Cream horns, also known as lady locks or cream-filled horns, are delightful pastry treats made from flaky puff pastry or a similar pastry dough that is rolled into a cone shape and filled with sweet, creamy fillings. They are a popular dessert and snack option and can be enjoyed in various flavors. Here’s a basic recipe for making cream horns:
Ingredients:
For the Pastry:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Granulated sugar (for sprinkling)
For the Cream Filling:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh berries or fruit (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the puff pastry package or around 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Pastry Cones:
- If using store-bought puff pastry, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to smooth out any creases.
- Cut the pastry into strips that are about 1 inch wide and 6-8 inches long.
- Starting at the tip of each strip, wrap it around a cream horn mold, rolling it up diagonally to create a cone shape. Make sure the pastry edges overlap slightly to prevent unraveling during baking.
- Place the wrapped pastry cones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam side down.
- Egg Wash: Beat the egg and brush it over the pastry cones. This will give them a golden color when baked. Sprinkle granulated sugar over the cones for a sweet, crispy texture.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the pastry cones for about 15-20 minutes or until they are puffed up and golden brown. Keep a close eye on them to prevent over-browning.
- Cool: Once the pastry cones are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. Carefully slide the cream horn molds out of the pastry shells once they have cooled.
- Prepare the Cream Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed.
- Fill the Cream Horns: Use a piping bag or a spoon to fill each pastry cone with the prepared whipped cream. You can also add fresh berries or fruit to the cream if desired.
- Serve: Once filled, your cream horns are ready to serve. They are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for a short time to maintain their crispness.
Cream horns are a delightful treat that you can customize with various fillings and toppings, such as chocolate, custard, or flavored creams. They make for a beautiful and tasty addition to dessert tables and special occasions.
