Decadent flaky berry pastry with a velvety creamy lemon sauce

This flaky red berry dessert is a delicious combination of crispy, buttery pastry and a rich, tangy lemon cream sauce, topped with a generous amount of vibrant red berries. The combination of flaky layers and creamy filling creates a textured and flavourful masterpiece that is both refreshing and indulgent. Perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress your guests, this dessert is as beautiful as it is delicious. The vibrant colours of the berries and golden pastry make it a feast for the eyes, while the harmonious blend of sweet and tangy flavours ensures it is a crowd pleaser.

Why you'll love this:

This dessert stands out for its unique combination of flavors and textures. The crispy layers of baklava dough provide the perfect contrast to the smooth, creamy lemon sauce, while the burst of fresh berries adds a delicious tartness. Using simple, wholesome ingredients makes this dessert both approachable and impressive, perfect for those who like to experiment with different tastes and presentations. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or a more formal event, this dessert is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Perfect opportunity:

This layered red berry pastry is perfect for any gathering where you want to serve something a little different and extra special. It’s perfect for spring and summer events when berries are in season, but it can also brighten up a winter table with its bright colors and fresh flavors. Consider serving it at holiday dinners, birthday parties, or any other occasion where you want to offer a sophisticated yet satisfying dessert.

Decorating tips:

For an elegant presentation, dust the finished dessert with powdered sugar just before serving. You can also garnish the dessert with a few whole berries for an extra pop of color. Serving the dessert on a large white platter will make the colors pop. For an added touch, consider placing a few fresh mint leaves around the edges for a pop of green that complements the red berries and makes the dessert look fresh and vibrant.

Ingredients:

• 16 sheets of baklava dough
• 100 grams of butter

For the sauce:

• 3 eggs
• 300 ml of thick cream
• Grated zest of 2 lemons
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons strained yogurt
• 1 sachet vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 cup sugar
• A bowl of mixed red berries (frozen or fresh, such as blueberries)

For the filling:

• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

1. Prepare the dough:
   • Take the baklava dough sheets in pairs. Lay the first sheet on a flat surface and brush it lightly with melted butter. Place the second sheet on top and brush it again with butter. Gently scrunch the sheets together and roll them into a loose spiral. Place the spiral in the center of a greased round baking dish (about the size of a large pie plate). Continue with the remaining dough sheets, arranging them around the center spiral of the dish. If your dish is too small, consider using a larger dish for a thinner, crispier dessert. Once all the dough is arranged, brush the top with more butter.
2. Cook the dough:
   • Preheat your oven to 190°C (374°F). Place the prepared pastry in the oven and bake until the top is golden brown, which should take about 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don't burn.

3. Prepare the sauce:
   • While the pastry is baking, make the lemon cream sauce. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the strained yogurt, cornstarch, lemon juice, and grated lemon zest, continuing to whisk until well combined. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add them to the creamed mixture, stirring well to ensure everything is fully incorporated.
4. Assemble the dessert:
   • Once the crust is cooked, remove it from the oven and carefully pour the lemon cream sauce over the entire dish, making sure to coat the entire crust. Sprinkle the mixed berries generously over the top, distributing them evenly. Return the dish to the oven and bake until the sauce is set and the top is golden brown, about 25 to 30 minutes.
5. Let cool and serve:
   • Let the dessert cool for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to blend and the sauce to firm up. Just before serving, dust the top with icing sugar for a beautiful finish. Cut into slices and enjoy the delicious contrast of crisp pastry, creamy lemon sauce, and juicy berries.

Appreciate!