh berries, edible flowers, and a light dusting of powdered sugar.

Serving Tips

These Puff Pastry Fruit Baskets are best served fresh, slightly chilled or at room temperature. They’re perfect for:

• Afternoon tea parties

• Special occasions like Mother’s Day or bridal showers

• Elegant dessert tables

• Gifting in decorative boxes

Pro Tips for Success

• Keep puff pastry cold before cutting—it puffs up better.

• Don’t overfill the baskets or the custard may spill.

• Make ahead: You can prepare the jam and custard a day in advance to save time.

A Dessert That’s Almost Too Pretty to Eat

These Puff Pastry Fruit Baskets not only taste incredible, but they also add a touch of whimsy and elegance to your dessert table. Whether you’re baking for loved ones or simply indulging in a creative kitchen moment, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ready to bake your own edible art? Give it a try and let the compliments roll in!

You can also try:

Apple Pastries Recipe