Peach Millefeuille

Peach Millefeuille is a refined and elegant French-inspired dessert composed of delicately layered puff pastry, airy whipped cream, and luscious peach preserves. Finished with a dusting of powdered sugar and fresh peach slices, it’s a visually stunning treat that perfectly balances crispness, creaminess, and fruity sweetness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert offers everything you could want from a sophisticated pastry—flaky layers of golden puff pastry, rich yet light whipped cream, and the bright, natural sweetness of peaches. It’s easy to assemble with store-bought puff pastry, yet it looks and tastes like something from a patisserie. Ideal for special occasions or an elevated afternoon treat, this recipe is as delightful to serve as it is to enjoy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• puff pastry sheet (store-bought or homemade)
• heavy cream
• powdered sugar
• vanilla extract
• peach preserves
• fresh or canned peach, sliced
• powdered sugar, for dusting

Directions

Prepare the Puff Pastry:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to ensure even thickness.
3. Cut the pastry into rectangles, approximately 2×4 inches in size.
4. Place the rectangles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Let cool completely before assembling.

Whip the Cream:
6. In a chilled mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
7. Beat with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Set aside.

Assemble the Millefeuille:
8. Place one piece of cooled puff pastry on a serving plate.
9. Spoon or pipe a layer of whipped cream over the pastry, then add a few peach slices or a spoonful of peach preserves.
10. Top with another puff pastry rectangle and repeat the layers: whipped cream, peaches or preserves.
11. Finish with a final layer of puff pastry on top.

Garnish:
12. Lightly dust the top with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
13. Optionally, add additional peach slices or drizzle extra preserves over the top for decoration.

Serve:
14. Carefully slice into portions with a serrated knife. Serve immediately for best texture, alongside tea or coffee.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6–8 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories: 250 kcal per serving

Variations

• Berry Twist: Replace peaches with strawberries, raspberries, or a berry compote.
• Cream Cheese Whip: Add a few tablespoons of softened cream cheese to the whipped cream for added richness.
• Nutty Finish: Sprinkle chopped pistachios or almonds between layers for crunch.
• Lemon Zest: Add a touch of lemon zest to the whipped cream for a citrus note.
• Chocolate Glaze: Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the top for added elegance.

Storage/Reheating

Peach Millefeuille is best served fresh, as the puff pastry softens over time. However, assembled millefeuille can be refrigerated for up to 1 day in an airtight container. The puff pastry layers can be baked and stored separately in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This dessert does not require reheating and is intended to be served chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make the puff pastry from scratch?

Yes, though store-bought puff pastry saves time and still delivers excellent results. Homemade pastry offers a flakier, richer texture if you prefer a from-scratch approach.

Can I make the whipped cream in advance?

Yes, whipped cream can be made a few hours ahead. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Can I use canned peaches?

Yes, canned peaches work well. Be sure to drain them thoroughly and pat dry to prevent excess moisture in the dessert.

How do I keep the puff pastry crisp?

Assemble the millefeuille just before serving to maintain crisp layers. Storing it for too long once assembled may cause the pastry to soften.

Can I use jam instead of preserves?

Yes, but peach preserves typically have a chunkier texture and more intense flavor. Jam or compote can also be used.

What’s the best way to slice this dessert?

Use a serrated knife and a gentle sawing motion to prevent the cream and filling from spilling out during slicing.

Is this dessert suitable for freezing?

Freezing is not recommended once assembled, as the whipped cream and puff pastry will lose their texture when thawed.

Can I make a large version instead of individual portions?

Yes, assemble it as a whole and slice just before serving. Be cautious during cutting to preserve the layers.

What other fruits pair well with this recipe?

Mango, apricot, nectarine, or a mix of summer berries are excellent alternatives or additions to peach.

Can I serve this warm?

It’s best served chilled or at room temperature. Heating will melt the whipped cream and soften the pastry layers.

Conclusion

Peach Millefeuille is a show-stopping dessert that delivers impressive presentation and a sophisticated flavor profile with minimal effort. With flaky layers, creamy filling, and juicy peaches, this dish is an exquisite addition to any dessert table—perfect for celebrations or an elevated treat at home. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this elegant pastry is sure to delight.