A Craquelin Cream Puff Cake is a show-stopping dessert that combines the light and airy texture of cream puffs with the irresistible crunch of craquelin topping. This French-inspired cake is a perfect centerpiece for special occasions, blending buttery pastry, smooth cream filling, and a crisp cookie-like crust. The balance of textures and flavors makes it an unforgettable treat that looks as impressive as it tastes.
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened, for craquelin)
- 2/3 cup brown sugar (for craquelin)
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (for craquelin)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a saucepan, bring water, butter, and salt to a boil. Reduce heat, add flour, and stir until dough forms and pulls away from the pan. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before adding eggs one at a time until smooth.
- For the craquelin, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and flour until a dough forms. Roll it thin and cut into discs. Place each disc on top of piped choux pastry mounds on the baking sheet. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and puffed. Allow to cool completely.
- Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Slice cooled cream puffs in half and fill generously with whipped cream. Stack the filled puffs in a cake-like arrangement to form the Craquelin Cream Puff Cake. Serve immediately or chill slightly before serving.
Servings
This recipe serves approximately 8–10 people.
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 280
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 5g
Sugar: 12g
Fiber: 1g
Notes
The craquelin topping adds a sweet crunch and helps maintain the puff’s shape. It can be made ahead of time and refrigerated until needed. Using chilled whipped cream filling ensures the cake holds its form longer.
Tips
Use a piping bag for even-sized cream puffs. Allow the pastry shells to cool completely before filling to avoid melting the cream. If you want extra flavor, add citrus zest or cocoa powder to the whipped cream. To make it more festive, drizzle chocolate sauce or caramel over the finished cake.
Health Benefits
While Craquelin Cream Puff Cake is an indulgent dessert, it offers small benefits. Eggs provide protein and essential vitamins such as B12 and riboflavin. Cream contains calcium for bone health, while butter in moderation provides fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, and E. Consuming this dessert occasionally can fit into a balanced lifestyle when paired with a healthy diet.
Q & A
Q: Can I make the cream puffs ahead of time?
A: Yes, the shells can be baked a day ahead and stored in an airtight container. Fill them just before serving.
Q: Can I freeze cream puff shells?
A: Yes, unfilled shells freeze well for up to 2 months. Re-crisp them in the oven before using.
Q: What can I use instead of whipped cream?
A: Pastry cream, custard, or even ice cream can be used as alternative fillings.
Q: How do I keep the cake stable?
A: Use a little cream as “glue” between stacked puffs and chill briefly before serving.
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