Mom’s Famous Cream Puffs

Nothing says comfort quite like Mom’s Famous Cream Puffs. Light, airy pastry shells filled with a luscious cream center, these little delights are the perfect balance of elegance and indulgence. Whether for holidays, birthdays, or simply a sweet weekend treat, cream puffs never fail to impress.

Ingredients

For the Pastry

• 1 stick butter

• 1 cup water

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 4 large eggs

Mom’s Famous Filling

• 1 pint heavy cream

• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding

• ⅓ cup milk

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pastry Dough

• In a saucepan, bring butter, water, and vanilla to a boil.

• Add flour all at once, stirring constantly until a ball forms and pulls away from the sides of the pan.

• Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.

2. Incorporate the Eggs

• Beat in eggs one at a time until smooth and glossy. The dough should be thick but pipeable.

3. Shape & Bake

• Drop spoonfuls of dough (about 8 large mounds) onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.

• Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 40 minutes, until golden brown and puffed.

4. Cool Properly

• To prevent deflating, pierce each puff with a toothpick to release steam.

• Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the puffs cool inside.

5. Make the Filling

• In a mixing bowl, whisk together heavy cream, pudding mix, and milk until thickened and creamy.

6. Fill the Puffs

• Slice each puff in half.

• Pipe or spoon the filling generously into the centers.

• Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra-special finish.

Pro Tips

• Size Matters – Make mini cream puffs for parties or keep them large for a stunning dessert centerpiece.

• Flavor Twist – Try chocolate pudding or lemon pudding instead of vanilla for variety.

• Make Ahead – Pastry shells can be baked and frozen; just thaw, crisp in the oven, and fill before serving.

Serving Ideas

Serve cream puffs on a tiered dessert tray for gatherings, or plate individually with a drizzle of chocolate sauce and fresh berries for a restaurant-style presentation.