Cream Puffs Recipe

Cream puffs may seem fancy, but they are surprisingly simple to make at home! With this top-rated cream puff recipe, you can create a delicious, bakery-worthy dessert that will impress everyone.

What Are Cream Puffs?

Cream puffs, also known as profiteroles, are light French choux pastry balls filled with cream. The dough is made without leavening agents and relies on steam to puff up during baking, resulting in a delicate, airy texture.

Ingredients

• 2 (3.5 ounce) packages instant vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup milk
• cup butter
• 1 cup water
• teaspoon salt
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Filling

In a small bowl, combine the instant vanilla pudding mix, heavy cream, and milk. Stir well until everything is fully mixed. Cover the bowl and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour, or until the filling has set.

Step 2: Make the Choux Pastry

Preheat your oven to 425F (220C). In a large pot, bring the water and butter to a rolling boil. Once boiling, stir in the flour and salt. Keep stirring until the mixture forms a dough ball.

Step 3: Mix in the Eggs

Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl. Using a wooden spoon or stand mixer, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The dough should become smooth and glossy after each egg is incorporated.

Step 4: Shape the Pastry

Using a tablespoon, drop dollops of dough onto an ungreased baking sheet. Space them about 2 inches apart. This allows them to puff up without sticking together.

Step 5: Bake the Cream Puffs

Bake the cream puffs in the preheated oven for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown on the outside and dry on the inside. Do not open the oven door during baking to avoid deflation. Once done, remove from the oven and let the puffs cool on a wire rack.

Step 6: Fill the Cream Puffs

Once the puffs have cooled completely, split them open or use a pastry bag to pipe the chilled pudding mixture into the center. Be sure not to overfill them, as this can cause the puffs to break.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your cream puffs as they are, or dust them with powdered sugar for extra sweetness. If you're feeling fancy, drizzle melted chocolate or fruit syrup over the top. For an elegant presentation, stack the filled puffs into a cone-shaped tower, known as a croquembouche.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover cream puffs in an airtight or a zip-top bag in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cream Puffs

To freeze cream puffs, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag and label with the date. You can freeze them for up to two months. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Each serving contains:

• 190 Calories
• 13g Fat
• 15g Carbs
• 3g Protein

Community Tips

"These cream puffs are light and delicious," says LCAROLINE. "To avoid deflation, after baking, turn off the oven, crack the door slightly with a towel, and let the puffs cool in the oven for about an hour."

"I added a vanilla bean for extra flavor," shares Susan. "The puffs looked gorgeous and tasted fantastic with icing sugar, melted chocolate, and a raspberry reduction!"

"Everyone was amazed that I made these from scratch! They looked so elegant," says another community member.