Mini Cream Puffs
Delightful mini cream puffs with fluffy pastry shells filled with vanilla pudding and topped with Cool Whip and cherries, perfect for parties and sweet gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Heat water and margarine to a rolling boil.
- Stir in flour vigorously over low heat until the mixture forms a ball, about 1 minute.
- Remove from heat.
- Beat in eggs thoroughly, one at a time, until smooth.
- Drop dough by rounded teaspoonfuls onto a slightly greased cookie sheet.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown and dry.
- Cool the puffs.
- Cut off the tops and scoop out the filaments from each puff.
- Make vanilla pudding according to package directions.
- Fill the puffs with pudding.
- Top each filled puff with a dollop of Cool Whip and half a cherry.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your eggs are at room temperature before adding them to the dough to achieve a smoother texture. If you don't have margarine, unsalted butter can be used as a substitute. To add a bit of flavor, consider incorporating a splash of vanilla extract into the dough. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy American recipes with a touch of elegance.
Serving Suggestions
These mini cream puffs make an excellent dessert at gatherings, pairing beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a light berry compote. For an extra indulgence, serve them alongside a cup of coffee or tea. They are perfect for parties and can be arranged on a platter for an impressive display, fitting well into a dessert table featuring Caramel Filled Brownies.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cream puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain their texture, avoid filling them with pudding until you're ready to serve. If needed, you can reheat unfilled puffs in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes to crisp them up before filling.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mini Cream Puffs contains roughly 67 calories, with 1g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 cream puffs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the puffs a day in advance. Bake them and store in an airtight container at room temperature. Fill them with pudding and Cool Whip just before serving to keep them fresh and prevent sogginess.
What can I use instead of Cool Whip?
If you're looking for a substitute for Cool Whip, you can use homemade whipped cream. Simply whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This will add a fresh and natural flavor to your cream puffs.
How can I tell when the puffs are done baking?
The cream puffs are done when they are golden brown and dry to the touch. They should have a hollow sound when tapped on the bottom. Avoid opening the oven door too early, as this can cause them to collapse.
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).