Mom’s Famous Cream Puffs

In the realm of irresistible desserts, few confections capture hearts quite like Mom’s Famous Cream Puffs. These golden, airy pastries—crisp on the outside and filled with dreamy vanilla cream—are the kind of homemade treat that never fails to impress. Whether you’re making them for a holiday, potluck, or just because you crave a little sweetness, this step-by-step recipe will help you master them like a pro.

Ingredients

For the Pastry (Choux Dough)

• 1 stick of butter – Adds rich flavor and helps create a crisp exterior.
• 1 cup of water – Essential for steam, which gives the pastry its puff.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds a subtle sweetness and aroma.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – The structure-building base of the pastry.
• 4 eggs – Provide lift, richness, and the classic choux texture.

For Mom’s Famous Filling

• 1 pint heavy cream – Whipped to create a light, fluffy filling.
• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding – Adds sweetness, flavor, and stabilizes the cream.
• ⅓ cup milk – Helps blend the pudding with the whipped cream smoothly.

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Choux Pastry

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring butter, water, and vanilla extract to a rolling boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and add the flour all at once. Stir vigorously until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
4. Remove from heat and allow to cool for 5 minutes.
5. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition until smooth and glossy.
6. Drop tablespoon-sized mounds of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them a few inches apart.
7. Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden brown and puffed. Avoid opening the oven door early!
8. Remove and cool completely before filling.

Step 2: Make the Cream Filling

1. In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding and milk until smooth.
3. Gently fold the pudding into the whipped cream until well combined and fluffy.
4. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 3: Assemble the Cream Puffs

1. Slice each cooled puff in half horizontally.
2. Spoon or pipe a generous amount of cream filling into the bottom half.
3. Replace the top and dust with powdered sugar for a classic touch.

Why This Recipe Is Loved

Mom’s Famous Cream Puffs are more than just a dessert—they’re a bite of nostalgia. The recipe uses simple ingredients but delivers impressive results. The texture contrast between the crisp pastry shell and the silky filling makes every bite unforgettable. Plus, this recipe is versatile: you can customize the filling or drizzle them with chocolate for extra flair.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cream Puffs

• Don’t underbake! Fully cooked shells will stay puffed and hold the filling well.
• Cool completely before filling to avoid soggy puffs.
• Use a piping bag for elegant, bakery-style presentation.
• Store unfilled puffs in an airtight container and fill just before serving for best texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cream puffs as a show-stopping finale to a holiday meal, an afternoon tea delight, or a potluck dessert tray. Pair them with fresh berries or a drizzle of melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch. They’re also perfect as a make-ahead dessert—just refrigerate and dust with sugar before serving.

Conclusion

Mom’s Famous Cream Puffs prove that with a little love and a great recipe, you can create bakery-worthy desserts right in your own kitchen. Easy to make, endlessly enjoyable, and truly unforgettable—this is a dessert that deserves a permanent place in your family’s recipe box. Try it today, and taste why it’s become a classic in kitchens everywhere.