Delightful Cream Puff Cake is the perfect treat for anyone who loves the combination of crispy, flaky layers and creamy, smooth filling. This cake is inspired by the classic cream puff pastry but elevated into a cake form, giving you a delightful balance of textures and flavors. The light, airy layers melt in your mouth, while the rich custard filling provides a luscious contrast. Ideal for special occasions or a decadent dessert, this cake will surely impress anyone who tries it.
Ingredients
For the Puff Pastry:
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
For the Custard Filling:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For the Topping:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, combine water and butter over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the butter melts and the water comes to a boil.
- Add the flour and salt all at once, stirring quickly to form a dough. Continue to stir for 2-3 minutes, until the dough pulls away from the sides of the pan and forms a ball.
- Remove the pan from the heat and allow the dough to cool for 5 minutes.
- Beat the eggs, one at a time, into the dough using a hand mixer or stand mixer, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. The dough will become smooth and glossy.
- Transfer the dough to a piping bag and pipe it onto the prepared baking sheet in two even circles, about 8 inches in diameter.
- Bake the dough for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up. Once baked, let it cool completely on a wire rack.
- For the custard filling, combine the milk, sugar, egg yolks, cornstarch, and salt in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk constantly until the mixture begins to thicken and comes to a gentle boil.
- Remove the custard from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter until smooth. Allow the custard to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- For the whipped cream topping, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a chilled bowl until stiff peaks form.
- Once the puff pastry layers have cooled, carefully slice each layer in half horizontally to create two thinner layers.
- Spread a generous layer of the custard filling on one of the puff pastry layers, then place the other layer on top.
- Spread a layer of whipped cream on top of the assembled cake.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for a few hours to let the flavors meld together.
This Delightful Cream Puff Cake is an unforgettable dessert that’s perfect for any celebration or a special treat. Its layers of flaky pastry, creamy custard, and whipped cream make it a luxurious indulgence that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Enjoy the decadent texture and flavors in every bite, and get ready for compliments!