Cream Puffs with Mom’s Celebrated Filling Recipe

Cream puffs are timeless treats, offering a delightful combination of airy pastry and creamy filling. This recipe brings a special touch with a filling inspired by “Mom’s Celebrated Filling,” which adds richness and nostalgia. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or indulging in a sweet craving, these cream puffs are guaranteed to impress. With a crispy shell and velvety filling, this dessert perfectly balances textures and flavors. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create this classic treat that’s surprisingly simple yet utterly delicious.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Cooling Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Ingredients

For the Cream Puffs:

• 1 stick butter
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs

For Mom’s Celebrated Filling:

• 1/2 quart (2 cups) heavy whipping cream
• 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1/3 cup milk

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Cream Puff Shells

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the butter and water. Heat over medium-high heat until the butter melts and the mixture starts to boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low and quickly stir in the flour until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan. Remove from heat.
4. Let the dough cool slightly, about 5 minutes. This prevents the eggs from cooking when added.
5. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition until the dough is smooth and glossy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Using a spoon or piping bag, drop or pipe mounds of dough (about 2 tablespoons each) onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the puffs are golden brown and crisp. Avoid opening the oven during baking, as this may cause them to deflate.
8. Remove the cream puffs from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 2: Preparing Mom’s Celebrated Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, instant vanilla pudding mix, and milk.
2. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until stiff peaks form. This process typically takes 3–5 minutes. The filling should be thick and hold its shape.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 3: Assembling the Cream Puffs

1. Once the cream puff shells are fully cooled, use a serrated knife to slice them in half horizontally.
2. Fill each shell with a generous amount of Mom’s celebrated filling using a piping bag or spoon. Alternatively, you can cut a small slit in the side of each puff and pipe the filling directly inside for a neater presentation.
3. Place the filled puffs on a serving tray. Dust with powdered sugar for a finishing touch, if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these heavenly cream puffs as a dessert for parties, family gatherings, or even as an afternoon treat with tea or coffee. They pair beautifully with fresh fruit, a drizzle of chocolate, or even a caramel glaze.

Tips for Perfect Cream Puffs

• Ensure the dough cools slightly before adding eggs to prevent the eggs from cooking.
• For a crispier shell, turn off the oven after baking and let the puffs sit inside for 10 minutes with the door slightly ajar.
• Make the filling just before assembly to maintain its fresh and creamy texture.

Mastering the art of cream puffs is simpler than it seems. With their light, golden shells and the decadence of Mom’s Celebrated Filling, this dessert is bound to become a family favorite. Perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, these cream puffs embody comfort and elegance in every bite. Try them today, and enjoy the joy of baking a classic treat that’s sure to delight!