If you’re a fan of cream puffs, this Cream Puff Cake takes all the best parts of the classic treat and transforms them into an easy-to-make dessert masterpiece. Featuring a light and airy pastry base, creamy vanilla pudding, and a luscious whipped topping, this cake is as indulgent as it is simple to prepare. Topped with a drizzle of chocolate syrup, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion, from family dinners to festive celebrations.
PrintCream Puff Cake
🎂✨ Indulge in the irresistible magic of a Cream Puff Cake! 🥳 Layers of light choux pastry, creamy filling, and a decadent chocolate topping make this dessert a dreamy delight. 😍 Perfect for celebrations or a sweet escape at home! 💕🍫
#CreamPuffCake #DessertDreams #SweetLayers #CreamyGoodness #PastryPerfection #DessertLovers #DecadentDelights #BakingBliss #ChocolateLove #PerfectTreat 🎂🍫✨
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
For the Pastry Base:
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
For the Cream Filling:
- 2 (3.9 oz) boxes instant vanilla pudding mix
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 3 1/2 cups milk
For the Topping:
- 8 ounces whipped topping (defrosted)
- 1/4 cup chocolate syrup
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pastry Base
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Cook the Dough:
- In a saucepan, boil the water, butter, and salt. Once boiling, remove from heat.
- Pour the hot mixture into a mixing bowl. Add the flour and beat by hand or with an electric mixer until it forms a smooth ball of dough.
- Cool and Add Eggs:
- Let the dough cool for about 10 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. The dough should become thick and smooth with a satin-like sheen.
- Bake the Pastry:
- Spread the dough evenly in the greased pan.
- Bake for 15 minutes at 450°F, then prick the center with a knife about 15 times to release air.
- Lower the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 20 minutes.
- Cool the pastry completely, about 30–45 minutes, before adding the cream filling.
2. Make the Cream Filling
- Prepare the Pudding:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and milk until smooth. Set aside.
- Cream the Cheese:
- Beat the softened cream cheese until fluffy. Slowly add the prepared pudding mixture, mixing at a low speed at first, then increasing to high until fully combined and smooth.
3. Assemble the Cake
- Pour the cream filling over the cooled pastry base, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.
- Gently spread the whipped topping over the pudding layer.
4. Add the Chocolate Drizzle
- Using a spoon or squeeze bottle, drizzle chocolate syrup over the whipped topping in decorative swirls or lines.
5. Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2–3 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set.
- Slice into squares and serve chilled for the best experience.
Notes
Pastry Base:
- Ensure the dough cools slightly before adding eggs to prevent scrambling.
- Pricking the puffed pastry allows steam to escape, ensuring an even and sturdy base.
Filling and Topping:
- Use softened cream cheese to avoid lumps in the filling.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the whipped topping.
Serving:
- This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, so refrigerate for a few hours or overnight for optimal results.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
For the Pastry Base:
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
For the Cream Filling:
- 2 (3.9 oz) boxes instant vanilla pudding mix
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 3 1/2 cups milk
For the Topping:
- 8 ounces whipped topping (defrosted)
- 1/4 cup chocolate syrup
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pastry Base
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Cook the Dough:
- In a saucepan, boil the water, butter, and salt. Once boiling, remove from heat.
- Pour the hot mixture into a mixing bowl. Add the flour and beat by hand or with an electric mixer until it forms a smooth ball of dough.
- Cool and Add Eggs:
- Let the dough cool for about 10 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. The dough should become thick and smooth with a satin-like sheen.
- Bake the Pastry:
- Spread the dough evenly in the greased pan.
- Bake for 15 minutes at 450°F, then prick the center with a knife about 15 times to release air.
- Lower the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 20 minutes.
- Cool the pastry completely, about 30–45 minutes, before adding the cream filling.
2. Make the Cream Filling
- Prepare the Pudding:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and milk until smooth. Set aside.
- Cream the Cheese:
- Beat the softened cream cheese until fluffy. Slowly add the prepared pudding mixture, mixing at a low speed at first, then increasing to high until fully combined and smooth.
3. Assemble the Cake
- Pour the cream filling over the cooled pastry base, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.
- Gently spread the whipped topping over the pudding layer.
4. Add the Chocolate Drizzle
- Using a spoon or squeeze bottle, drizzle chocolate syrup over the whipped topping in decorative swirls or lines.
5. Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2–3 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set.
- Slice into squares and serve chilled for the best experience.
Flavors, Textures, and Aromas
This Cream Puff Cake offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The base is light, slightly crisp, and buttery, reminiscent of classic choux pastry. The cream filling is rich and velvety, balancing sweetness with a hint of tanginess from the cream cheese. The whipped topping adds a cloud-like finish, while the chocolate syrup provides a touch of indulgent richness.
As you prepare this cake, the aroma of baking pastry will fill your kitchen, followed by the creamy, vanilla-scented notes of the filling.
Tips for Success
Pastry Base:
- Ensure the dough cools slightly before adding eggs to prevent scrambling.
- Pricking the puffed pastry allows steam to escape, ensuring an even and sturdy base.
Filling and Topping:
- Use softened cream cheese to avoid lumps in the filling.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the whipped topping.
Serving:
- This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, so refrigerate for a few hours or overnight for optimal results.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Flavor Twists:
- Swap vanilla pudding for chocolate or butterscotch for a unique flavor profile.
- Add a layer of sliced bananas or strawberries between the filling and whipped topping for a fruity touch.
Decorative Ideas:
- Garnish with crushed nuts, chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for added texture and elegance.
- Use a piping bag to create decorative whipped topping patterns before drizzling chocolate syrup.
Serving Pairings:
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful dessert pairing.
- Serve alongside fresh berries for a refreshing contrast to the creamy layers.
With its irresistible combination of flavors, textures, and visual appeal, this Cream Puff Cake is sure to become a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for special occasions or just a sweet treat to brighten your day, it’s as simple to make as it is delightful to eat.
#CreamPuffCake #DessertLovers #EasyDesserts 🍰✨