Old Fashioned Cream Puffs
Light and airy cream puffs with crisp shells and creamy filling, perfect for elegant desserts or casual gatherings, suitable for all ages and sweet tooth cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat water, butter, sugar, and salt to a rolling boil in a saucepan.
- Add flour all at once and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until thick and smooth, about 1 minute, staying away from the sides of the pan.
- Remove from heat and add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Use a wooden spoon or electric mixer until the paste is shiny and smooth.
- Drop tablespoons of the batter onto an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 to 30 minutes until golden and puffed.
- Let the cream puffs cool completely.
- Fill each cream puff with instant pudding, vanilla or chocolate flavor before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For perfect cream puffs, ensure the batter is smooth and shiny before baking. If you don't have butter, margarine can be used as a substitute. To achieve even puffing, avoid opening the oven door while they bake. You can also try filling them with whipped cream or custard for a twist. For a delightful treat, serve alongside Double Almond Cookies.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cream puffs dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. They pair beautifully with a side of fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. Consider serving them alongside Grandma'S Pear Salad for a refreshing contrast. These treats are perfect for parties or as a delightful afternoon snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cream puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain their crispness, avoid filling them until just before serving. If needed, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to restore some of their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Cream Puffs contains roughly 240 calories, with 1g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 611mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
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 in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before baking to ensure even puffing.
What can I use to fill the cream puffs?
You can fill cream puffs with a variety of fillings such as whipped cream, pastry cream, or even ice cream. Instant pudding, whether vanilla or chocolate, is also a quick and delicious option.
Why didn't my cream puffs puff up?
Cream puffs may not puff up if the dough was not cooked long enough on the stovetop, or if the oven temperature was too low when baking. Ensure your batter is thick and smooth, and bake at the correct temperature for the specified time.
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).