Description
Strawberry Cream Puffs are delicate, airy pastries filled with luscious whipped cream mixed with fresh strawberries. These classic French desserts feature a crisp choux pastry shell filled with a sweet and creamy strawberry filling, perfect for any occasion or a special treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Choux Pastry
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup water
- 4 large fresh eggs
Filling
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dough: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a medium saucepan, combine water and butter over medium heat and bring to a boil, ensuring the butter is fully melted.
- Make the Choux Pastry Dough: Stir in the all-purpose flour all at once, stirring vigorously until a dough ball forms that pulls away from the sides of the pan. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly to avoid cooking the eggs in the next step.
- Incorporate Eggs: Add eggs one at a time to the dough, mixing thoroughly after each addition until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Form the Puffs: Using a piping bag or spoon, portion the choux dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart to allow for expansion.
- Bake the Pastry Shells: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the puffs are golden brown and firm. Avoid opening the oven door during baking to prevent collapse.
- Prepare the Filling: While the puffs bake and cool, whip the heavy cream together with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the sliced fresh strawberries, combining evenly.
- Assemble and Serve: Once the choux pastry puffs have cooled completely, slice or pierce them to fill generously with the strawberry cream mixture. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of crisp pastry and creamy filling.
Notes
- Ensure the dough cools slightly before adding eggs to prevent scrambling.
- Do not open the oven door during baking to keep the puffs from deflating.
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor and texture in the filling.
- For a decorative touch, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- Store cream-filled puffs in the refrigerator and consume within 1 day for optimal freshness.
