Irresistible Pastry Balls Filled with Cream and Berries

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pastry Shells

1. In a food processor, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the chilled butter pieces and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, and pulse until the dough starts to come together.
3. Gather the dough into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Once chilled, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface. Cut into small circles using a cookie cutter.
5. Place the circles in a mini muffin tin or a similar mold to shape small pastry shells. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Berry Compote

1. In a small saucepan, combine the berries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the berries start to release their juices, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the cornstarch mixture and stir continuously until the compote thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

1. In a bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
2. If desired, fold in the heavy cream to create a lighter, fluffier texture. Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Pastry Balls

1. Take each cooled pastry shell and fill it halfway with the cream cheese mixture.
2. Add a dollop of the berry compote in the center, then top with a little more cream cheese filling to enclose the berries.
3. Gently shape each filled shell into a round ball.

Step 5: Coat the Pastry Balls

1. Dip each pastry ball in the melted white chocolate to lightly coat the exterior.
2. Roll in the chopped nuts, sprinkles, or white chocolate shavings, ensuring an even coating all around.
3. Place the coated pastry balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for about 15-20 minutes to set.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Arrange the pastry balls on a serving plate and enjoy their beautiful presentation. Cut one in half to reveal the creamy and fruity filling inside.
2. Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture. These treats can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Tips for Perfect Pastry Balls

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the pastry dough ensures a flaky and tender shell. Don’t skip this step!
• Balance the Sweetness: Adjust the sugar in the berry compote and cream cheese filling to your taste. You can also add a pinch of salt to the filling to enhance the flavors.
• Customize the Coating: Get creative with the coatings. Crushed graham crackers, coconut flakes, or even cocoa powder can add a unique twist.

Variations to Try

• Chocolate Hazelnut Delight: Fill the pastry balls with a mix of Nutella and cream cheese, and coat them with crushed hazelnuts and chocolate sprinkles.
• Tropical Paradise: Use mango or pineapple compote in the center, and roll the balls in toasted coconut flakes for a tropical flavor.
• Lemon Raspberry Bliss: Add some lemon zest to the cream cheese filling and use raspberry compote. Coat with white chocolate and yellow sprinkles for a zesty touch.