If you’re looking to impress your guests or indulge in a dessert that’s both visually stunning and uniquely flavored, look no further than Chocolate Lavender Napoleons. This elegant pastry layers crisp, flaky puff pastry with a delicate lavender-infused pastry cream and rich chocolate ganache—creating a harmony of flavors that is both refined and decadent.
Inspired by the classic French Mille-feuille (or “thousand leaves”), the Napoleon traditionally features layers of puff pastry with custard or whipped cream. This version adds a modern twist by infusing floral notes and dark chocolate, offering a dessert that’s as sophisticated as it is unforgettable.
Why You’ll Love Chocolate Lavender Napoleons
This dessert is a showstopper in every sense—from the golden layers of pastry to the rich, creamy filling.
- Elegant Presentation: Perfect for dinner parties, weddings, or afternoon tea.
- Flavor Balance: The floral lavender is subtle and aromatic, pairing beautifully with dark chocolate.
- Texture Play: Crisp puff pastry contrasts with smooth, creamy layers for a delightful mouthfeel.
Chocolate Lavender Napoleons are surprisingly achievable with a bit of planning, and they’ll make any occasion feel special.
Chocolate Lavender Napoleon Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 6):
For the Puff Pastry Layers
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for sprinkling)
For the Lavender Pastry Cream
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 4 egg yolks
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 4 oz dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh lavender sprigs or buds
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Chocolate shavings
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 1–2 hours
Total Time: About 2.5 hours
Yield: 6 Napoleons
Instructions
Make the Lavender Pastry Cream
In a medium saucepan, heat the milk with dried lavender over medium heat until just steaming (do not boil). Remove from heat, cover, and let steep for 10–15 minutes. Strain to remove lavender buds.
In a bowl, whisk sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch until smooth. Slowly whisk in the warm milk, then return the mixture to the saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 4–5 minutes).
Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla. Pour into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (pressing it directly onto the surface), and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Bake the Puff Pastry
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut into 18 equal rectangles (about 2″ x 4″). Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with sugar if desired. Place another sheet of parchment and a second baking sheet on top (this keeps them flat). Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. Cool completely.
Prepare the Chocolate Ganache
In a small saucepan, heat cream until just simmering. Pour over chopped chocolate and butter in a bowl. Let sit for 1–2 minutes, then whisk until smooth. Let cool slightly before using.
Assemble the Napoleons
Spoon or pipe the chilled lavender pastry cream onto 6 of the pastry rectangles. Top with another pastry layer, add a layer of ganache, then top with a final pastry piece.
Drizzle remaining ganache on top, or dust with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh lavender and chocolate curls.
Nutritional Information (Per Napoleon)
Approximate values based on one serving:
- Calories: 460
- Fat: 29g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 6g
- Sugar: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
Note: Values may vary based on chocolate type and pastry size.
Presentation Tips
- Elegant Plating: Serve on white or pastel plates to highlight the dark chocolate and golden pastry.
- Floral Garnish: Use a small sprig of fresh lavender on top or alongside for a fragrant visual cue.
- Pastry Perfection: Use a serrated knife to cut cleanly through the layers when serving.
These Napoleons make a beautiful addition to tea service or as a plated dessert at an upscale dinner party.
Variations and Customizations
- Citrus Note: Add a hint of lemon zest to the pastry cream for brightness.
- Berry Layers: Include a layer of fresh raspberries or a raspberry coulis for added flavor and color.
- White Chocolate Twist: Substitute white chocolate for a softer, sweeter contrast to the lavender.
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, giving you plenty of room to experiment with flavor and presentation.
Final Thoughts
Chocolate Lavender Napoleons are more than just a dessert—they’re an experience. Combining the rich, bittersweet depth of dark chocolate with the light, floral aroma of lavender, this dish elevates classic French pastry into a memorable modern delight.
Though they look like something from a pâtisserie window, these Napoleons are accessible to the home baker with a little care and patience. Whether you’re hosting an elegant brunch, celebrating a romantic occasion, or just treating yourself to something extraordinary, these pastries will steal the show.
So roll out that puff pastry, steep your lavender, and prepare for a dessert that dazzles both the eye and the palate.