Description

Easy Cream Puffs are a classic treat that melt in your mouth with every bite. With light, golden pastry shells filled with fluffy vanilla cream, these elegant pastries are perfect for parties, brunch, or any time you need a little indulgence!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Filling:
2 (3.5 oz) packages instant vanilla pudding mix
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup milk
For the Pastry:
½ cup unsalted butter
1 cup water
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup all-purpose flour
4 large eggs

Instructions

Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together pudding mix, heavy cream, and milk until thick and smooth. Cover and refrigerate while you make the pastry shells.
Make the Pastry Shells: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a saucepan, bring water and butter to a boil. Stir in salt and flour all at once. Stir constantly until mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the pan sides. Remove from heat; let cool for 5 minutes. Transfer to a mixing bowl. Beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. The dough will become smooth and glossy. Drop by heaping tablespoons onto prepared baking sheet, spacing 2–3 inches apart.
Bake the Shells: Bake for 20–25 minutes until puffed and golden brown. Do not open the oven door during baking! Remove and let cool completely on a wire rack.
Assemble the Cream Puffs: Slice each puff in half horizontally. Spoon or pipe chilled vanilla cream filling into the bottom half. Top with the other half.
Serve: Dust with powdered sugar for an extra-pretty presentation. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate until serving time!

Notes

Storage: Store filled cream puffs in the refrigerator and enjoy within 2 days. Make-Ahead Tip: You can bake the shells ahead of time and fill them just before serving for the best texture. Filling Variations: Try chocolate pudding or pastry cream for a twist!

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT25M
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: French

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cream puff
Calories: 160
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 90mg
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: cream puffs, choux pastry, vanilla filling, classic dessert