The BEST Cream Puff Cake Recipe
This Cream Puff Cake is the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of classic cream puffs without the hassle. With a light choux pastry base, a rich vanilla cream filling, and a decadent chocolate drizzle, it’s an elegant yet easy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Make it ahead for the best results, and enjoy a slice of this irresistible treat!
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 30 minutes mins
Chilling Time 2 hours hrs
Total Time 2 hours hrs 45 minutes mins
For the Pastry Base:
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
For the Filling:
- 1 8 oz package cream cheese, softened
- 2 3.4 oz boxes instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped topping such as Cool Whip
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- Powdered sugar optional, for garnish
Make the Pastry Base: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a saucepan bring the water and butter to a boil over medium heat. Remove from heat and quickly stir in the flour until a smooth dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl. Add the eggs one at a time beating well after each addition until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until puffed and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk, beating until thick and creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping until well combined.
- Spread the filling evenly over the cooled pastry base. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Make the Chocolate Drizzle: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and heavy cream in 15-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Drizzle the melted chocolate over the chilled cake. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
- Slice and serve chilled. Enjoy!
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For a richer filling, use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping.
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Make it ahead for an even better texture. The cake tastes best after chilling for several hours.
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Customize the topping with white chocolate, caramel, or fresh berries.
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Use a serrated knife to cut clean slices without squishing the layers.
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Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover tightly to keep it fresh.