Strawberry Cream Puffs
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Create a sweet sensation this holiday season with these delightful Strawberry Cream Puffs. Light and airy choux pastry filled with luscious whipped cream and fresh strawberries make for an irresistible treat. Perfect for Christmas gatherings or as a charming dessert to impress friends and family, these cream puffs will be the highlight of your festive cookie spread.
These Strawberry Cream Puffs are not just a treat; they are a celebration of flavors and textures. Each bite offers a delightful combination of crisp choux pastry, sweet strawberries, and fluffy whipped cream.
A Classic Holiday Treat
During the holiday season, there’s something truly magical about gathering around a table filled with delectable desserts. Strawberry Cream Puffs stand out among the plethora of sweets with their elegant presentation and delightful taste. This classic French pastry may look intricate, but it’s surprisingly simple to prepare at home. The combination of light choux pastry, rich whipped cream, and juicy strawberries offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that guests won’t be able to resist.
Whether served at a festive dinner or as a sweet surprise for family, these cream puffs are versatile enough to fit any occasion. Their charming size makes them an ideal addition to a dessert platter, inviting everyone to take a bite and savor the sweetness. The freshness of strawberries not only enhances the flavor but also brings a beautiful pop of color, making your dessert table Instagram-worthy.
Perfect Pairs for Your Cream Puffs
To elevate your Strawberry Cream Puffs even further, consider pairing them with complementary flavors. A drizzle of chocolate ganache or a sprinkle of crushed pistachios can add an extra layer of richness and texture. Alternatively, serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream can create a delightful contrast and make for a heartier dessert experience.
For a festive twist, think about adding a hint of peppermint extract to your whipped cream or incorporating seasonal spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. These subtle enhancements can transform your cream puffs into a whimsical holiday treat that will leave everyone craving more.
Tips for Success
When making choux pastry, achieving the right consistency is crucial to the success of your cream puffs. Be sure to measure your ingredients accurately and follow the steps carefully. The dough should be smooth and hold its shape when piped. If you’re unsure, test a small batch first. If they don’t puff correctly, you can adjust your technique for the next attempt.
Another essential tip is to allow the choux puffs to cool completely before filling them. If they are still warm, the filling may melt and create a mess. Once filled, these treats are best enjoyed fresh on the same day. However, you can prepare the choux pastry ahead of time and store it in an airtight container until you’re ready to fill and serve.
Ingredients
Choux Pastry
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
Filling
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
Make sure to use fresh strawberries for the best flavor.
Instructions
Prepare the Choux Pastry
In a medium saucepan, combine water and butter. Bring to a boil. Once boiling, add flour and salt, stirring until the mixture forms a ball. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Add Eggs
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until smooth and glossy. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag.
Pipe the Puffs
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pipe small mounds onto the sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and puffed. Allow to cool.
Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in sliced strawberries.
Fill the Puffs
Once the choux puffs are cool, cut a small slit in the side and fill with the cream-strawberry mixture.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for a short time before serving.
Storage and Freshness
Strawberry Cream Puffs are best enjoyed fresh on the day they are made, especially since the whipped cream filling can lose its texture over time. However, if you need to store them, keep the cream separate from the choux pastry. The choux puffs can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two days, while the whipped cream and strawberries should be refrigerated and used within 24 hours for optimal freshness.
If you plan to make them ahead of time, consider preparing the choux pastry and filling them just before serving. This method ensures that they retain their airy texture and aren't overly soggy from the filling.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your Strawberry Cream Puffs, presentation is key. Consider arranging them on a beautiful serving platter, garnished with whole strawberries and a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. A sprig of mint can also add a pop of color and freshness to the display.
For an added layer of fun, you can create a DIY topping station. Provide various toppings like melted chocolate, crushed cookies, or flavored whipped cream, allowing guests to customize their own cream puff creations, making the experience even more interactive and enjoyable.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these cream puffs in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the choux pastry ahead of time and fill them just before serving.
Strawberry Cream Puffs
Create a sweet sensation this holiday season with these delightful Strawberry Cream Puffs. Light and airy choux pastry filled with luscious whipped cream and fresh strawberries make for an irresistible treat. Perfect for Christmas gatherings or as a charming dessert to impress friends and family, these cream puffs will be the highlight of your festive cookie spread.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 servings
What You'll Need
Choux Pastry
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
Filling
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
How-To Steps
In a medium saucepan, combine water and butter. Bring to a boil. Once boiling, add flour and salt, stirring until the mixture forms a ball. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until smooth and glossy. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pipe small mounds onto the sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and puffed. Allow to cool.
In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in sliced strawberries.
Once the choux puffs are cool, cut a small slit in the side and fill with the cream-strawberry mixture.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 3g