Puff pastry shells

Vol-au-vent shells are small, crispy, and light puff pastry bases or containers commonly used in cooking to be filled with sweet or savory ingredients. These vol-au-vents are shaped like cups or tartlets, making them ideal for presenting appetizers, starters, or individual bites at celebrations and gatherings.

The origin of the vol-au-vent is linked to French pastry, derived from the term vol-au-vent, which literally means “flight in the wind,” referring to the airy and light texture of the puff pastry used. In Hispanic American cuisine, vol-au-vent shells have been adapted and popularized as a base for a wide variety of preparations, from creamy fillings like seafood, chicken, or mushrooms, to sweet mixtures such as fruits and creams.

Regarding their properties, vol-au-vent shells provide a crispy touch and an elegant presentation without being too heavy, making them a versatile and practical option for multiple recipes. As they are primarily made from puff pastry, they mainly contain carbohydrates; their nutritional value will largely depend on the type of filling they are paired with.

In different Spanish-speaking regions, besides “cáscaras de volován,” they may also be known as puff pastry tartlets or simply vol-au-vents. These terms are used to describe the same crispy bases for fillings in both traditional and modern recipes.