Easy Cream Puffs

Introduction

Cream puffs are a classic dessert that everyone loves. These light and airy pastries are filled with a creamy vanilla pudding that simply melts in your mouth. Making cream puffs isn’t as hard as you might think, and once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make them for every special occasion.

Why Make This Recipe

Making easy cream puffs is a fun activity to do in the kitchen. They are perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just to enjoy with your family. The result is a stunning dessert that looks fancy but is simple to make. Plus, you can customize them with different fillings or toppings to suit your taste. They are sure to impress your guests!

How to Make Easy Cream Puffs

Ingredients:

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

Directions:

Prepare the Pudding: In a mixing bowl, combine the instant vanilla pudding mix, heavy cream, and milk. Whisk together until smooth and thickened. Refrigerate while you prepare the pastry.
Make the Choux Pastry: In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, water, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, remove from heat and stir in the flour until a dough forms.
Add the Eggs: Allow the dough to cool slightly, then add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Pipe the Pastry: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a piping bag or a spoon, drop tablespoon-sized mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake the Cream Puffs: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and puffed up. Do not open the oven door during baking. Once done, remove from the oven and let cool completely.
Fill the Cream Puffs: Once cooled, cut a small slit in the side of each cream puff and fill with the chilled vanilla pudding mixture using a piping bag or a spoon.
Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the filled cream puffs on a serving platter and enjoy these light and delicious treats!

How to Serve Easy Cream Puffs

Cream puffs are best served fresh. You can sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for a sweet touch. They also look lovely arranged on a serving platter. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea.

How to Store Easy Cream Puffs

Store any leftover cream puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best enjoyed within a day or two to keep them fresh. If you plan to make them ahead, fill them just before serving to keep the pastry crisp.

Tips to Make Easy Cream Puffs

Make sure not to open the oven door while baking. This can cause the cream puffs to deflate.
Use a piping bag for a neat and easy way to fill the pastries.
If you don’t have a piping bag, a zip-top plastic bag with a corner cut off works well too.

Variation

You can fill cream puffs with other delicious fillings, like chocolate pudding, whipped cream, or custard. For a fruity twist, add some fresh berries into the filling.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze cream puffs?
Yes, you can freeze the baked but unfilled cream puffs. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.

2. Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?
Yes, you can use homemade pudding instead of instant. Just let it cool before filling the cream puffs.

3. How do I know when the cream puffs are done baking?
The cream puffs should be golden brown and puffed up. If you tap them gently, they should sound hollow.