Homemade Cream Puffs

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Cream puffs are one of those timeless desserts that seem fancy, but are surprisingly simple to make once you understand the basics. Their golden, crisp pastry shells and fluffy, lightly sweetened cream filling make them a go-to dessert for parties, holidays, or whenever you’re looking to impress. While they may look like something from a high-end French patisserie, cream puffs only require a handful of pantry staples and a bit of technique.

This recipe walks you through everything—how to make the classic French choux pastry (pâte à choux), how to bake them just right so they puff up and hold their shape, and how to fill them with luscious whipped cream. Best of all, there’s no need for complicated tools or ingredients. If you have eggs, butter, flour, and cream, you’re well on your way.

In American home kitchens, cream puffs have gained popularity not only for their elegance but for their adaptability. You can keep them classic with vanilla whipped cream, or get creative with chocolate mousse, pastry cream, or even ice cream for a profiterole-style twist. But nothing beats the classic version—golden shells with soft centers, filled to the brim with fresh whipped cream, and topped with a dusting of powdered sugar.

There’s something deeply satisfying about watching the shells puff up in the oven and then cooling them down to reveal the perfect hollow center, ready to be filled. They’re light but rich, crisp yet creamy. The contrast in textures is what makes cream puffs so addictive.

In this version, we stay true to the original spirit but keep the recipe streamlined and approachable for home bakers. You don’t need to be a pastry chef to master this—you just need a little patience and the willingness to trust the process.

Whether you’re baking for a special gathering or just want to indulge in a delightful treat, these homemade cream puffs deliver every time. They store well, taste even better the next day, and can be customized with various fillings or toppings.

This recipe is family-friendly, alcohol-free, and suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences. Plus, the satisfaction of biting into your own freshly made cream puff? Unbeatable.

Many first-time bakers are intimidated by the idea of making choux pastry. But once you try it and see how forgiving it actually is, you’ll want to make it again and again. The real magic is in watching humble ingredients transform into something so delicate and delicious.

Cream puffs are great for gifting, serving on dessert platters, or even packing for picnics or lunchboxes. They’re mess-free, hand-held, and endlessly crowd-pleasing. And because they don’t require utensils, they’re perfect for casual gatherings too.

The lightness of the whipped cream combined with the structure of the pastry shell means these treats never feel too heavy, making them ideal for ending a meal on a sweet, satisfying note without going overboard.

One bite into a homemade cream puff and you’ll understand why these are adored around the world. There’s an almost nostalgic quality to them—a sense of comfort, familiarity, and luxury, all at once.

So roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and let’s make some magic in your kitchen. Your future self (and your lucky guests) will thank you.

Servings

Makes 12 cream puffs

Time

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Cooling Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Ingredients

For the choux pastry:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs

For the whipped cream filling:

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For topping:

• Extra powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, water, and salt. Bring to a rolling boil.
3. Remove from heat and add flour all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
4. Return the pan to low heat and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1-2 minutes to dry out the dough slightly.
5. Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and let cool for 5 minutes.
6. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The dough should be smooth and glossy.
7. Spoon or pipe the dough onto the prepared baking sheet into 2-inch mounds, spacing about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 20 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake an additional 15 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
9. Turn off the oven and leave the puffs inside for 5-10 minutes to dry out the centers.
10. Remove from oven and cool completely on a wire rack.
11. For the filling, whip the cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until stiff peaks form.
12. Slice each cooled puff in half and fill generously with whipped cream using a spoon or piping bag.
13. Dust tops with powdered sugar before serving.

Tips

• Don’t open the oven door early—this can cause the puffs to collapse.
• Make sure the dough cools slightly before adding eggs, or they may scramble.
• You can make the shells ahead and freeze them; just re-crisp in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes before filling.
• Chill the mixing bowl and beaters before whipping cream for best results.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

It’s easier than it looks and delivers bakery-quality results at home. These cream puffs are delicate, rich, and versatile. The contrast of crisp pastry and soft cream is irresistible. They’re customizable, crowd-pleasing, and look gorgeous on a plate. It’s a dessert that never goes out of style.

This Homemade Cream Puffs Recipe brings classic French pastry into your kitchen without the fuss. With simple ingredients and clear instructions, you’ll create airy, golden shells and rich whipped cream filling that make every bite a delight.