Mint Chocolate Cream Puffs
Mint Chocolate Cream Puffs combine light choux pastry with rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint flavors, topped with whipped nondairy topping—perfect for a delightful, elegant dessert.
Ingredients
- nonstick cooking spray ⓘ
- 1/2 cup water ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons margarine ⓘ
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour ⓘ
- 2 eggs ⓘ
- 1 (4-serving size) package reduced calorie regular vanilla pudding mix (not instant) ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder ⓘ
- 1/8 teaspoon peppermint extract ⓘ
- 1/2 cup frozen whipped nondairy dessert topping (light)
- ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Spray a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
- In a small saucepan, combine water and margarine.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Add all the flour at once, stirring vigorously until the mixture forms a ball that doesn't separate from the sides of the pan.
- Remove from heat and cool for 5 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until the mixture is shiny and smooth.
- Drop the mixture by spoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet, forming 8 mounds about 3 inches apart.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 20 minutes or until golden and puffed.
- Allow the puffs to cool completely.
- Prepare the filling by mixing the vanilla pudding with cocoa powder and peppermint extract according to package instructions.
- Fill each puff with the pudding mixture.
- Top with frozen whipped nondairy dessert topping and sprinkle with ground nutmeg before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use room temperature eggs to help the dough rise properly. If you don't have peppermint extract, you can substitute with a few drops of mint oil or omit it entirely for a classic chocolate cream puff. Ensure your flour is fresh for optimal texture. Consider making a double batch and pairing with Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies 'No Bake' for a delightful dessert platter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these mint chocolate cream puffs as a delightful dessert at your next gathering. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added indulgence. Consider serving alongside Spicy Breakfast Treats for a brunch spread or as a sweet finish to a meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cream puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate the filled puffs for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mint Chocolate Cream Puffs contains roughly 167 calories, with 4g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to bake the puffs fresh, as they are best enjoyed immediately after baking.
What can I use instead of margarine?
You can substitute margarine with unsalted butter for a richer flavor. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, choose a plant-based butter alternative. Just ensure that whatever substitute you choose is suitable for baking.
How do I prevent the puffs from deflating?
To prevent deflation, ensure that you do not open the oven door during baking. Additionally, allow the puffs to cool completely before filling them, as steam trapped inside can cause them to collapse if filled too soon.
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).