Dairy Free Cream Puffs
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.
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
- Water
- Dairy-free butter
- Kosher salt
- Gluten-free flour
- Baking powder
- Large eggs, room temperature
Ingredients for Pastry Cream
- Oat milk
- Egg yolks
- Egg
- Sugar
- Vanilla paste or a whole bean
- Pinch of salt
- 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.
Can I use different fillings?
Yes, you can experiment with different creams or custards to fill the puff shells, though the recipe’s pastry cream is specifically designed to complement the pastry.
Equipment
- mixing bowls
- Cookie Sheet
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
Ingredients for Cream Puffs
- 1 cup of water
- 1/2 cup butter I used a dairy free
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1 cup 1.1 GF flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 4 large eggs room temp
Ingredients for Pastry Cream
- 2 cups of Oat Milk
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 egg
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla paste or a whole bean
- pinch of salt
- 4 tbsp cornstarch
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425 degrees and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
- Place a pot over med heat, add the butter and water and bring to a rapid boil.
- Stir in flour, salt, baking powder with a wooden spoon and once it becomes a dough ball place in a mixing bowl.
- Add one egg at a time, mixing at a high speed to avoid scrambling the egg.
- Once all incorporated add to a pastry bag with a large round opening.
- Pipe 2″ diameter cream puffs.
- Bake at 425 for 30-35 mins or until darker than golden brown.
- Remove, place on a wire rack and allow to cool completely.
- Once cooled, cut the top off, pull out the inside leaving the shell only.
- Fill with pastry cream.
- To make the pastry cream:
- Add the oat milk and vanilla and place over medium heat.
- Bring to a boil.
- In a separate bowl mix together the eggs, sugar, salt, and cornstarch.
- Once the milk comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low.
- Whisk one spoonful of the milk into the egg mixture.
- Whisk quickly to temper the eggs.
- Add another spoonful, while you whisk.
- Then add the egg mixture to the pot with the milk.
- Whisk until thick.
- Pour the pastry cream in the bowl, cover and place in the fridge to chill completely. Enjoy!
Cream Puffs are the epitome of comfort and elegance wrapped in a delightful pastry. The satisfaction you’ll get from biting into one of these light, fluffy puffs filled with creamy goodness is immeasurable. This recipe caters to various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor or texture, making it an excellent option for diverse crowds. Its elegant appearance and mouthwatering taste make it ideal for special occasions or as a gourmet treat for yourself.
Easy to make yet incredibly delicious, Cream Puffs are a baking endeavor that pays off immensely in flavor, texture, and compliments from anyone lucky enough to get a taste.