Napoleon in a glass dessert

Here’s a detailed, step-by-step recipe for Napoleon in a Glass—all the classic flavors of the Napoleon (mille-feuille) dessert, layered beautifully without the fuss of slicing pastry.

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Ingredients

For the pastry layers

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

For the vanilla custard (pastry cream)

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 4 egg yolks

• 1/4 cup cornstarch

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the whipped cream layer

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional garnish

• Crushed puff pastry

• Powdered sugar

• Chocolate drizzle or fresh berries

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Equipment

• Saucepan

• Whisk

• Mixing bowls

• Hand mixer

• Baking sheet

• Parchment paper

• Serving glasses or dessert cups

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Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Bake the puff pastry

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Roll out puff pastry slightly and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

3. Prick all over with a fork to prevent excessive puffing.

4. Dust lightly with powdered sugar.

5. Bake for 15–18 minutes, until golden and crisp.

6. Cool completely, then break into small flaky pieces.

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Step 2: Make the vanilla custard

1. In a saucepan, heat milk over medium heat until warm but not boiling.

2. In a bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.

3. Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously.

4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until thickened.

5. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract.

6. Transfer custard to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap touching the surface, and let cool completely.

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Step 3: Prepare the whipped cream

1. In a cold bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.

2. Refrigerate until ready to assemble.

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Step 4: Assemble the dessert

1. Spoon a layer of custard into the bottom of each glass.

2. Add a layer of puff pastry pieces.

3. Add a layer of whipped cream.

4. Repeat the layers until the glass is full, finishing with custard or whipped cream on top.

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Step 5: Garnish and chill

1. Top with crushed pastry, powdered sugar, or chocolate drizzle.

2. Refrigerate for 30–60 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

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Tips for the Best Napoleon in a Glass

• Keep pastry pieces crisp by layering just before serving.

• Use clear glasses to show off the layers.

• For extra richness, fold some whipped cream into the custard to make diplomat cream.

• This dessert can be assembled a few hours ahead, but add pastry on top at the last minute for crunch.