Famous Cream Puffs

These Famous Cream Puffs are light, airy pastry shells filled with a smooth, creamy vanilla filling. Made with classic choux pastry, they puff beautifully in the oven and create a crisp exterior with a soft, hollow center—perfect for filling. This timeless dessert is popular at bakeries, parties, and special occasions and is surprisingly simple to make at home.

Ingredients

For the Choux Pastry (Cream Puff Shells):

• 1 cup (240 ml) water

• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter

• 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 4 large eggs, room temperature

For the Cream Filling:

• 1½ cups (360 ml) heavy whipping cream

• ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

(Optional alternative: vanilla pastry cream or custard)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a medium saucepan, combine the water and butter. Bring to a boil over medium heat until the butter is fully melted.

Add the flour and salt all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.

Add the Eggs

Remove the saucepan from heat and let the dough cool for 3–5 minutes.

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the dough becomes smooth, thick, and glossy.

Shape the Cream Puffs

Spoon or pipe the dough into small mounds (about 2 tablespoons each) onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart.

Bake

Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until the cream puffs are puffed, golden brown, and firm.

Do not open the oven during baking. Once done, remove and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.

Prepare the Cream Filling

In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

Fill the Cream Puffs

Slice each cream puff in half or create a small opening on the side. Fill generously with whipped cream using a spoon or piping bag.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve immediately for best texture

• Lightly dust with powdered sugar if desired

• Ideal for desserts, parties, or special occasions

Storage Tips

• Store unfilled cream puffs at room temperature for up to 1 day

• Filled cream puffs should be refrigerated and enjoyed within 24 hours