Sweet Childhood Memories: Karpatka with Peas Puffs – Creamy Delight with a Crunchy Accent

August 12, 2025 by admin

ADVERTISEMENT

**For the Cream Filling:**

* 2 cups milk
* 1/2 cup sugar
* 1/4 cup cornstarch
* 2 egg yolks
* 1 tsp vanilla extract
* 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

**For the Crunchy Accent:**

* 1/2 cup crispy peas puffs (lightly salted or plain)

**Optional:** Powdered sugar for dusting

—

### **Instructions**

1. **Make the Choux Pastry:**

* Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
* In a saucepan, bring water and butter to a boil. Add flour and salt all at once. Stir vigorously until the dough forms a ball.
* Let cool slightly, then beat in eggs one at a time until the dough is smooth.
* Spread half of the dough into a greased baking dish and bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden and puffed. Repeat with the second half. Let both layers cool completely.

2. **Prepare the Custard Cream:**

* In a pot, whisk together milk, sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks.
* Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
* Let cool to room temperature, then beat in softened butter until creamy and smooth.

3. **Assemble the Cake:**

* Place one pastry layer in your serving dish. Spread custard evenly over it.
* Gently press peas puffs into the cream layer. You can fold some into the cream or keep them whole for a bolder crunch.
* Top with the second pastry layer. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

4. **Chill & Serve:**

* Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing. Serve cold for best texture.

—

### **Tips for Success**

* **Work quickly** with the choux dough to maintain puffiness.
* **Choose the right peas puffs** – lightly salted ones complement the cream best.
* **Chill well** before serving – this dessert sets beautifully and slices clean when cold.
* **Make ahead** – Karpatka tastes even better the next day!

—

### **Final Thoughts**

This **Karpatka with Peas Puffs** is more than just a dessert — it’s a tribute to tradition and creativity. It brings back the familiar warmth of childhood sweets but dares to take a bold, crunchy leap forward. Whether you’re sharing it with family, surprising guests, or just treating yourself to something truly unique, this recipe is sure to win hearts and spark conversations.

So go ahead. Revisit a classic. Add a little crunch. Make it your own.

—

Would you like help creating a printable version or turning this into a social media post or recipe video script? Just let me know!