Puits D’Amour: Mauritian Style Recipe

Since Vincent De La Chapelle introduced the Puits D’Amour in his cooking book in the 1730s, this French pastry has become quite popular around the world. Today, there are various versions of the Puits D’Amour, and in Mauritius, we have our unique twist on it. We are so grateful that Husnah Djarlo, a true pastry enthusiast who has also shared other delightful recipes on this blog, like the famous Carré Rouge and Napolitaines, is back to share another wonderful recipe for Puits D’Amour, in Mauritian style.

Step-By-Step Recipe Of Puits D’Amour

Husnah has once again tried to make the recipe shorter, and easy to follow. We will start from the pastry dough, as follows:

STEP 1: Combine flour and butter.

• 275g flour.
• 150g unsalted Butter (softened).
• Pinch of salt (optional) for extra flavor.

In a mixing bowl, add the flour. Cut the softened butter into small cubes and add it to the bowl. Using your fingertips, gently rub the butter into the flour. Work the mixture until it is well combined and resembles coarse crumbs. Aim for a mixture where small bits of butter are still visible; this will help create a flaky texture in the final dough.

Once the butter and flour are blended, gather the mixture together into a ball. But be careful not to overwork it.

Flatten the dough slightly into a disk shape to help it chill more evenly. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a covered container. Refrigerate for 30 minutes. This chilling period is crucial, as it firms up the butter and relaxes the gluten, making the dough easier to roll out later and enhancing its flakiness.

STEP 2: Pastry filling.

• 1⁄2 cup sugar.
• 4 tablespoons cornstarch.
• 4 tablespoons flour.
• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt.
• 2 cups milk.
• 1egg, lightly beaten.
• 1⁄2 cup heavy cream.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla.
• Coconut Powder.
• Jam.

Mix dry these ingredients, sugar, cornstarch, flour, and salt in a saucepan. After that, add the milk, and stir. Then, cook over medium heat, stirring, until it boils and thickens. Mix a bit of the hot mixture with beaten egg, then return it to the saucepan. Bring it to a gentle boil while stirring.

Let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then covered to contact with cling film. Refrigerate until completely chilled, about 2 hours.

STEP 3: Shaping the tart shells.

Take a small portion of the chilled dough and flatten it slightly with your hands. Carefully press the dough into the tart molds, making sure to cover the bottom and sides evenly. Use your fingers to create a smooth casing. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges. Use a fork to prick the bottom of each tart shell. This process, known as “docking,” prevents the dough from puffing up during baking and helps ensure an even texture. Preheat your oven to 180°C. Place the lined tart molds in the oven and bake for about 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking. Once baked, carefully remove the tart shells from the molds.

Let them cool on a wire rack before filling. This will ensure your tart shells are perfectly shaped and ready for your filling!

STEP 4: The cream.

Once chilled, use a mixer to beat the filling until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip 1/2 cup heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently beat the whipped cream and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract into the chilled egg mixture, being careful not to deflate the cream.

STEP 5: Fill and garnish the tart.

Carefully transfer the creamy filling into a piping bag. Pipe the mixture into the bottom of the cooled, pre-baked pastry shells. Lightly dust the cream tart with coconut powder, then add a generous dollop of jam in the center for a pop of color and flavor. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy your delicious pastry filled with creamy goodness!

Serve With Tea Or Coffee…

Puits D’Amour is delightful when enjoyed with tea or coffee during your afternoon break. Some prefer it as a dessert after a heavy lunch. Whatever your preference, it makes no difference. I hope this simple recipe for baking Puits D’Amour in Mauritian style has been helpful to you! Thanks a lot to Husnah Djarlo once more! Do like her Facebook page here.