Cream Puffs with Vanilla Whipped Cream and Sweet Glaze Recipe

If you have a soft spot for delicate pastries that melt in your mouth, you are going to absolutely fall in love with this Cream Puffs with Vanilla Whipped Cream and Sweet Glaze Recipe. These light, airy puffs combine a perfectly crisp shell with luscious vanilla-infused whipped cream, all topped with a glossy sweet glaze that adds just the right amount of indulgence. Every bite feels like a tender little celebration, making it a favorite for special occasions or an everyday dessert that brings a smile to your face. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll quickly become your go-to treat to impress friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Believe it or not, this Cream Puffs with Vanilla Whipped Cream and Sweet Glaze Recipe calls for simple, pantry-staple ingredients that come together to create pure magic. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s creating the perfect puff texture, adding that rich vanilla flavor, or delivering a sweet finish that keeps you coming back for more.

• Unsalted butter: Essential for buttery, crisp shells with rich flavor and perfect puffing.
• Water: Helps create steam so the dough rises perfectly in the oven.
• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the dough that gives the puffs their structure.
• Salt: Balances flavor and enhances the sweetness just right.
• Large eggs: Add moisture and richness, and help achieve that glossy dough consistency.
• Heavy cream: Whipped to heavenly peaks, it makes the filling light yet indulgent.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths both the whipped cream and the glaze perfectly.
• Vanilla extract: Infuses the whipped cream with warm, aromatic vanilla notes for that comforting dessert feel.
• Milk or water: Just a splash to create the right consistency for the glaze.

How to Make Cream Puffs with Vanilla Whipped Cream and Sweet Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Baking Surface

Start off by preheating your oven to a lively 400°F (200°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, which makes cleaning up a breeze and helps the cream puffs bake evenly with a perfect golden crust.

Step 2: Make the Puff Dough

Next, melt the butter with water in a saucepan over medium-high heat until boiling. Once it reaches that perfect rolling boil, remove from heat and quickly stir in the flour and salt all at once. Return it to heat and stir non-stop for about 1 to 2 minutes until the dough pulls away from the sides forming a smooth ball. This step is key because it gives the puffs their sturdy yet airy structure.

Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs

Let your dough cool for a minute so it doesn’t scramble the eggs. Then add eggs one at a time, beating vigorously until fully incorporated. The dough should become glossy and smooth — this is the texture that will create those signature puffed shells that are crispy on the outside but hollow inside, ready for all that creamy filling.

Step 4: Pipe or Spoon the Dough

Using a piping bag or a spoon, drop small mounds of dough about 1 to 1 ½ inches in diameter onto your prepared sheet. Leave enough space around each mound for them to rise and puff beautifully – around 2 inches apart does the trick.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide your tray into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cream puffs are a gorgeous golden brown and puffed up tall. Pro tip: resist opening the oven during the first 15 minutes to prevent your puffs from collapsing. The anticipation here is totally worth it!

Step 6: Cool and Prepare for Filling

Once baked, cool the cream puffs completely on a wire rack. When cooled, gently poke a small hole in the side of each puff with a knife or skewer — this is where your luscious vanilla whipped cream will soon go for a delightful filling experience.

Step 7: Whip the Vanilla Cream

In a mixing bowl, whip together heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. The cream should be light and fluffy, rich with vanilla aroma but not overbeaten to avoid turning it into butter.

Step 8: Fill the Puffs with Cream

Using a piping bag with a small tip or simply a spoon, fill each cooled cream puff through the hole with your sumptuous vanilla whipped cream. Seeing the puffs come alive with creamy goodness is one of those simple kitchen joys.

Step 9: Make the Sweet Glaze

Whisk together powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon milk or water in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust with a bit more liquid for a thinner glaze if you desire that elegant drizzled look that also adds a sweet, glossy finish.

Step 10: Drizzle the Glaze on Top

Drizzle the sweet glaze generously over the filled cream puffs for that irresistible finishing touch. This glaze isn’t just decorative — it adds an extra layer of sweetness that perfectly complements the airy choux pastry and vanilla cream inside.

How to Serve Cream Puffs with Vanilla Whipped Cream and Sweet Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a dusting of powdered sugar or add some finely chopped fresh mint for a pop of color and freshness. A few fresh berries on the side will also elevate the dish’s look and add a subtle tart contrast to the sweet filling.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee, tea, or even a light fruit salad. The delicate, creamy texture of these cream puffs pairs wonderfully with drinks or a simple plate of citrus fruits that brighten the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, arrange your cream puffs on a tiered cake stand to showcase their elegance. You can also cut them in half and layer with additional fresh fruit or use different flavored whipped creams like chocolate or raspberry to surprise your guests. The possibilities are as infinite as your creativity!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once filled, cream puffs are best enjoyed the same day to appreciate their crisp shells. However, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, though the shells will soften over time.

Freezing

To freeze, keep the unfilled shells in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw and fill with freshly whipped cream and glaze.

Reheating

Reheat frozen shells in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 to 7 minutes to restore their crunch before filling. Avoid reheating filled cream puffs as the cream will soften and melt, losing that perfect texture contrast.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cream for whipping?

Heavy cream is recommended because its fat content is necessary to achieve stiff peaks and a stable whipped texture. Low-fat cream won’t whip properly and might result in a runny filling.

Why did my cream puffs collapse after baking?

This usually happens if the oven door is opened too early, causing a sudden drop in temperature and steam escape. Also, undercooking can make shells too soft, causing them to deflate as they cool.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, the glaze can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for a day. Stir gently before drizzling to smooth out any thickening that may occur.

Is there a way to make these dairy-free?

For dairy-free versions, try using plant-based alternatives like coconut cream for whipping and vegan butter for the shells, but results may vary slightly in texture and taste.

How long can I keep the baked shells before filling?

Baked cream puff shells can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days before filling to keep them crisp and fresh.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the way these Cream Puffs with Vanilla Whipped Cream and Sweet Glaze Recipe come together—simple ingredients transforming into an elegant treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s your first time or a beloved classic in your kitchen repertoire, I hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe as much as I do. Give it a go, and prepare to delight yourself and your loved ones with every heavenly bite!

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