Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cream puffs are an easy-to-make, classic treat that never disappoints. The puff pastry is light and crispy, while the cream filling is rich and smooth. It’s a dessert that strikes the perfect balance between texture and flavor. Plus, you can customize the filling to suit your taste, whether you prefer vanilla, chocolate, or fruit-flavored cream.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Pastry:
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 4 large eggs
For the Cream Filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, bring the water and butter to a boil over medium heat. Stir until the butter has melted completely.
- Add the flour and salt to the pan, stirring vigorously until the mixture pulls away from the sides and forms a dough ball. Cook for 1-2 minutes to dry out the dough slightly.
- Remove from heat and let the dough cool for a minute. Then, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, until the dough becomes smooth and glossy.
- Using a spoon or piping bag, drop small mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and puffed up. Let them cool on a wire rack.
- While the puffs cool, prepare the cream filling by beating the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl until soft peaks form.
- Once the cream puffs are cool, use a sharp knife to slice them in half or pipe the cream into the center.
- Fill each puff with the whipped cream, then serve and enjoy!
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 12-15 cream puffs.
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 12-15 cream puffs
Variations
- Chocolate Cream Puffs: Add melted chocolate to the cream filling or drizzle on top for a decadent twist.
- Fruit-Filled Cream Puffs: Fold in fresh berries or a fruit puree into the cream filling for a fruity variation.
- Glazed Cream Puffs: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the top for an added touch of sweetness.
- Mini Cream Puffs: For smaller servings, pipe smaller mounds of dough and adjust the baking time accordingly.
Storage/reheating
Cream puffs are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for later use:
- Storage: Store the unfilled puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The cream filling should be stored separately in the fridge.
- Reheating: To reheat the puffs, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to refresh the crispness before filling.
FAQs
1. Can I make the cream puffs in advance?
Yes, you can make the pastry in advance and store the empty puffs at room temperature for up to two days. Fill them just before serving for the best texture.
2. How do I know when the cream puffs are done baking?
The cream puffs should be golden brown and have a hollow center when you tap them. If they sound hollow, they are ready.
3. Can I freeze cream puffs?
Yes, you can freeze the unfilled puffs. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to a month. Thaw them at room temperature before filling.
4. Can I use a different filling?
Absolutely! You can use custard, chocolate mousse, or even a savory filling if you prefer.
5. Why did my cream puffs deflate after baking?
If the puffs deflate, it could be due to underbaking or opening the oven door during baking. Make sure to let them bake fully and avoid opening the oven before they are golden and puffed.
6. Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can make the dough and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before piping it onto the baking sheet.
7. How can I make the cream filling thicker?
If the cream filling isn’t thick enough, you can add more powdered sugar or use heavy whipping cream with a higher fat content.
8. Can I make a dairy-free version?
You can make a dairy-free version by using dairy-free butter and non-dairy cream substitutes, such as coconut cream or almond milk whipped cream.
9. How do I pipe the cream into the puffs?
You can use a piping bag with a round tip to gently pipe the filling into the center of each puff. If you don’t have a piping bag, you can carefully slice the puffs and spoon the cream inside.
10. How long do the cream-filled puffs last?
The filled cream puffs should be eaten the same day, as the filling can make the pastry soggy. If you have leftovers, refrigerate them, and enjoy within 24 hours.
Conclusion
Cream puffs are an elegant and satisfying dessert that never goes out of style. Whether you enjoy them as a special treat or a regular indulgence, they’re always sure to impress. With a crisp exterior and creamy filling, they strike the perfect balance between light and luxurious. Try this recipe for a classic that’s guaranteed to bring joy to your taste buds.
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Cream Puffs
- Total Time: 40min
- Yield: 12-15 cream puffs
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cream puffs are a delicious and classic dessert made of light, airy pastry and a rich, smooth cream filling. These easy-to-make treats are perfect for any occasion and offer the perfect balance between texture and flavor. Customize the filling to your taste with vanilla, chocolate, or fruit variations. Whether for a special celebration or a simple indulgence, this cream puff recipe is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
For the Pastry:
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 4 large eggs
For the Cream Filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, bring the water and butter to a boil over medium heat. Stir until the butter has melted.
- Add the flour and salt, stirring until the mixture pulls away from the sides and forms a dough ball. Cook for 1-2 minutes to dry out the dough.
- Remove from heat and let the dough cool for 1 minute. Then add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until smooth and glossy.
- Using a spoon or piping bag, drop small mounds of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the puffs are golden brown and puffed up. Cool on a wire rack.
- For the cream filling, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Once the puffs are cool, slice them in half or pipe the cream into the center. Fill each puff with whipped cream. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Make sure not to open the oven during baking to prevent deflation.
- If you’re looking for a different flavor, you can use custard, chocolate mousse, or even fruit-flavored cream for the filling.
- Prep Time: 15min
- Cook Time: 20min
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
