Cream Puffs with Chantilly Cream

Name: Cream Puffs with Chantilly Cream: Delightful Treats Await!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 cup water; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 4 large eggs; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Posted on January 22, 2026

DESSERT

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Introduction to Cream Puffs with Chantilly Cream

Ah, the joy of baking! There’s something magical about creating Cream Puffs with Chantilly Cream that brings a smile to my face. These delightful pastries are not just a treat; they’re a quick solution for busy days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Imagine the look on your family’s faces as they bite into these airy puffs filled with sweet, fluffy cream. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a sweet craving, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Cream Puffs with Chantilly Cream

These Cream Puffs with Chantilly Cream are a delightful blend of ease and elegance. They come together quickly, making them perfect for busy moms like me who crave something special without the fuss. The light, airy texture paired with the sweet, whipped cream filling is simply irresistible. Plus, they’re versatile enough for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to fancy dinner parties. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Ingredients for Cream Puffs with Chantilly Cream

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Cream Puffs with Chantilly Cream. Here’s what you’ll need:

Water: This is the base for your dough, helping to create steam that puffs up the pastries.
Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and flavor. Using unsalted allows you to control the saltiness of your puffs.
All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of the dough, it gives structure to your cream puffs.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Large Eggs: These are crucial for binding the ingredients and creating that airy texture.
Heavy Cream: The star of the show! This is whipped to create the luscious Chantilly cream filling.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the cream and gives it a smooth texture, making it perfect for filling.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of this adds a lovely aroma and flavor to the cream.

Feel free to get creative! You can experiment with flavored extracts like almond or hazelnut for the Chantilly cream. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using whipped topping instead of heavy cream. For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.

How to Make Cream Puffs with Chantilly Cream

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: making these delightful Cream Puffs with Chantilly Cream. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to impressing everyone with your baking skills!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your cream puffs rise beautifully. A hot oven creates steam, which is what makes these pastries puff up and become light and airy. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and ½ cup of unsalted butter. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat. The butter needs to melt completely, and the water should be bubbling. This step is essential because it helps create the right texture for your dough.

Step 3: Mix in Flour and Salt

Once your mixture is boiling, remove it from the heat and stir in 1 cup of all-purpose flour and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Mix vigorously until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan. The texture should be smooth and slightly sticky. This is the foundation of your cream puffs!

Step 4: Cool the Mixture

Let the dough cool for about 5 minutes. Cooling is important because adding eggs to a hot mixture can cook them, which we definitely don’t want. You want the dough to be warm but not hot to the touch before moving on to the next step.

Step 5: Incorporate Eggs

Now, it’s time to add the eggs! Crack 4 large eggs into a bowl and add them one at a time to the cooled dough. Mix well after each addition until the dough is smooth and glossy. This step is key to achieving that airy texture we love in cream puffs.

Step 6: Shape the Puffs

Using a spoon or a piping bag, drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Aim for about 2 inches apart, as they will expand while baking. If you’re using a piping bag, you can create nice, uniform shapes. Just remember, they don’t have to be perfect!

Step 7: Bake the Puffs

Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and puffed up. Resist the urge to open the oven door too soon, as this can cause them to deflate.

Step 8: Cool Completely

Once baked, remove the puffs from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. This step is crucial because filling warm puffs with cream can lead to a melty mess. Patience is key here!

Step 9: Make the Chantilly Cream

While the puffs are cooling, let’s whip up the Chantilly cream. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of heavy cream, ¼ cup of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whip until soft peaks form. This means the cream should hold its shape but still be light and fluffy. It’s the perfect filling for your cream puffs!

Step 10: Fill the Puffs

Finally, it’s time to fill those puffs! Cut the tops off the cooled cream puffs and gently spoon or pipe in the Chantilly cream. Replace the tops and voilà! Your Cream Puffs with Chantilly Cream are ready to be enjoyed. Serve them fresh for the best experience!

Tips for Success

Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
Use a silicone spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl while mixing.
For even baking, rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time.
Don’t rush the cooling process; it’s essential for perfect filling.
Experiment with different flavors in your Chantilly cream for a fun twist!

Equipment Needed

Medium Saucepan: A sturdy pot for boiling water and butter. A small pot works too!
Mixing Bowl: For combining ingredients. Any large bowl will do.
Whisk or Electric Mixer: To whip the cream. A hand whisk is great for a workout!
Baking Sheet: A flat tray for baking. Line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Piping Bag or Spoon: For shaping the puffs. A zip-top bag with a corner cut works in a pinch!

Variations of Cream Puffs with Chantilly Cream

Chocolate Cream Puffs: Add cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolate twist, and fill with chocolate whipped cream.
Fruit-Infused Chantilly Cream: Fold in pureed strawberries or raspberries into the Chantilly cream for a fruity flavor.
Nutty Delight: Incorporate almond or hazelnut extract into the Chantilly cream for a nutty aroma.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Vegan Cream Puffs: Use coconut cream and a plant-based butter substitute to create a vegan-friendly treat.

Serving Suggestions for Cream Puffs with Chantilly Cream

Pair with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
Serve alongside fresh berries for a pop of color and added freshness.
Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
Arrange on a beautiful platter to impress your guests.
Drizzle with chocolate sauce for an indulgent twist!

FAQs about Cream Puffs with Chantilly Cream

As I’ve shared my love for Cream Puffs with Chantilly Cream, I often get questions from fellow home cooks. Here are some of the most common queries I’ve encountered, along with my answers to help you on your baking journey!

Can I make the cream puffs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the puffs a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container after they’ve cooled completely. Fill them with Chantilly cream right before serving for the best texture.

What can I do if my cream puffs don’t rise?

If your cream puffs don’t rise, it could be due to a few reasons. Make sure your oven is preheated properly and avoid opening the oven door too soon. Also, ensure you’ve added enough eggs, as they are crucial for that airy texture.

How do I store leftover cream puffs?

Leftover Cream Puffs with Chantilly Cream should be stored in the refrigerator. They’re best enjoyed within a day for optimal freshness. Just remember, the longer they sit, the softer the pastry will become.

Can I freeze cream puffs?

Yes, you can freeze the baked puffs! Just make sure they’re completely cool before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Fill them with cream after thawing for the best results.

What other fillings can I use besides Chantilly cream?

The possibilities are endless! You can fill your cream puffs with pastry cream, custard, or even ice cream for a fun twist. Get creative and find your favorite filling!

Final Thoughts

Creating Cream Puffs with Chantilly Cream is more than just baking; it’s about sharing joy and deliciousness with those you love. The light, airy texture of the puffs combined with the sweet, fluffy cream is a match made in heaven. Each bite is a little celebration, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or impressing guests at a gathering, these delightful pastries are sure to bring smiles. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and enjoy the sweet rewards of your culinary adventure!