Lady Lock Pillows (Easy Puff Pastry Cream Dessert)

If you’ve ever been to a wedding or holiday party in Pennsylvania, you’ve probably seen Lady Locks—those classic flaky pastries filled with cream. Traditionally, they’re made with a delicate dough rolled around molds, baked, then piped with filling. Gorgeous, but a little fussy. That’s why I’m sharing these Lady Lock Pillows—a shortcut version made with puff pastry squares. No molds, no stress, just golden pastry filled with cream and dusted with powdered sugar. ✨

I first made these for Christmas cookie trays, and they disappeared instantly. My mom even said, “These taste just like the lady locks we used to get at weddings, but fluffier!” The beauty is you can make a big batch in under an hour, and they look so elegant piled on a tray. Plus, they’re endlessly customizable with different fillings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shortcut hack – Uses frozen puff pastry instead of homemade dough.
Light & flaky – Golden pastry with a soft cream center.
Versatile – Fill with buttercream, whipped cream, or custard.
Party perfect – Ideal for holidays, showers, and weddings.
Make-ahead friendly – Pastry shells can be baked ahead of time.

Ingredients

1 package frozen puff pastry, thawed per box instructions
Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Filling:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3–4 cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Tip: For a lighter version, swap the buttercream for sweetened whipped cream or custard.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Thaw puff pastry according to box instructions. Use a pizza cutter to cut into squares or rectangles, depending on the size you want.

Step 2: Bake Until Golden

Place pastry pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 350°F for 10–12 minutes, until puffed and lightly golden. Let cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a bowl, beat softened butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar gradually, along with milk and vanilla, until fluffy. Adjust consistency as needed.

Step 4: Fill the Pastry

Slice each pastry square in half. Pipe or spoon filling inside, then close and dust generously with powdered sugar.

Expert Tips & Troubleshooting

Cutting evenly: Use a pizza cutter or ruler to get uniform squares.
Fluffier filling: Whip filling for several minutes to make it airy.
Crispy pastry: Bake pastry the same day you plan to serve.
Flavor twist: Add almond extract, lemon zest, or cocoa powder to the filling.

Variations & Serving Ideas

Whipped cream pillows: Use stabilized whipped cream for a lighter filling.
Chocolate dream: Add cocoa powder to buttercream and drizzle tops with chocolate.
Fruit surprise: Spoon jam or lemon curd inside before adding cream.
Holiday tray: Add colored sprinkles or edible glitter for festive flair.

Storage & Make-Ahead Notes

Pastry shells can be baked 1 day ahead and stored in an airtight container.
Filled pillows are best eaten the same day, but can be refrigerated up to 2 days.
Dust with powdered sugar right before serving for the freshest look.

FAQs

Do I need special molds like traditional lady locks?
No! That’s what makes these pillows so easy—no molds required.

Can I freeze them?
You can freeze the baked pastry shells (unfilled) for up to 1 month. Fill after thawing.

What other fillings work?
Custard, cream cheese frosting, or even Nutella are delicious alternatives.

How many does one box of puff pastry make?
About 18–24 pillows, depending on cut size.

Internal Links

Try my [Baklava Cups] for another shortcut pastry tray favorite.
My [Filled Pizzelle Cookies] are another Italian-inspired holiday treat.
Don’t miss my [Homemade Pop Tarts] for a fun family-friendly bake.

Conclusion

Lady Lock Pillows are the perfect shortcut dessert—flaky, creamy, and dusted with powdered sugar. They look elegant enough for weddings and holidays but are easy enough for a weeknight treat. Have you tried traditional lady locks before? Tell me in the comments which filling you’d use, and don’t forget to 📌 save this recipe on Pinterest for later!