Lemon-Pistachio Napoleons

Impossibly light and airy considering that the pastry foundation is composed of dozens, if not hundreds, of gossamer-thin layers, the classic Napoleon is a delicious study in contrasts. Rich, silky smooth cream alternates with those shatteringly-crisp sheets, piled high in alternating stratum. Razor-sharp corners lined up in perfect rows behind French bakery cases, icing immaculately striped as if printed by a machine, much of their popularity stems from their innate beauty.

Needles