Napoleons

Method

1. Start. Dock pastry thoroughly and bake between parchment-lined sheet pans until crisp.Watch for: Begin checking at the early end of the range; use the stated color, movement, or internal-temperature cue rather than time alone.
2. Then. Uncover for final 8–12 minutes to brown and dry; cool and trim.Watch for: Work deliberately and stop as soon as the described texture is reached; the endpoint matters more than the clock.
3. Finish. Layer three rectangles with even pastry cream; chill, then slice with a serrated knife.Watch for: Keep it covered during the rest; move on only when it is evenly cool or firm, including at the center. Use only enough flour to prevent sticking and handle evenly so every piece bakes at the same rate.