Mom’s Famous Cream Puffs

Introduction

I can’t even begin to tell you how much my family loves these cream puffs. Every time I make them, it’s like a special occasion. These delightful treats have been passed down through the generations, and every time I take a bite, it feels like a warm hug from my mom. The flaky, golden exterior paired with the rich, creamy filling makes these cream puffs a dessert worth celebrating. My kids adore them, and they never last long in the kitchen! They’re a hit at every family gathering and are often the first thing to disappear at parties. If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that is both impressive and absolutely delicious, look no further than Mom’s Famous Cream Puffs.

Why You’ll Love Mom’s Famous Cream Puffs

Mom’s Famous Cream Puffs are an absolute crowd-pleaser. From the light, airy shell to the creamy, dreamy filling, these little puffs of perfection will melt in your mouth. The best part is that they are surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners. While the thought of making cream puffs might sound intimidating, this recipe is straightforward, and the results are nothing short of spectacular. The delicate, golden crust and rich, homemade filling make this dessert irresistible. Plus, the combination of vanilla and whipped cream gives these cream puffs a classic, comforting flavor that never gets old. Whether you’re making them for a holiday celebration or just a family treat, you’ll be sure to get rave reviews.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make Mom’s Famous Cream Puffs:

For the Cream Puff Shells:

• 1 stick butter (8 tablespoons)
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 eggs

For Mom’s Famous Filling:

• 1 pint heavy cream
• 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
• ⅓ cup milk

Instructions

Making Mom’s Famous Cream Puffs is simpler than you might think! Just follow these easy steps:

For the Cream Puff Shells:

1. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the butter, water, and vanilla extract. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
2. Once boiling, add the flour all at once and stir constantly with a wooden spoon until the dough pulls away from the sides of the pot and forms a ball.
3. Remove the dough from the heat and allow it to cool for a few minutes.
4. Once cooled slightly, beat in the eggs one at a time. Be sure to mix thoroughly after each addition until the dough is smooth and glossy.
5. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Using a tablespoon, drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake the cream puffs in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until they are puffed up and golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and let the puffs cool completely on a wire rack.

For Mom’s Famous Filling:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, vanilla pudding mix, and milk together until the mixture thickens and forms soft peaks (like whipped cream).
2. Once the cream puffs have cooled, slice each puff in half horizontally.
3. Pipe or scoop the filling into the bottom half of each cream puff.
4. Place the top halves back on, gently pressing down to secure the puff.
5. Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 16 cream puffs
• Calories per serving: 250
  (Note: These are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used)

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25-30 minutes
• Total time: 40-45 minutes

How to Serve

These cream puffs are best served fresh, but they also keep well in the refrigerator for a day or two. Here are some ideas for serving them:

• For dessert: Serve these cream puffs as a showstopper at dinner parties or holiday meals.
• For snacks: Pack them in airtight containers and enjoy them as a sweet treat throughout the week.
• For brunch: Pair these cream puffs with coffee or tea for a special brunch gathering.
• For a gift: Wrap these cream puffs in a decorative box or tin and give them as a homemade gift.
• For family gatherings: Bring these to a picnic, barbecue, or family get-together, and watch them disappear.

Additional Tips

1. Don’t open the oven early: The key to making the perfect cream puff is allowing it to puff up properly. Avoid opening the oven door during the first 20 minutes of baking.
2. Cool completely: Let the cream puffs cool completely before slicing them in half. This will prevent the filling from melting or becoming too runny.
3. Add a flavor twist: For a unique variation, you can add flavored extracts to the filling, such as almond or hazelnut, or even mix in some chocolate chips.
4. Make ahead: You can make the cream puff shells ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just fill them right before serving.
5. Perfect piping: If you don’t have a piping bag, you can simply use a spoon or a Ziploc bag with the tip cut off to pipe the filling into the puffs.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make these cream puffs ahead of time? Yes, the shells can be baked in advance and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Fill them just before serving.
2. Can I use a different type of filling? Absolutely! You can experiment with different fillings such as chocolate mousse, whipped cream, or fruit-flavored fillings.
3. Can I freeze cream puffs? Yes, you can freeze the cream puff shells before filling them. Just bake them, let them cool, and store in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. Fill them after thawing.
4. How can I make sure my cream puffs don’t deflate? Make sure you allow the puffs to cool completely on a wire rack and don’t open the oven door during the initial baking time.
5. Can I use store-bought pudding for the filling? While homemade pudding is best for this recipe, you can substitute store-bought vanilla pudding if you’re in a pinch.
6. Do I have to use heavy cream for the filling? Heavy cream gives the filling its rich, smooth texture, but you can substitute with whipped topping if desired.
7. Can I make these cream puffs smaller? Yes, you can reduce the size of the puffs, but be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, checking them earlier to prevent overbaking.
8. Can I use a different type of flour? All-purpose flour is best for cream puffs, but you could experiment with gluten-free flour if needed, though the texture may differ slightly.
9. How do I get the cream puffs to stay crispy? After baking, make sure to let the cream puffs cool completely on a rack to prevent them from becoming soggy.
10. Can I add toppings to the cream puffs? Yes! You can drizzle melted chocolate on top, add chopped nuts, or sprinkle with additional powdered sugar for a decorative touch.

Conclusion

Mom’s Famous Cream Puffs are a classic dessert that has been loved by my family for years. With their light, golden exterior and rich, creamy filling, they’re the perfect combination of textures and flavors. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just as a weekend treat, these cream puffs are sure to impress. They’re easy to make, customizable, and always a hit. If you’ve never made cream puffs before, this recipe is a great starting point. Try making these today, and see why they’ve become a family favorite in our house!

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