Easy Homemade Cream Puffs Recipe (2024)

Learn how to make Easy Homemade Cream Puffs at home that are bakery quality but so easy. They are so light and fluffy with the most decadent filling.

What is a Cream Puff?

A light pastry filled with cream filling. These can be eaten plain or garnished with fruit such as strawberries, blueberries or blackberries. You can also drizzle chocolate on top for another delicious idea.

We are going to show you how easy it is to make pâte à choux pastry at home.Most bakeries sell these and they always catch my eye. This easy recipe for cream puffs are made with simple ingredients and are so delicious.

Don’t be afraid to make these easy cream puffs recipe. This classic French dessert is filled with sweet cream and dusted with powdered sugar. Impress your family and make these easy cream puff dessert.

What is Cream Puff Filling Made of?

The cream puff filling is made with heavy whipping cream and blended with powdered sugar. Make sure to add in clear vanilla extract to give it that warm flavor.

Supplies Needed for Cream Puffs:

• Pastry Bag
• Silicone Baking Mat
• Parchment Paper
• Basting Brush
• Wire Rack

Ingredients:

• Water
• Unsalted Butter
• Salt
• Granulated Sugar
• All-purpose Flour
• Eggs

Ingredients for Filling:

• Heavy Whipping Cream
• Powdered Sugar
• Clear Vanilla Extract – Clear vanilla will keep the cream white but regular vanilla extract can also be used.
  

How to Make Cream Puffs:

• Step 1 – First, go ahead and preheat your oven.

• Step 2 – Second, get a baking sheet out and line it with either parchment paper or a silicone mat. This will help with cleanup.

• Step 3 – Now that you have that ready, start making the batter for the cream puffs. You will need a large saucepan for the butter, salt, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil and remove from heat.

• Step 4 – This next step is quick so be ready! Add the flour with a wooden spoon to the mixture and stir until it’s all mixed well.

• Step 5 – Once this is mixed together, put the pan back on the stove and continue cooking on medium heat. You will need to stir this constantly until a film forms on the bottom of the pan. Remove the pan from heat and transfer the flour mixture to a bowl to cool.

• Step 6 – Next, add the eggs once the mixture has cooled completely. It’s important to add the eggs one at a time and to stir between each one.

• Step 7 – Use the remaining egg to make an egg wash with water and whisk together. You will need this later so just set aside.

• Step 8 – Get out a large disposable decorator piping bag and put the pastry dough mixture inside. Use a large round tip and pipe circles on the baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Each circle should be 2 inches in diameter.

• Step 9 – Take a look at each circle and see if there are any pointed peaks you need to smooth. If so, moisten your fingers and very gently smooth them out.

• Step 10 – Now is when you need the egg wash you prepared earlier. Brush each cream puff with a little.

• Step 11 – Bake until the puffs rise and turn golden brown. This takes less than 30 minutes and can vary based on the oven. I like to keep an eye on them.

• Step 12 – Let them cool on a wire rack.

How to Make Filling for Cream Puffs:

• Step 1 – Put a large mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer to chill while the cream puffs are cooling.

• Step 2 – Second, make sure the cream puffs are cool, and remove the bowl and beaters from the freezer.

• Step 3 – Next, add the pastry cream to the bowl and beat until you see soft peaks.

• Step 5 – Add the powdered sugar and vanilla and beat until stiff peaks form in the mixing bowl.

• Step 6 – Lastly, add the filling to the pastry bag with a tip. You have a couple of options at this point. Prepare the cream puffs by cutting the top portion off or you can leave them as is and fill without removing them. I prefer to cut the top off and fill and then replace the top but you do what you prefer.

• Step 7 – Do not fill the cream puffs more than 4 hours prior to serving. This is important.

• Step 8 – Top with powdered sugar and any toppings you desire such as fruit. I think they look so pretty dusted with powdered sugar.

Another idea for filling is ice cream. Yum!

Why do Cream Puffs Deflate?

There are several reasons this can happen:

• Make sure the cream puff ingredients are combined correctly at the right temperature. The milk mixture needs to be hot when you add the flour so that you see the film form on the bottom of the pan.
• There needs to be space in between each cream puff on the baking sheet. This is so they have room to expand and the steam to escape without damaging the cream puff beside it.
• Do not open the oven to check on them. The cold air will cause the cream puffs to deflate.
• Underbaking can also cause the cream puffs to deflate.

How do you keep Cream Puffs Puffy?

The cream puffs will stay puffy if stored properly. Place your leftover cream puffs in an air tight container for up to 3 to 4 days. Place in the refrigerator with any leftover frosting.

How far ahead can you fill Cream Puffs:

Cream puffs are best served immediately when you have filled with cream filling. If you would like to make ahead, do not add filling no more than 4 hours ahead of time.

Recipe Tips:

• Baking Sheet – Line baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Form a ball – After placing the mixture in the pastry bag, squeeze until the mixture forms a ball on the baking sheet.
• Adding Cream – Do not fill the pastry no more than 4 hours from when you want to serve them.
• Cut Pastries to fill – We recommend cutting the top off of the pastry. Then fill with the cream and then place the top back on and serve.

How to Store Cream Puffs:

You do not want to store cream puffs in the fridge longer than an hour because it can cause them to soften. If you plan to make them in advance and fill later, store them at room temperature up to 24 hours.

Can I Freeze Cream Puffs?

Yes! You can freeze them up to 2 months as long as you use a freezer bag or container. However, only freeze the cream puff without filling and do that step when ready to serve.

See Also

Delicate & Delicious Homemade Cream PuffsEasy Homemade Cream Puffs - You're Gonna Bake It After AllPerfect Cream Puffs Recipe (For Beginners)Cream Puffs Recipe (VIDEO)

Print this Delicious Cream Puffs Recipe below:

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