The rise depends on clean cuts and dry edges. Press the cutter straight down without twisting so the layers can lift, and keep egg wash off the cut sides, since egg on the edge glues them shut. Bake the shells hot and fill them only once they are cool and crisp.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep30 min
Cook30 min
Makes8 shells
CuisineFrench
Cost$$
Contains dairy · eggs · gluten
Make it gluten-free: swap in gluten-free versions of the wheat items (check the other labels too).
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for8shells
Puff pastry
A cold all-butter sheet thick enough to build tall shells; the rise is everything.
A light hand — your arteries say thanks. · plan ahead — needs marinating, soaking, or resting time
EffortSome doing
Cook it with
Air fryerSheet pan
The Method
Cut clean ringsStamp out rounds with a sharp cutter pressed straight down, then score an inner ring partway through each without cutting all the way. Twisting the cutter seals the edges and kills the rise.
Wash the tops onlyEgg-wash the top surface but keep it off the cut sides. Egg on the edges glues the layers and they will not lift.
Bake tallBake at 400F until deeply puffed and golden, about 20 minutes, then lift out the inner lids and scoop the soft center to hollow each case.
Fill hot into cool shellsBrown the mushrooms, add chicken and cream, and reduce to a thick sauce. Spoon into the crisp shells just before serving so they do not go soggy.
Yes — bake it in a small pan or dish that fits the basket, at about 25°F below the recipe temperature. Air fryers run hot and fast, so check it early; no flipping needed.
Can you freeze Vol-au-Vent? — Yes
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make Vol-au-Vent ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — bake it a day or two ahead; it keeps well-wrapped at room temperature and freezes cleanly. Add any frosting or glaze close to serving.
Is Vol-au-Vent gluten-free? — Not as written
Not as written — it contains gluten. Make it gluten-free: swap in gluten-free versions of the wheat items (check the other labels too).
Is Vol-au-Vent vegan? — No
No — it contains meat, so it isn’t vegetarian or vegan.
Community Notes
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