Description
These Easiest Cream Puffs feature a classic French choux pastry filled with a light and creamy vanilla whipped cream. Perfect for beginner bakers, this dessert is airy, golden-brown, and deliciously sweet, making it an impressive yet simple treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Choux Pastry
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
Filling
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Topping
- Powdered sugar or melted chocolate for topping
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and help with even baking.
- Make the choux dough: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, water, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and immediately stir in the flour all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan, about 1–2 minutes.
- Cool and add eggs: Remove the pan from heat and let the dough cool for 5 minutes. Beat in eggs one at a time, incorporating each fully before adding the next, until the dough is smooth and glossy.
- Shape the cream puffs: Use a spoon or a piping bag to drop tablespoon-sized mounds onto the prepared baking sheet. Space them approximately 2 inches apart to allow for expansion.
- Bake the puffs: Bake for 25–30 minutes, until they are puffed up and golden brown. Avoid opening the oven door during baking to prevent collapsing. After baking, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the filling: While the puffs cool, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form to create the creamy filling.
- Assemble the cream puffs: Slice each puff in half horizontally, fill generously with whipped cream, and then replace the top. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for extra decoration.
Notes
- To make ahead, bake the puffs and store them unfilled in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Fill the puffs just before serving to keep them crisp and prevent sogginess.
- You can customize the filling by adding flavors such as lemon zest or cocoa powder for variety.
