Celebrate the Holidays with French Cream: A Decadent Gâteau Napoléon au Praliné Recipe

This festive season, the French Dairy Board and the European Union are highlighting the versatility and richness of French cream — a cornerstone of culinary excellence.

The Soul of Desserts: French Cream

Renowned for its silky texture and unmatched flavour, French cream transforms every dessert into an art form. Produced under the strictest quality standards in France, it guarantees a creamy, smooth taste and unparalleled stability, making it the perfect choice for festive creations. Whether you’re whipping, folding, or enriching a dish, French cream adds an elegant touch of luxury.

“French cream is not just an ingredient—it’s the essence of fine pâtisserie. Its richness and smoothness bring unparalleled depth to every recipe,” shares Cindy Khoo, Executive Pastry Chef from Hilton Orchard.

A Culinary Journey in Singapore

Singapore has been at the heart of a celebration of French cream through a series of engaging and educational events. Highlights include: workshops/ hands-on sessions at ITE and At-Sunrice GlobalChef Academy, inspiring the next generation of pastry chefs. There were also trade events showcasing French cream’s versatility to pastry chefs through innovative pastry demonstrations and discussion.

Participants were left inspired by the unique qualities of French cream. “The workshop changed how I approach my recipes. I appreciate how French cream enhances both texture and flavour,” says Amy, a ITE pastry student. A chef at a trade event participant, adds, “This wasn’t just about using cream—it was about innovation. French cream opens up a world of possibilities in the kitchen.”

Looking Ahead to 2025

The journey continues into the next year with more events, workshops, and collaborations that showcase the magic of French cream. Stay tuned for fresh opportunities to explore this quintessential ingredient, as this luscious French product inspire culinary professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Gâteau Napoléon au Praliné recipe

• Preparation Time: 35 minutes (+ overnight chilling)
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Serves: 6

Ingredients

For the pastry:

• 350 g flour
• 250 g cold butter (cubed)
• 5 g salt
• 1 egg
• 150 g French Cream
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar

For the cream filling:

• 2 egg yolks
• 25 g cornstarch
• 100 g sugar
• 250 g milk
• 2 gelatin sheets
• 100 g praline paste
• 200 g chilled heavy French cream

Method

1. Prepare the pastry: Combine flour, butter, and salt, and mix until crumbly. Mix egg, crème fraîche, and vinegar separately, then combine with the flour mixture. Knead lightly, roll, and refrigerate overnight.
2. Make the filling: Heat milk until boiling. Whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch, then slowly add the hot milk. Cook until thickened. Turn off the heat, stir in gelatin and praline paste. Chill.
3. Assemble: Roll and bake pastry layers until golden. Whip heavy cream, fold into the praline mixture, and layer between the pastry sheets. Top with crushed praline and roasted hazelnuts.

To discover more recipes with French cream by renowned chefs from Asia, visit the CREAM ESSENTIAL website: https://www.creamessential.eu/