Pan Cream Puffs
Cream puffs with a delicate, airy pastry shell filled with a smooth vanilla pudding, perfect for dessert lovers and suitable for gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring water and oleo (butter) to a boil in a saucepan.
- Add flour all at once and stir vigorously until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Beat in one egg at a time until fully incorporated and the dough is smooth.
- Drop spoonfuls or pipe the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake at 400°F for 30 to 35 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
- Do not open the oven during baking to prevent deflating the puffs.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure your cream puffs rise perfectly, make sure to beat the eggs in one at a time, allowing the dough to incorporate fully before adding the next. If you don't have oleo, unsalted butter works just as well. For a flavor twist, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
These cream puffs are delightful filled with whipped cream or custard and can be dusted with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. For a fun twist, serve them alongside a fruit platter or pair them with a refreshing Pussy Foot (Non-Alcoholic Drink) for a festive gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cream puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes to restore their crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pan Cream Puffs contains roughly 1332 calories, with 31g protein, 235g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (86% of the Daily Value), protein (61% of the Daily Value), and calcium (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 621mg 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
Why did my cream puffs not rise?
If your cream puffs did not rise, it could be due to undercooking or opening the oven door too soon during baking. Ensure the oven is preheated and avoid checking them until they are nearly done. Also, make sure to incorporate enough eggs for the right texture.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before piping it onto the baking sheet.
What can I use to fill the cream puffs?
You can fill cream puffs with a variety of fillings such as pastry cream, whipped cream, or even ice cream for a fun dessert. For a fruity twist, consider using a light fruit mousse or a blend of whipped cream and Assorted Fruit With Dip.
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).