Best Mom’s Famous Cream Puffs
Description
Mom’s Famous Cream Puffs are light, airy pastry shells filled with smooth and creamy vanilla filling. The outside bakes to a beautiful golden color with a slightly crisp texture, while the inside stays soft and hollow — perfect for piping in sweet cream. This classic homemade dessert is elegant, delicious, and always a favorite for family gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Pastry (Choux Dough)
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1 cup water
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½ cup unsalted butter
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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4 large eggs
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1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
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¼ teaspoon salt
Cream Filling
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2 cups milk
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½ cup sugar
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2 tablespoons cornstarch
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2 egg yolks
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 tablespoon butter
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1 cup heavy whipping cream (whipped, optional for extra light texture)
Optional Topping
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Powdered sugar
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Melted chocolate drizzle
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pastry Dough
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Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
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In a saucepan, combine water, butter, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil.
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Add flour all at once and stir quickly until the mixture forms a smooth dough that pulls away from the pan.
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Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
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Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the dough is smooth and glossy.
2. Bake the Cream Puff Shells
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Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
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Pipe or spoon small dough mounds onto the tray, leaving space between them.
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Bake for 20–25 minutes until puffed and golden brown.
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Do not open the oven during baking.
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Remove and let cool completely.
3. Make the Cream Filling
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In a saucepan, whisk milk, sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks.
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Cook over medium heat while stirring constantly until thickened.
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Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and butter.
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Let cool completely, then fold in whipped cream for a lighter texture (optional).
4. Assemble
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