Cream puffs are one of the most delicious and elegant pastries. Since they look like a โRoyal pastryโ or luxurious, people often think these puffs can only be made by professionals. NO- They are so easy to make at home, literally requiring minimal ingredients.
If you want to watch the full video recipe just scroll down to find it. Otherwise, keep reading…
We have simplified the recipe so it can be straightforward with a no-fail instruction so anyone can master it. At the end you will have these light golden puffs which are so crispy on the outside but fluffy and hollow from the inside.
And when filled with creamy custard, these are the perfect texture and balance of flavors!
You literally need just five ingredients to make the choux pastries and all of the ingredients are from the basic pantry. They are impressive and easy to make so you will find yourself making them often.
In no time these choux pastry will become a household favorite. Indeed, these are great for fancy dinners or to impress everyone at a party!
Ingredients Breakdown
Following are the ingredients that you will need to make this amazing cake:
The actual amounts will be on the recipe card below.
For Choux Pastry
- Water: Water is like a raising and binding agent for the choux pastry. When the choux pastry is baked, the water creates steam leaving behind airy and fluffy choux pastries with hollow centers.
- Salt: Salt is crucial for flavoring the puffs otherwise they will taste bland.
- Butter: Butter will give the puff the rich taste and also helps them get the crisp golden coloring while baking.
- All-purpose flour: Flour is the basic ingredient to make the dough. We recommend using the best quality one.
- Eggs: Eggs will help the choux to maintain its structure. It also adds richness to the choux because of yolks.
For Custard Filling
- Flour: It is a thickening agent for the custard. We will recommend using cake flour. But all-purpose works too.
- Sugar: Sugar will add the sweetness to the custard. You can replace it with any sweeteners you like.
- Salt: Salt will help in enhancing the flavor of the custard.
- Milk: We are using full-fat milk for making the custard rich. You can use any plant-based milk as well but might need to add more flour to adjust the consistency of the custard.
- Egg yolks: Yolks will give the custard the rich and velvety texture. It also works as a binder for the custard.
- Vanilla extract: Adding vanilla extract is optional but highly recommended. It gives delicious floral notes with sweet aroma.
Instructions
Making cream puff is easy but still needs attention to details. So, we highly recommend reading the recipeโs instructions thoroughly before starting.
The best way to avoid any mishaps is to make sure each ingredient is measured out and readily available to use during the cooking process.
See the full preparation in the recipe card below with the complete instructions on how to prepare yourself to make these delicious and easy Cream puffs.
Cream Puffs with Simple Ingredients
Description
These cream puffs are the kind of dessert that always impresses, yet theyโre easier to make than youโd think. With crisp golden shells and a smooth custard filling, these little pastries are perfect for parties, holidays, or even just an indulgent afternoon treat. Follow along and make this delicious treat your own!
Ingredients
For Choux Pastry
For Custard Filling
Whipped Cream (Optional)
Instructions
Make the Choux Pastry
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Preheat oven to 190ยฐC (375ยฐF).
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In a saucepan, combine water, salt, and butter. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
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Add flour all at once and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the pan.
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Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
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Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, until the dough is smooth and glossy.
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Transfer dough to a piping bag (or use a spoon) and pipe small rounds onto a parchment-lined baking tray.
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Bake for 10 minutes at 190ยฐC (375ยฐF). Reduce oven temperature to 170ยฐC (340ยฐF) and continue baking for 30 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
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Let cool completely on a wire rack.
Make the Custard Filling
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Whisk together flour, sugar, and salt in a bowl.
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Heat milk in a saucepan until just about to boil Then add dry ingredients while whisking continuously until the milk thickens.
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Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg yolks while whisking constantly to avoid curdling.
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Return mixture to saucepan and cook on low-medium, stirring constantly until it thickens into a smooth custard.
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Add vanilla extract if desired.
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Cover with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent skin from forming. Cool completely.
Whipped Cream
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In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream with sugar until soft peaks form.
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Fold into custard for a lighter filling, or use separately as topping.
Assemble the Cream Puffs
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Slice each puff in half horizontally.
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Pipe custard into the base of each puff.
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Close with the puff top and dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Required Equipments
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Nutrition Facts
Servings 12
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 210kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 10g16%
- Saturated Fat 8g40%
- Cholesterol 105mg35%
- Sodium 120mg5%
- Potassium 100mg3%
- Total Carbohydrate 18g6%
- Dietary Fiber 0.5g2%
- Sugars 7g
- Protein 5g10%
- Calcium 55 mg
- Iron 0.8 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- These values are estimates based on 12 cream puffs with filling.
- Dusting with powdered sugar or adding chocolate sauce will slightly increase calories and sugar.
- Using low-fat milk or reducing whipped cream can lower fat content.
Alternatives + Pros/Cons
- Custard Thickener: Cornstarch instead of flour creates a silkier cream, but flour gives a slightly richer texture.
- Whipped Cream: Folding into custard makes it lighter but adds more fat.
- Sugar Levels: Increase sugar for a sweeter filling, or reduce it to highlight vanilla flavor.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
- Eggs: Provide protein and essential vitamins that support energy and brain health.
- Milk: Rich in calcium and vitamin D, promoting strong bones.
- Butter: Adds flavor and texture โ best enjoyed in moderation.
- Flour: A good source of energy from carbohydrates.
