Strawberry Cream Puffs Recipe

Get ready to indulge in a delightful treat with this Strawberry Cream Puffs Recipe that combines light, airy choux pastry with luscious whipped cream and fresh, juicy strawberries. This dessert is a crowd-pleaser that balances sweet and fresh flavors perfectly, making it an irresistible choice for celebrations or an elegant afternoon snack. Making these cream puffs is as joyful as eating them, and once you try this Strawberry Cream Puffs Recipe, you’ll want to add it to your favorite dessert lineup forever.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role in creating the perfect texture and flavor. From the crisp pastry shell to the smooth, sweet filling, these simple ingredients come together effortlessly for an impressive result.

• Water: Brings moisture to the dough, helping it rise and create hollow centers.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps achieve that golden crust on the puffs.
• All-purpose flour: The foundation of the choux pastry, providing structure and softness.
• Salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.
• Large eggs: Give the dough its elasticity and help it puff up beautifully.
• Heavy cream: Whipped to perfection for a light, fluffy filling.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream smoothly without graininess.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the cream filling.
• Fresh strawberries: Provide juicy bursts of natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• Strawberry jam (optional): Amplifies the strawberry flavor for an extra fruity punch.
• Powdered sugar (for dusting): Adds an elegant touch and a hint of extra sweetness.
• Fresh mint leaves (optional): Bring a lovely, fresh aroma and beautiful garnish.

How to Make Strawberry Cream Puffs Recipe

Step 1: Make the choux pastry

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a saucepan, bring water and butter to a boil, allowing the butter to melt fully. Add flour and salt all at once, then stir vigorously until the dough forms a smooth ball that pulls away from the sides. This step ensures your pastry will have that iconic hollow and crispy texture.

Step 2: Add the eggs

Let the dough cool slightly for about 5 minutes to avoid cooking the eggs prematurely. Then, incorporate the eggs one by one into the dough using a mixer. The dough will transform into a shiny, thick batter that holds its shape well, which is exactly what you need for perfect puffs.

Step 3: Shape the cream puffs

Use a spoon or piping bag to drop small mounds of dough onto the baking sheet, spaced generously to allow room for puffing up. Smooth the tops gently with a wet finger to get uniformly round puffs. This step ensures the puffs bake evenly and have a professional appearance.

Step 4: Bake the puffs

Bake your puffs for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown and beautifully risen. Patience here guarantees light, airy shells. Once baked, cool them thoroughly on a wire rack so the interiors stay hollow and ready for filling.

Step 5: Make the whipped cream filling

Whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to stiff peaks, creating a fluffy, sweet filling. Be cautious not to overbeat, as the cream could become grainy. This luscious filling is the heart of your Strawberry Cream Puffs Recipe.

Step 6: Prepare the strawberries

While the puffs cool, dice fresh strawberries and optionally mix them with a spoonful of strawberry jam. This simple addition intensifies the fruity sweetness and delivers bursts of color and freshness with every bite.

Step 7: Assemble the cream puffs

Slice each cooled puff in half horizontally, then spoon or pipe the whipped cream generously over the bottom halves. Add diced strawberries on top of the cream, layering flavors and textures that become the signature of this recipe.

Step 8: Top and garnish

Place the puff tops back on gently, dust them with powdered sugar, and sprinkle fresh mint leaves if you like. This finishing touch not only adds charm but also enhances fragrance, making your Strawberry Cream Puffs Recipe visually stunning and irresistible.

How to Serve Strawberry Cream Puffs Recipe

Garnishes

Powdered sugar and fresh mint leaves are classic for a reason – they add contrast and a fresh aroma that elevate the cream puffs. Consider also adding thin strawberry slices around the plate for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair these cream puffs with a refreshing berry salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement their creamy texture. A light, fruity beverage like sparkling lemonade or iced tea also balances sweetness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Strawberry Cream Puffs Recipe in individual glass cups layered with extra whipped cream and strawberries, turning them into parfaits. Or arrange them on a beautiful cake stand for an eye-catching dessert centerpiece at parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Because cream puffs are best enjoyed fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The pastry might soften slightly but will still retain delicious flavor.

Freezing

Freeze the baked, unfilled puffs on a tray first, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to a month. When ready, thaw completely and fill with freshly whipped cream and strawberries for best results.

Reheating

To refresh stored puffs, warm them briefly in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for 5 minutes to regain a bit of crispness before filling. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the pastry chewy instead of crisp.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for this Strawberry Cream Puffs Recipe?

While fresh strawberries are preferred for their texture and brightness, you can use frozen if thawed and drained well to avoid too much moisture inside the puffs.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking, you can enjoy gluten-free cream puffs without compromising too much on texture.

How long do these cream puffs last once assembled?

Once filled, it’s best to consume them within a few hours as the moisture from the cream and strawberries can soften the pastry quickly.

Can I prepare the choux pastry in advance?

You can make the dough and bake the shells a day ahead, keeping them in an airtight container at room temperature. Fill with cream and strawberries just before serving for optimal freshness.

What can I use instead of strawberry jam?

If you want a gluten-free, less sweet option or just want to try something new, a drizzle of honey or a berry coulis works wonderfully as a flavor enhancer in the filling.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the joy of making and eating Strawberry Cream Puffs Recipe – from their delicate, crisp shells to the luscious cream and juicy strawberries nestled inside. I hope this detailed guide inspires you to whip up these charming treats yourself and share the love with friends and family. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become one of your most beloved desserts. Happy baking and even happier tasting!

Strawberry Cream Puffs Recipe

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3.9 from 32 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delight in these airy and golden Strawberry Cream Puffs featuring delicate choux pastry filled with luscious vanilla whipped cream and fresh diced strawberries, perfect for an elegant dessert or special occasion treat.

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Ingredients

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Choux Pastry

• 1 cup water
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ tsp salt
• 4 large eggs

Filling

• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, diced
• 1–2 tbsp strawberry jam (optional, for extra flavor)

Garnish

• Powdered sugar (for dusting)
• Fresh mint leaves (optional)

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Instructions

1. Make the choux pastry: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium saucepan, combine water and butter, bringing them to a boil over medium heat until the butter is fully melted. Add flour and salt all at once, stirring vigorously until the mixture turns into a smooth dough that pulls away from the pan sides, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool for 5 minutes.
2. Add the eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the dough using a hand or stand mixer, making sure each egg is fully blended before adding the next. The dough will become smooth, shiny, and thick.
3. Shape the cream puffs: Using a spoon or piping bag, place small mounds of dough (1.5 to 2 inches in diameter) onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart. Wet your finger and gently smooth the tops for uniformity.
4. Bake the puffs: Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cream puffs are golden brown and puffed. Remove from oven and cool completely on a wire rack.
5. Make the whipped cream filling: In a large bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form, taking care not to overbeat to avoid turning the cream into butter.
6. Prepare the strawberries: Dice fresh strawberries and place in a bowl. Optionally, mix with strawberry jam for added sweetness and flavor.
7. Assemble the cream puffs: Once fully cooled, slice each puff in half carefully. Spoon or pipe a generous amount of whipped cream onto the bottom halves, then top with diced strawberries.
8. Top and garnish: Place the top halves of the puffs back on, dust generously with powdered sugar, and optionally garnish with fresh mint leaves for a fresh touch.
9. Serve: Enjoy the strawberry cream puffs immediately for the best texture and flavor experience.

Notes

• Ensure the choux dough cools slightly before adding eggs to prevent cooking them.
• Do not open the oven door while baking the puffs to maintain their structure.
• Whip the cream just until stiff peaks form to avoid overwhipping.
• Strawberry jam is optional but enhances sweetness; adjust based on preference.
• These cream puffs are best enjoyed the day they are made for optimal freshness.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French