This Lemon Blueberry Filo Pastry Soufra is the perfect blend of crisp, buttery filo pastry with a burst of fresh blueberry flavor and a hint of lemon zest. The delicate layers of filo pastry create a crisp exterior, while the sweet blueberry filling offers a refreshing, fruity contrast. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert is as visually stunning as it is delicious, and it is sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Delicate and Crispy Texture

The filo pastry provides a light, crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the juicy blueberry filling, offering a satisfying crunch in every bite.

2. Easy to Prepare

Despite its elegant appearance, this dessert is simple to prepare with just a few ingredients and basic steps, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.

3. Refreshing Flavors

The combination of sweet blueberries and zesty lemon creates a bright and refreshing flavor profile that is perfect for any time of the year, especially during the warmer months.

4. Versatile Dessert

This dessert is perfect for serving at a dinner party, brunch, or as a sweet snack with tea or coffee. You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your preferences by adding different fruits or spices.

5. Quick Baking Time

With a short bake time of just 25-30 minutes, you can enjoy this dessert in no time, making it perfect for last-minute occasions.

Ingredients

Filo pastry
Fresh blueberries
Sugar
Lemon zest
Melted butter

Variations

Add Nuts: For added crunch, sprinkle some chopped almonds, pistachios, or walnuts over the blueberry filling before rolling up the pastry.
Use Other Fruits: While blueberries are a classic choice, this recipe works well with raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries for a different fruity twist.
Sweetened Cream Cheese: For a richer filling, you can add a layer of sweetened cream cheese or mascarpone cheese before spooning in the blueberries.
Cinnamon or Nutmeg: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, spiced flavor that complements the blueberries and lemon.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake.

Step 2: Prepare the Blueberry Mixture

In a bowl, combine the fresh blueberries, sugar, and lemon zest. Gently stir to mix the ingredients, ensuring the blueberries are evenly coated in the sugar and zest.

Step 3: Layer the Filo Pastry

Lay one sheet of filo pastry on a clean surface and brush it with melted butter. Place another sheet of filo pastry on top and brush that with more butter. Repeat until you have a stack of about 4-5 sheets of filo pastry.

Step 4: Add the Filling

Spoon a portion of the blueberry mixture onto the filo pastry near one edge. Be careful not to overfill, as the mixture may leak out while baking.

Step 5: Roll and Form the Soufra

Roll the filo pastry with the blueberry mixture into a log shape, then coil the log into a spiral on your baking tray, like a large cinnamon roll. This will create the signature “soufra” shape.

Step 6: Repeat and Bake

Repeat the process with the remaining filo pastry and blueberry mixture. Arrange the spirals on a baking tray, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the filo pastry is golden brown and crispy.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Filo Pastry Handling: Filo pastry dries out quickly, so be sure to keep the sheets covered with a damp towel while you’re working to prevent them from becoming brittle.
Butter Brushing: Use a pastry brush to evenly coat the filo pastry with butter to ensure a crisp and golden result. You can also use melted coconut oil for a subtle coconut flavor.
Lemon Zest: Fresh lemon zest is key to bringing out the zesty flavor. Avoid using pre-zested lemon as it may lose its freshness.
Filling Adjustments: If you want a thicker filling, add a small spoonful of cornstarch mixed with water to the blueberry mixture before rolling it up.

How to Serve

This Lemon Blueberry Filo Pastry Soufra is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it by serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For extra flair, dust the finished soufra with powdered sugar or drizzle with honey or lemon glaze before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To maintain the crispiness of the filo pastry, reheat the soufra in a warm oven for a few minutes before serving.

Freezing

You can freeze the uncooked soufra before baking. Simply prepare the pastry and filling as instructed, then freeze it on the baking tray until solid. Once frozen, wrap the soufra in plastic wrap and foil, then store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To bake, simply add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time, as the pastry will need time to thaw.

Reheating

To reheat, place the soufra in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes or until the pastry is crispy and the filling is heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen blueberries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess liquid in the filling.

2. Can I make this dessert without butter?

You can substitute melted butter with melted coconut oil or olive oil for a different flavor.

3. How do I prevent the filo pastry from drying out?

Work quickly and keep unused sheets covered with a damp towel while assembling the soufra.

4. Can I add more lemon to the filling?

Absolutely! If you love lemon, feel free to add more zest or a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to the blueberry mixture.

5. Can I make individual servings?

Yes, you can cut the filo pastry sheets into smaller squares or rectangles and roll them into individual portions for easier serving.

6. How do I make this dessert more indulgent?

Top with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for an added treat. You could also serve with a scoop of ice cream.

7. Can I use a different fruit?

Yes, this recipe works with a variety of fruits like raspberries, blackberries, or even a mix of fruits.

8. How can I make the soufra even sweeter?

You can sprinkle sugar on top of the filo pastry before baking for a sweet, crunchy topping.

9. Can I use a different type of pastry?

While filo pastry is key to this recipe, puff pastry or shortcrust pastry can also work, though the texture will differ.

10. How do I know when the pastry is done?

The filo pastry should be golden brown and crispy, with the filling bubbling lightly inside.

Conclusion

Lemon Blueberry Filo Pastry Soufra is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that pairs the tartness of lemon with the sweetness of blueberries, all wrapped in layers of crispy, buttery filo pastry. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or simply craving a delicious treat, this dessert is sure to be a hit. With its refreshing flavors, crispy texture, and beautiful presentation, it’s perfect for any gathering or as a sweet ending to a meal. Enjoy!