Easy Homemade Cream Puffs – Light, Airy & Irresistible!
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
When it comes to desserts that hit all the right notes—flavor, texture, and appearance—Cream Puffs are high on the list. Whether you’re new to baking or have been at it for years, Cream Puffs are a classic that deserve a spot in your recipe repertoire. The pastry is light, fluffy, and forms a perfect shell, while the filling is a creamy delight that complements it beautifully.
Cream Puffs
It’s a simple yet sophisticated dish that is sure to impress guests or satisfy your own sweet cravings. Notably, this version uses dairy-free butter and gluten-free flour, making it accessible for those with dietary restrictions. Plus, this recipe calls for oat milk, adding another layer of creaminess and flavor to the pastry cream. If you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a satisfying weekend baking project, this is it.
Why You’ll Love Cream Puffs
- Flavorful Yet Simple: The blend of airy pastry with rich, creamy filling is a flavor combination that is hard to beat. The ingredients are straightforward, but the result is anything but plain. It’s a classic dessert that has stood the test of time for good reason.
- Dietary Accommodations: This recipe accommodates various dietary needs by using dairy-free butter and gluten-free flour, without compromising on taste or texture. The use of oat milk in the pastry cream is another thoughtful touch.
- Perfect for Sharing: The recipe yields 6 to 8 appetizer shares, making it ideal for gatherings. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will have your guests coming back for seconds or even thirds.
- Elegant Presentation: While Cream Puffs may look like they require a professional touch, this recipe makes it easy to achieve an elegant result. A simple piping technique will have your puffs looking bakery-worthy.
- Versatile Filling Options: Though the recipe includes a delicious pastry cream filling, the baked puff shells can be filled with various other creams, custards, or even ice cream, allowing you to get creative.
What You Need To Make Cream Puffs
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Mixing bowls
- Cookie Sheet
- Parchment paper
Ingredients You Need To Make Cream Puffs
Ingredients for Cream Puffs
- 1 cup of water
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1 cup 1.1 GF flour or all purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 4 large eggs room temp
Ingredients You Need To Make Pastry Cream
- 2 cups of Oat Milk or regular milk
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 egg
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla paste or a whole bean
- pinch of salt
- 4 tbsp cornstarch
How To Make Cream Puffs
- Preheat the oven to 425 degrees and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
- Place a pot over medium heat, add the butter and water, and bring to a rapid boil.
- Stir in flour, salt, and baking powder until it forms a dough ball. Transfer to a mixing bowl.
- Add one egg at a time, mixing at high speed to avoid scrambling the eggs.
- Once all eggs are incorporated, transfer the mixture to a pastry bag with a large round opening.
- Pipe 2″ diameter cream puffs onto the prepared cookie sheet.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the puffs are darker than golden brown.
- Remove from the oven, place on a wire rack, and allow to cool completely.
- Once cooled, cut off the top and remove the inner filling, leaving just the shell.
- Fill with chilled pastry cream.
Commonly Asked Questions
Can I use regular milk instead of oat milk?
Yes, you can substitute regular milk for oat milk, but the flavor profile may vary slightly.
Can I freeze Cream Puffs?
Cream Puffs are best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen without the filling. Thaw and reheat in the oven before filling and serving.
How long can the pastry cream be stored?
The pastry cream can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.