Chocolate Strawberry Mille-Feuille

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Mille-Feuille
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 package puff pastry (thawed if frozen); Flour for dusting; 200g dark chocolate (chopped); 200ml heavy cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 250g fresh strawberries (sliced); 1 tablespoon sugar

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore making this Chocolate Strawberry Mille-Feuille, as it beautifully combines rich chocolate and fresh strawberries in a stunning layered dessert. Each bite transports me to a world of creamy delight, with the delicate crispness of the puff pastry perfectly complementing the luscious filling. Perfect for special occasions or a delightful family treat, this recipe brings joy to anyone who tries it. It's a treat that looks impressive, yet is surprisingly simple to whip up at home, making it a must-try for any chocolate lover.

Created by

Gwendolyn Reed

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:37:08.329Z

After several attempts to perfect my mille-feuille technique, I discovered that letting the pastry rest properly allows for a dazzling flakiness that I simply can't resist. I experimented with fillings until I settled on a blend of whipped cream and chocolate ganache, which adds that decadent richness with a hint of bittersweet cocoa. The addition of fresh strawberries elevates the dessert, giving it an inviting pop of color and flavor.

One key tip I learned is to use cold ingredients when preparing the puff pastry. This ensures the layers remain distinct and crispy, even after being filled. When I finally plate the slices, the contrast between the crispy pastry and the creamy filling takes it to a whole new level of indulgence. I can’t wait for you to try it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Indulgent layers of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries
Crispy puff pastry that contrasts beautifully with creamy filling
A stunning presentation that impresses at gatherings

      

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

For this Chocolate Strawberry Mille-Feuille, the quality of your chocolate is crucial. Opt for a high-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content. This ensures a rich, deep flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the strawberries. The chocolate should melt smoothly when mixed with the heavy cream, resulting in a lush filling that complements the crisp textures of the puff pastry.

Similarly, fresh strawberries are key to enhancing the overall flavor profile of your dessert. Choose berries that are ripe and fragrant, as they will provide a natural sweetness and bright acidity. If strawberries are out of season, you can consider using raspberries or peaches as a substitute, but keep in mind that both will impart a different taste profile to the final dessert.

Expert Tips for Puff Pastry Perfection

When working with puff pastry, be careful not to over-handle it. The goal is to keep the layers intact so they can puff up beautifully in the oven. Ensure your surface is well-floured, and if you're working in a warm environment, consider chilling the pastry briefly before rolling it out. This helps maintain the butter's integrity, resulting in a lighter, flakier final product.

It's also worth noting that you can prepare the puff pastry in advance. Once baked and cooled, store the pastry layers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Don't refrigerate them, as moisture will make them lose their crispness. Simply re-bake at 180°C (350°F) for a few minutes if needed before assembling your mille-feuille.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting to streamline the process.

For the Puff Pastry

1 package puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
Flour for dusting

For the Chocolate Filling

200g dark chocolate (chopped)
200ml heavy cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Layer

250g fresh strawberries (sliced)
1 tablespoon sugar

Ensure all components are prepared and ready for assembly.

Instructions

Follow these steps to assemble your Chocolate Strawberry Mille-Feuille.

Prepare the Puff Pastry

Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut it into rectangular pieces. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Prick the surface with a fork to prevent puffing too much while baking. Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool.

Make the Chocolate Filling

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it begins to simmer, then pour over the chopped dark chocolate. Stir until smooth and fully combined. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well. Allow it to cool slightly until it thickens.

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with sugar and let them sit for about 10 minutes until they release their juices.

Assemble the Mille-Feuille

Layer the baked puff pastry, spreading a layer of chocolate filling, followed by a layer of sliced strawberries. Repeat until you have three layers. Top with another pastry piece and dust with powdered sugar.

Allow the assembled mille-feuille to chill in the fridge for an hour before serving for best results.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a splash of liqueur to the chocolate filling, or substitute with white chocolate for a different twist.

Storing and Serving Your Mille-Feuille

Once assembled, the Chocolate Strawberry Mille-Feuille is best enjoyed fresh, ideally within a few hours. However, if you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The pastry may soften, but the flavors will still delight your palate. To revive some of the crispness, you can briefly reheat the dessert in an oven set to low heat for a few minutes before serving.

For an elegant presentation, consider topping each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprig of fresh mint. This adds an inviting touch and enhances the visual appeal, making it an ideal centerpiece for special occasions or dinner parties.

Variations and Customizations

While this recipe provides a delightful combination of chocolate and strawberries, feel free to get creative with other flavor complements. For example, adding a layer of pastry cream or using a different type of fruit, like bananas or kiwi, can provide a unique twist. If you prefer a nutty element, incorporating crushed hazelnuts or almonds between the layers could enrich the dessert with both texture and flavor.

For a dietary alternative, consider using gluten-free puff pastry available in many stores. Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option that still maintains a luscious texture. Remember that these substitutions may alter the final taste, but the essence of your mille-feuille will remain delightful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pastry?

Yes, store-bought puff pastry works great and saves time!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?

Absolutely! You can use raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches.

→ How long does it take to prepare this dessert?

Total preparation time is about 55 minutes, including cooking and cooling.