Cream Puff Cake Recipe

Cream Puff Cake Recipe

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A decadent dessert that combines the airy lightness of cream puffs with the richness of a classic cake. This unique twist on a traditional treat is perfect for any special occasion. The contrast of the crisp, golden pastry shells filled with luscious pastry cream and topped with a smooth layer of whipped cream and fresh berries is simply irresistible.

Ingredients:

For the Pastry:

  • 1 cup water
  • 1 stick (4 ounces) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 large eggs, beaten

For the Pastry Cream:

  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For the Whipped Cream:

  • 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Additional:

  • Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
  • Chocolate shavings (optional)

Instructions:

Make the Pastry:

  1. Boil the Water and Butter: In a medium saucepan, bring the water, butter, and salt to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the Flour: Quickly stir in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
  3. Cool the Dough: Transfer the dough to a large bowl and let it cool slightly.
  4. Add the Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The dough should be smooth and glossy.
  5. Pipe the Pastry: Pipe the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  6. Bake the Pastry: Bake in a preheated 425°F (220°C) oven for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
  7. Cool the Pastry: Let the pastries cool completely on a wire rack.

Make the Pastry Cream:

  1. Scald the Milk: In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
  2. Whisk the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks until smooth.
  3. Temper the Eggs: Temper the egg mixture by slowly whisking in a small amount of the hot milk.
  4. Combine the Mixtures: Pour the tempered egg mixture into the saucepan with the remaining hot milk.
  5. Cook the Pastry Cream: Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
  6. Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract and butter.
  7. Chill the Pastry Cream: Transfer the pastry cream to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until chilled.

Assemble the Cake:

  1. Fill the Pastry: Cut a small hole in the bottom of each pastry and pipe in the chilled pastry cream.
  2. Whip the Cream: In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
  3. Assemble the Cake: Arrange the filled pastries on a serving platter. Top with a layer of whipped cream and decorate with fresh berries and chocolate shavings, if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Cream Puff Cake!

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