Strawberry Cream Puffs Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that instantly brings a smile to everyone’s face, look no further than this delightful Strawberry Cream Puffs Recipe. Imagine light, airy puff pastry shells filled with luscious whipped cream and fresh, juicy strawberries, all dusted with a gentle snowfall of powdered sugar. The perfect balance of crispness and creaminess makes this treat an irresistible favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re serving up a fancy afternoon tea or just craving a sweet indulgence, these strawberry cream puffs will win hearts with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple but each plays an essential role in creating the perfect Strawberry Cream Puffs Recipe. From the buttery dough that puffs up like a cloud, to the luscious cream and vibrant strawberries that bring both flavor and color, every component shines.

• 1 cup water: The base liquid that helps create the perfect light and airy pastry texture.
• ½ cup unsalted butter: Adds rich flavor and tenderizes the dough for a golden crust.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The backbone of the dough, providing structure for puffing up beautifully.
• ¼ tsp salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the pastry.
• 4 large eggs: Key to creating that perfect airy, glossy dough that rises with a delicate crunch.
• 1 cup heavy cream: For whipping into smooth, fluffy whipped cream that fills the puffs.
• ¼ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream without weighing it down.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a warm, fragrant depth to the whipped cream.
• 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, diced: Bursts of natural sweet-tart flavor offering vibrant color and freshness.
• 1-2 tbsp strawberry jam (optional): For an extra hit of strawberry sweetness and intensity.
• Powdered sugar (for dusting): A pretty, sweet finish that makes each cream puff shine.
• Fresh mint leaves (optional): Adds a refreshing, aromatic touch as a garnish.

How to Make Strawberry Cream Puffs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Choux Pastry Dough

Start by preheating your oven and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure an easy release. Bring the water and butter to a boil so that the butter melts fully into the water. Once boiling, quickly stir in the flour and salt all at once. Stir vigorously until the dough forms a smooth ball that pulls away from the pan’s sides. This step sets the foundation for those airy puffs, so don’t rush – it takes about 1 to 2 minutes to reach the perfect consistency.

Step 2: Incorporate the Eggs

Once your dough cools slightly, it’s time to beat in the eggs one at a time. This slow addition ensures the dough stays smooth and glossy as it transforms into something thick and elastic. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer helps incorporate air and achieve that ideal sheen. By the end, the dough should be somewhat thick but still pipeable, ready to puff beautifully in the oven.

Step 3: Shape the Puffs

Next, either spoon or pipe small mounds of dough onto your parchment-lined sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. Aim for around 1.5 to 2 inch diameter spheres – perfect for a lovely handheld treat. Gently wetting your finger and smoothing the tops keeps the puffs looking neat and helps them bake evenly without cracking.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Puffy

Pop the tray in your oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes until the cream puffs have risen magnificently and turned a beautiful golden brown. The transformation is magical – those little mounds become crisp shells with hollow centers, perfect for filling. Cool them fully on a wire rack so the interior stays dry and ready for delicious filling.

Step 5: Whip the Cream Filling

While the puffs cool, beat together heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This luscious whipped cream will perfectly complement the crisp pastry and juicy strawberries, making each bite melt in your mouth.

Step 6: Prepare the Strawberry Filling

Dice your fresh strawberries into bite-sized pieces. For an extra sweet and intense strawberry flavor, stir in a tablespoon or two of strawberry jam – though using fresh strawberries alone keeps the dessert bright and natural-tasting. This step adds lovely texture and bursts of fruity freshness.

Step 7: Fill the Puffs

Carefully slice each cooled cream puff in half horizontally. Pipe or spoon a generous dollop of whipped cream onto the bottom halves, then nestle on the diced strawberries. Their bright color and juicy sweetness elevate this classic treat to something truly special.

Step 8: Assemble and Garnish

Place the top half of each puff back on and finish with a dusting of powdered sugar for that picture-perfect look. Optional fresh mint leaves add a pop of green and a refreshing aroma, making your strawberry cream puffs as beautiful as they are delicious.

Step 9: Serve Immediately

Serve your strawberry cream puffs fresh for the best texture – crisp pastry shells paired with chilled, fluffy cream and fresh strawberries create a combination that’s nothing short of heavenly.

How to Serve Strawberry Cream Puffs Recipe

Garnishes

Dusting powdered sugar over the puffs offers a delicate sweetness and a touch of elegance. Fresh mint leaves add color and a refreshing fragrance that beautifully complements the strawberries. You can even drizzle with a little melted chocolate or a strawberry reduction for an extra-special touch.

Side Dishes

Pair these cream puffs with a light green tea or even a fruity sparkling wine to balance the sweetness. Fresh fruit salads or simple sorbets can also act as refreshing accompaniments for a full dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging your cream puffs in a pyramid shape on a pretty cake stand to wow guests, or serve them individually on delicate plates with a small scoop of strawberry ice cream. For a charming picnic twist, pack them in a decorative box with parchment paper, ensuring they remain intact until enjoyed outdoors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Because of the creamy filling and freshness of the strawberries, strawberry cream puffs are best enjoyed the day they are made. However, if you have leftovers, keep them refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 24 hours to avoid soggy pastry.

Freezing

Freeze leftover plain puff shells (before filling) by sealing them tightly in a freezer bag for up to one month. When ready, thaw and fill with freshly whipped cream and strawberries for best results. Cream-filled puffs don’t freeze well as the texture of the whipped cream can change.

Reheating

Reheat leftover shells in a warm oven for a few minutes to refresh their crispness before filling. Avoid microwaving as it will soften the shells too much and make them soggy.

FAQs

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

Fresh strawberries work best because they maintain their texture and natural sweetness. If you use frozen strawberries, be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture that could make the pastry soggy.

Is it necessary to add strawberry jam to the filling?

The strawberry jam is optional and adds extra sweetness and depth of flavor. If you prefer a lighter, fresher taste, just stick with fresh diced strawberries – they’re delicious on their own!

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based whipping cream alternative, and use a vegan butter for the dough. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different, but it will still be delightful.

How do I know when the cream puffs are fully baked?

Look for puffed-up, golden brown shells that feel light and crispy to the touch. If they collapse or feel soft, they need a little more time. Baking them properly ensures a hollow interior perfect for filling.

What is the best way to pipe the dough?

Use a piping bag fitted with a large round tip for uniform shapes, or a zip-top bag with a corner cut off if you don’t have a piping bag. This helps keep the sizes consistent and creates a lovely smooth surface on your puffs.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so joyful about making and sharing this Strawberry Cream Puffs Recipe with loved ones. It combines crisp yet tender pastry, dreamy whipped cream, and sweet, fresh strawberries – a trifecta of pure delight. I can’t recommend enough giving this recipe a try, whether it’s your first time or you’re a puff pastry pro. Each bite is a little celebration on its own, and I’m sure it will soon become a cherished go-to dessert in your kitchen too.

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