Moms Famous Cream Puffs

Ouadie Rhabbouron

These cream puffs are a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The shells are crisp and golden on the outside, with a hollow center ready to be filled with rich, creamy custard. Each bite delivers a combination of crunch and smoothness that is simply irresistible.

The secret to success lies in two things:

  1. Steam Power: The choux pastry rises from steam, not yeast or baking powder, giving the puffs their signature lightness.

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  2. Pastry Cream Filling: A homemade custard filling makes these puffs luxurious and deeply flavorful.

From their French origins in the 16th century to their place on your modern dessert table, Moms Famous Cream Puffs have stood the test of time.

Mom’s Famous Cream Puffs – Perfect Homemade Dessert

Ingredients for Moms Famous Cream Puffs

For the Pastry Shells (Choux Pastry):

  • 1 cup water

  • ½ cup unsalted butter

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

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  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • 4 large eggs

For the Pastry Cream Filling:

  • 2 cups whole milk

  • ½ cup granulated sugar (divided)

  • ¼ cup cornstarch

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  • Pinch of salt

  • 4 large egg yolks

  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Tip: You can substitute whipped cream for the custard if you prefer a lighter filling, but the classic pastry cream gives Moms Famous Cream Puffs their traditional flavor.

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How to Make Moms Famous Cream Puffs Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the Choux Pastry

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine water, butter, and salt. Bring to a rolling boil over medium heat.

  2. Remove from heat and quickly stir in flour, mixing until the dough pulls away from the sides of the pan.

  3. Return to low heat and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to remove excess moisture.

  4. Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and let cool slightly.

  5. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition until smooth and glossy.

Step 2: Pipe and Bake

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  3. Using a piping bag or spoon, pipe small mounds of dough about 1½ inches wide.

  4. Smooth any peaks with a damp fingertip.

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  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes without opening the oven door.

  6. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let puffs rest inside for 10 minutes to dry.

Step 3: Make the Pastry Cream

  1. Heat milk and half the sugar in a saucepan until just simmering.

  2. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks, cornstarch, salt, and the remaining sugar until pale and thick.

  3. Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.

  4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking until thickened.

  5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and butter.

  6. Cover with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface and chill for at least 2 hours.

Step 4: Assemble the Puffs

  1. Once shells are completely cool, slice them in half horizontally.

  2. Pipe or spoon chilled pastry cream into the bottom halves.

  3. Replace the tops and dust lightly with powdered sugar.

  4. Serve immediately for the freshest texture.

Tips for Perfect Moms Famous Cream Puffs

  • Use Room Temperature Eggs: They blend better and create a smoother dough.

  • Don’t Open the Oven: Sudden temperature changes can cause the puffs to collapse.

  • Cool Before Filling: Warm pastry will melt the cream.

  • For Extra Crispiness: Poke a small hole in each puff after baking to release steam, then return to the oven for 2-3 minutes.

  • Add Whipped Cream: Fold whipped cream into the custard for a lighter filling.

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