Name: Strawberry Cream Puffs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup water; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 4 large eggs; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped

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Delicate, fluffy cream puffs filled with a luscious strawberry-flavored cream. These Strawberry Cream Puffs are the perfect sweet treat to serve at spring and summer gatherings. They offer a light, airy texture that’s complemented by the refreshing flavor of strawberries, making them irresistible for any occasion.

Ingredients

1 cup water

1/2 cup unsalted butter

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 teaspoon salt

4 large eggs

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/4 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a saucepan, combine water and butter over medium heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and add flour and salt, stirring constantly until the mixture forms a smooth dough.

Remove the dough from the heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the dough is smooth and glossy.

Spoon the dough into a pastry bag fitted with a large round tip, or use two spoons to form small mounds of dough on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and have puffed up. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

While the puffs are cooling, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in the vanilla extract and chopped strawberries.

Once the puffs are completely cool, slice them in half and spoon the strawberry cream filling into each one. Top with the other half of the puff to create a sandwich.

Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12 servings. The preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 25 minutes, so the total time from start to finish is approximately 40 minutes.

Variations

Different Fruit Filling: If strawberries aren’t in season or if I want a different flavor, I can swap the strawberries for other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or peaches for a fresh, fruity filling.

Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra indulgent touch, I can drizzle melted chocolate on top of the puffs before serving.

Whipped Cream Alternative: If I’m in the mood for something different, I can swap the whipped cream for a mascarpone cream or a vanilla custard filling to elevate the flavor.

Storage/reheating

I can store these cream puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The puffs will stay fresh, but the pastry may lose some of its crispness. To bring back a little of the crispness, I can place the cream puffs in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes. I’d recommend filling the puffs with cream just before serving if I plan on storing them for later to keep the pastry from becoming soggy.

FAQs

How can I make sure my cream puffs turn out light and fluffy?

To ensure the cream puffs are light and airy, it’s important to follow the dough-making steps carefully. I make sure to cook the dough well before adding the eggs, and when mixing in the eggs, I add them one at a time and make sure the dough remains smooth.

Can I freeze the cream puffs?

Yes, I can freeze the unfilled cream puffs! After baking and cooling them completely, I can place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, I can thaw them at room temperature and fill them with the whipped cream mixture.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, I can prepare the strawberry cream filling in advance. I’ll store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best to fill the puffs with the cream just before serving for the best texture.

How can I prevent the puffs from becoming soggy?

To avoid soggy cream puffs, I make sure they are completely cooled before filling them with the cream. I also avoid filling them too far in advance and opt to fill them right before serving for the best texture.

Can I use store-bought whipped cream?

Yes, if I’m in a pinch, I can use store-bought whipped cream instead of making my own. However, the homemade whipped cream adds a richer, fresher flavor that complements the strawberries better.

Conclusion

These Strawberry Cream Puffs are a delightful dessert that’s both elegant and simple to prepare. The light pastry combined with the creamy strawberry filling makes for a treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s for a family gathering, a special celebration, or just a sweet indulgence, I know these will be a hit. The beauty of this recipe is in its versatility and how it’s a fresh take on a classic dessert. I love how easy it is to make and how rewarding it is to enjoy.

Recipe:

Strawberry Cream Puffs

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These Strawberry Cream Puffs are a delightful treat that combines the light, fluffy texture of a golden pastry with a rich, strawberry-flavored cream filling. Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, these cream puffs are simple to prepare and will impress your guests with their beautiful appearance and delicious taste. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a sweet treat, these Strawberry Cream Puffs are sure to become a favorite!

Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 12 servings