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Easy Cream Puffs with Vanilla Cream Filling Recipe

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4.1 from 31 reviews

  • Author: Patricia
  • Total Time: PT45M
  • Yield: About 24 cream puffs

Description

Easy Cream Puffs are a classic French dessert featuring light, golden pastry shells filled with fluffy vanilla cream. These melt-in-your-mouth treats are perfect for parties, brunch, or anytime you want to indulge with an elegant, airy pastry filled with creamy sweetness.

Ingredients

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

  1. Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix, heavy cream, and milk until the mixture is thick and smooth. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the filling while preparing the pastry shells to allow it to set properly.
  2. Make the Pastry Shells: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a saucepan, bring the water and unsalted butter to a boil. Add the salt and then stir in the flour all at once. Stir continuously until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan. Remove from heat and let it cool for 5 minutes.
  3. Incorporate the Eggs: Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. You will notice the dough becoming smooth and glossy in texture, which is ready for baking.
  4. Shape and Bake the Shells: Drop the dough by heaping tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing each puff 2–3 inches apart to allow room for expansion. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, until the puffs are puffed up and golden brown. Be sure not to open the oven during baking to avoid collapse. Once baked, remove the puffs and cool completely on a wire rack.
  5. Assemble the Cream Puffs: Slice each cooled puff horizontally in half. Spoon or pipe the chilled vanilla cream filling generously into the bottom halves. Then place the top halves over the filling.
  6. Serve and Garnish: Dust the completed cream puffs lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant finish. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve for best freshness.

Notes

  • Storage: Keep filled cream puffs refrigerated and consume within 2 days to maintain freshness and texture.
  • Make-Ahead Tip: Bake pastry shells ahead of time and store in an airtight container. Fill just before serving to prevent sogginess.
  • Filling Variations: Substitute vanilla pudding with chocolate pudding or pastry cream to create different flavor profiles.
  • Prep Time: PT20M
  • Cook Time: PT25M
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French

Find it online: https://patriciarecipes.com/easy-cream-puffs-with-vanilla-cream-filling-recipe/