Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with our Cream Puffs with Mom’s Celebrated Filling recipe! These light, airy puffs paired with a creamy, luscious filling create a treat that’s both elegant and comforting. Perfect for special occasions or a sweet everyday indulgence, this recipe is a must-try for any baking enthusiast. Below, you’ll find a detailed guide with ingredients, step-by-step instructions, expert tips, creative variations, and storage advice to ensure your cream puffs turn out flawless every time.
Ingredients
For the Cream Puffs:
- 1 stick butter (½ cup)
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
For Mom’s Celebrated Filling:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- ⅓ cup milk
Instructions
Prepare the Cream Puffs:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a saucepan, bring water, butter, and vanilla to a boil over medium heat.
- Add flour all at once and stir vigorously until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
- Beat in eggs one at a time until the dough is smooth, glossy, and pipeable.
- Using a tablespoon or piping bag, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing puffs 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 40 minutes or until golden brown and puffed. Avoid opening the oven door during baking.
- Optional: Poke a small hole in each puff with a toothpick and return to the oven with the door slightly ajar for 10 minutes to dry out and prevent deflation.
Prepare the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk heavy cream, instant vanilla pudding mix, and milk until thick and fluffy. Chill for 15-20 minutes before assembling.
Assemble the Cream Puffs:
- Once puffs are completely cool, slice them in half horizontally.
- Pipe or spoon the filling onto the bottom half of each puff and replace the top.
- Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for a decadent finish.
Tips for Perfect Cream Puffs
- Dough Consistency: Ensure the dough is smooth and glossy. If too thick, add a splash of water or milk.
- Baking: Bake until puffs are golden and sound hollow when tapped. Avoid opening the oven door.
- Preventing Deflation: Cool puffs in the oven with the door slightly open to release steam.
- Filling: Chill the filling before piping for easier handling and a prettier presentation.
Creative Variations
- Chocolate Cream Puffs: Add 2 tbsp cocoa powder to the dough and fill with chocolate pudding.
- Lemon Cream Puffs: Add lemon zest to the dough and fill with lemon curd.
- Coffee Cream Puffs: Add 1 tsp instant espresso powder to the dough and fill with coffee-flavored whipped cream.
- Fruit-Filled Cream Puffs: Add fresh berries to the filling for a fruity twist.
- Savory Cream Puffs: Omit sugar and vanilla, and fill with chicken salad or herbed cream cheese.
Storage Instructions
- Unfilled Puffs: Store at room temperature for 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
- Filled Puffs: Refrigerate for up to 2 days. Fill just before serving for best texture.
- Filling: Store leftover filling in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cream puffs dusted with powdered sugar, drizzled with chocolate, or paired with fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast. Enjoy with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for the ultimate treat.
This Cream Puffs with Mom’s Celebrated Filling recipe is guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Happy baking!
