French Cream Puffs
Delicious French cream puffs feature airy choux pastry filled with whipped cream and topped with chocolate pudding, perfect for elegant desserts or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring water and butter to a boil in a saucepan.
- Turn off the burner and add flour to the water.
- Stir quickly until mixture forms a ball; remove from heat.
- Add eggs all at once and whisk until smooth.
- Drop rounded teaspoonfuls of the mixture onto an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes until golden.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool.
- Slice the tops off the cooled puffs and save.
- Fill the puffs with whipped cream and replace the tops.
- Dust with confectioners sugar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure the water and butter mixture is boiling before adding flour to create a proper dough. If you need a lighter filling, consider using a mix of whipped cream and mascarpone. For variations, try adding a hint of vanilla extract to the whipped cream or even a splash of liqueur for an adult twist. This recipe also pairs beautifully with Irish Chocolate Mint Coffee for a delightful dessert experience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cream puffs as a delightful dessert at a dinner party or special occasion. They are perfect alongside a cup of coffee or tea, and you can also pair them with fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast. For a unique twist, consider serving them with No Cooking Chocolate Ice Cream on the side for an indulgent treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cream puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy. If the puffs are filled, consume them within a day for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French Cream Puffs contains roughly 662 calories, with 10g protein, 122g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (32% of the Daily Value), calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it’s best to bake them fresh for optimal texture. If you want to prepare in advance, bake them and store unfilled puffs in an airtight container, then fill them just before serving.
Why are my cream puffs flat?
Flat cream puffs typically result from undercooking or not enough steam being produced during baking. Ensure your oven is preheated, and avoid opening the door during baking to maintain the temperature. Additionally, make sure the dough is mixed until smooth and glossy before baking.
Can I freeze the cream puffs?
Yes, you can freeze the unfilled cream puffs for up to a month. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw them in the refrigerator before filling and serving. Avoid freezing filled cream puffs as they tend to become soggy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).