This classic dessert is a favorite for a reason! The light and airy cream puffs are filled with a rich and creamy filling that is sure to impress.
Follow this detailed recipe, along with tips, variations, and storage instructions, to create the perfect cream puffs.
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:
½ quart (2 cups) heavy cream
1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding
⅓ cup milk.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cream Puffs:
In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, water, and vanilla extract. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
Once boiling, remove from heat and quickly stir in the flour until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
Allow the mixture to cool for about 5 minutes. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the dough is smooth and glossy.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Using a pastry bag or a spoon, drop tablespoon-sized mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and have risen. Do not open the oven door during baking.
Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
2. Prepare Mom’s Celebrated Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, instant vanilla pudding mix, and milk.
Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it thickens and forms soft peaks (about 3-5 minutes).
Once thickened, you can transfer the filling to a pastry bag for easy filling of the cream puffs.
3. Assemble the Cream Puffs:
Once the cream puffs are completely cooled, use a sharp knife to cut a small slit in the side of each puff or the top to create an opening.
Fill each puff with the prepared filling using the pastry bag or a spoon.
Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips
Do Not Open the Oven: Avoid opening the oven door while the cream puffs are baking, as this can cause them to deflate.
Cooling: Allow the cream puffs to cool completely before filling to prevent the filling from melting.
Piping: If you don’t have a pastry bag, you can use a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off to fill the puffs.
Variations
Chocolate Cream Puffs: Substitute chocolate pudding mix for the vanilla pudding in the filling for a chocolate version.
Flavored Fillings: Experiment with different flavored pudding mixes (like lemon or butterscotch) for a unique twist.
Fruit Additions: Fold in fresh fruit (like berries) into the filling for added flavor and texture.
Storage
Refrigeration: Store filled cream puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They are best enjoyed fresh but can be kept for a short time.
Freezing: Unfilled cream puffs can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature before filling.
Enjoy making and sharing these delightful cream puffs with Mom’s celebrated filling! They are sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a special treat at home.