These Famous Cream Puffs are a classic French pastry that is light, airy, and filled with luscious cream. With a crisp golden shell and a rich, creamy filling, they make the perfect dessert for parties, holidays, or any special occasion!
Whether you fill them with whipped cream, custard, or pastry cream, these homemade cream puffs will impress everyone. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and foolproof steps!
✔ Perfectly Light & Airy – Crisp exterior with a soft, creamy inside.
✔ Endless Filling Options – Customize with whipped cream, custard, or even chocolate!
✔ Great for Any Occasion – A show-stopping dessert for guests!
Ingredients for Famous Cream Puffs
For the Pastry (Choux Dough):
1 stick butter (½ cup)
1 cup water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
4 large eggs
For the Filling:
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Toppings:
Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Melted chocolate (for drizzling)
How to Make Famous Cream Puffs
Step 1: Prepare the Pastry Dough
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter with water and vanilla extract. Bring to a gentle boil.
Reduce heat to low and stir in flour all at once. Mix vigorously with a wooden spoon until the dough pulls away from the sides of the pan and forms a ball.
Remove from heat and let it cool for 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Eggs
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. The dough will be thick, smooth, and glossy.
Transfer the dough into a piping bag or drop spoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
Step 3: Bake the Pastry
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up.
Do not open the oven door while baking!
Once done, remove from the oven and pierce each puff with a toothpick to release steam.
Let them cool completely before filling.
Step 4: Make the Cream Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Transfer the cream to a piping bag.
Step 5: Fill the Cream Puffs
Cut each puff in half and pipe the whipped cream inside.
Alternatively, make a small hole in each puff and pipe the filling inside.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate.
Serve immediately and enjoy the light, creamy deliciousness!
Tips for Perfect Cream Puffs
✔ Do Not Open the Oven Too Early – This prevents them from collapsing.
✔ Use a Toothpick – Poking small holes in the puffs helps release steam, keeping them crisp.
✔ Cool Completely Before Filling – Warm puffs will melt the cream.
✔ Experiment with Fillings – Try custard, chocolate cream, or ice cream!
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
📦 Storage:
Keep unfilled cream puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days.
Store filled puffs in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
❄️ Freezing:
Freeze unfilled puffs for up to 2 months.
Thaw at room temperature before filling.
Filling Variations
🍫 Chocolate Cream: Add cocoa powder to the whipped cream for a chocolatey twist!
🍓 Strawberry Cream: Mix in pureed strawberries for a fruity filling.
🍮 Vanilla Custard: Fill with pastry cream for a traditional touch.
🍦 Ice Cream: Fill with vanilla ice cream and freeze for a refreshing dessert!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Why didn’t my cream puffs rise?
Your oven might not have been hot enough, or you opened the door too soon. Make sure to bake at 400°F (200°C) and don’t peek!
- Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the shells in advance and fill them just before serving for freshness.
- Can I use a different filling?
Of course! Pastry cream, ice cream, or fruit-flavored whipped cream all work wonderfully.
Final Thoughts – Try These Famous Cream Puffs Today!
These Famous Cream Puffs are the ultimate light and airy dessert, perfect for any occasion! With their crisp shells and rich, creamy filling, they’re guaranteed to impress.
Give them a try and let me know how they turn out! Happy baking! 🎂✨