Easy Strawberry Cream Puffs Recipe

There is nothing quite like indulging in a batch of homemade cream puffs filled with luscious sweet cream and fresh strawberries. This Easy Strawberry Cream Puffs Recipe combines light, airy choux pastry with a silky cream cheese and whipped cream filling dotted with juicy strawberries, creating a dessert that feels both elegant and comforting. Whether you’re planning a special occasion or simply craving a delightful treat to share, these cream puffs deliver a perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and subtly sweet flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is your first step to success, and with this recipe, simplicity is key. Each component is essential in crafting that signature lightness and rich flavor. The butter and flour work together to create a delicate pâte à choux, while cream cheese, heavy cream, and strawberries bring freshness and indulgence to the filling.

• 1 cup water: The liquid base that helps steam the pastry to rise and become hollow inside.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and aids in flakiness without overpowering the delicate flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cream puff shells.
• 4 large eggs: These are key to creating the airy, puffed texture of the shells.
• 8 oz cream cheese (or mascarpone, softened): Gives the filling a smooth, tangy creaminess.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the filling’s flavor.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling without graininess.
• 2 cups heavy cream (well chilled): Whipped to fluffy perfection for the light creaminess.
• 1 cup finely diced strawberries: Gives bursts of fresh sweetness inside the filling.
• 1 cup sliced strawberries (for garnish; optional): Adds a fresh and pretty finishing touch.
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar (for dusting): A delicate dusting that makes your cream puffs look irresistible.

How to Make Easy Strawberry Cream Puffs Recipe

Step 1: Making the Pâte à Choux

Start by combining butter, salt, and water in a saucepan over medium-high heat until the butter melts and the mixture boils. Once boiling, dump in the flour all at once and stir vigorously until the mixture pulls away from the sides and forms a smooth dough ball. This process ensures the dough has the right consistency to puff up beautifully.

Step 2: Cooling and Adding Eggs

Transfer the hot dough to a large bowl and let it cool until just warm to the touch—about 10 to 15 minutes. This rests the flour and prevents the eggs from cooking when added. Then, add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition until the dough is smooth and shiny. The eggs are what create the light and airy shells.

Step 3: Preparing the Baking Sheet and Piping the Dough

Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Using a pastry bag, pipe dollops of dough onto the sheet, spacing them well apart so they don’t merge as they bake. You can make them small bite-sized or larger, depending on your preference.

Step 4: Baking the Profiteroles

Bake the shells in the hot oven for 10 minutes, then lower the heat to 350°F and continue baking for 30 to 35 more minutes. This steady baking allows the shells to puff up and turn a gorgeous golden brown without collapsing. Resist opening the oven door during baking—that cool air can make them fall flat!

Step 5: Making the Cream Filling

While the shells cool completely, beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Gradually whisk in chilled heavy cream until the mixture becomes thick and fluffy. Finally, fold in the finely diced strawberries for a burst of fresh flavor in every bite.

Step 6: Assembling the Easy Strawberry Cream Puffs Recipe

Cut each cooled puff in half with a serrated knife. Spoon or pipe a generous amount of the strawberry cream into the bottom half of each shell and then sandwich with the top half. If you want to get fancy, add sliced strawberries on top as an enticing garnish before dusting everything with powdered sugar.

How to Serve Easy Strawberry Cream Puffs Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar is classic and elegant, but adding sliced fresh strawberries or even a sprig of mint makes these cream puffs look like they belong in a patisserie window. The garnishes should complement, not overshadow, the delicate flavors inside.

Side Dishes

These cream puffs shine on their own but pairing them with a fresh fruit salad or a cup of lightly brewed tea enhances the experience. Light, fruity sides amplify the strawberry notes and keep the dessert feeling fresh and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging your strawberry cream puffs on a tiered cake stand for a stunning display at brunch or a party. For a whimsical twist, add mini chocolate drizzles or sprinkle edible flower petals around the platter. Presentation is a joy when this recipe looks as heavenly as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any cream puffs left after your gathering (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The delicate pastry may soften slightly, but the flavors will remain delightful.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the baked cream puff shells (without filling) in a single layer in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. When ready to use, thaw completely then fill just before serving. Sadly, freezing filled cream puffs is not recommended as the whipped cream and strawberries don’t freeze well.

Reheating

If your shells have softened but you want to revive their crispness, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5 to 7 minutes before filling. Avoid reheating after the cream has been added as it will affect texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use mascarpone instead of cream cheese?

Absolutely! Mascarpone offers a slightly richer and milder flavor that works perfectly in this recipe, giving the filling a luscious texture while maintaining the traditional taste.

What can I substitute for fresh strawberries?

While strawberries are the star of this recipe, other fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries can be used. Just be sure to finely dice them to mix nicely into the filling.

Can I make the cream puff shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the shells a day or two ahead and store them in an airtight container. Fill them just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.

How do I prevent the cream from becoming too soft to pipe?

If your whipped cream filling softens, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 to 45 minutes, then whisk it again briefly to bring back firmness perfect for piping.

Is it okay to freeze the filled cream puffs?

It’s best not to freeze filled cream puffs since the whipped cream and fresh strawberries can become watery and lose texture once thawed. Freeze only the shells for best results.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say that this Easy Strawberry Cream Puffs Recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser and a wonderful way to elevate your dessert game with minimal fuss. It’s an elegant treat that feels special but is surprisingly simple to prepare. Give it a try—you’ll love every bite of these airy, creamy, and strawberry-studded delights that bring a little sweetness to any occasion.

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