Weight Watchers-Friendly Puff Pastry Cream
Ingredients:

  • 1 sheet of light puff pastry (store-bought)
    • Points: 10-12 points per sheet (depending on the brand and serving size)
    • Nutritional Benefits: Light puff pastry is lower in fat and calories compared to traditional puff pastry.

For the Cream Filling:

  • 1 cup fat-free milk
    • Points: 2 points
    • Nutritional Benefits: Fat-free milk is lower in calories and fat, providing calcium and protein.
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
    • Points: 1 point
    • Nutritional Benefits: Cornstarch helps thicken the cream without adding a lot of calories.
  • 1/4 cup sugar substitute (like Stevia or Monk Fruit)
    • Points: 0 points
    • Nutritional Benefits: Sugar substitutes help reduce the sugar content, making it a lower-calorie dessert.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • Points: 0 points
    • Nutritional Benefits: Vanilla adds flavor without adding extra points or calories.
  • 2 egg yolks
    • Points: 4 points
    • Nutritional Benefits: Egg yolks provide richness and texture to the cream filling, along with nutrients like vitamin D and choline.
  • 1/4 cup fat-free whipped topping (optional for added creaminess)
    • Points: 1 point
    • Nutritional Benefits: Fat-free whipped topping adds volume and lightness to the cream without adding many points.

Directions:

Prepare the Puff Pastry:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to smooth out any creases.
  3. Cut the puff pastry into squares or rectangles, depending on your desired size.
  4. Place the cut pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffy.
  6. Allow the puff pastry to cool completely.

Prepare the Cream Filling:

  1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the fat-free milk, cornstarch, and sugar substitute until smooth.
  2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to thicken.
  3. In a small bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks.
  4. Gradually whisk a small amount of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks to temper them.
  5. Slowly add the tempered egg yolks back into the saucepan, whisking constantly.
  6. Continue cooking until the cream filling thickens and reaches a smooth, creamy consistency.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
  8. If desired, fold in the fat-free whipped topping for a lighter, creamier texture.
  9. Let the cream filling cool slightly before assembling.

Assemble the Puff Pastry Cream:

  1. Slice the cooled puff pastry pieces in half horizontally.
  2. Spoon or pipe the cream filling onto the bottom half of each puff pastry piece.
  3. Place the top half of the puff pastry over the cream filling.
  4. Dust with powdered sugar (optional) or drizzle with a sugar-free glaze.

Enjoy: Serve these puff pastry creams as a light, airy dessert that’s both satisfying and Weight Watchers-friendly.

Serving Size:

  • Makes 8 servings (depending on the size of your puff pastry pieces).

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: Approximately 100-120 kcal
  • Weight Watchers Points: 3-4 points per serving (depending on the specific ingredients used)

Tips:

  • Make Ahead: Prepare the cream filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to assemble.
  • Customize the Flavor: Add a touch of lemon zest, almond extract, or cocoa powder to the cream filling for a unique twist.
  • Portion Control: Cutting the puff pastry into smaller squares helps manage portion sizes and keep points low.

Benefits:

  • Lower in Fat and Calories: This version of puff pastry cream is designed to be lighter, reducing the overall fat and calorie content.
  • High in Protein: The use of fat-free milk and egg yolks provides a good source of protein, making the dessert more filling.
  • Rich in Calcium: The milk in the cream filling adds calcium, which is essential for bone health.

Enjoy this Puff Pastry Cream dessert while staying on track with your Weight Watchers goals!