Strawberry Cream Puffs Recipe – Light, Fluffy, and Filled with Fresh Flavor

If you’re looking for a light yet indulgent dessert, these Strawberry Cream Puffs are the perfect choice. Made with classic French choux pastry and filled with vanilla whipped cream and fresh strawberries, they strike a beautiful balance between airy texture and fruity sweetness.

Why You’ll Love These Strawberry Cream Puffs

• Bakery-style results at home
• Simple, accessible ingredients
• Perfect for spring, summer, or special occasions
• Make-ahead friendly for entertaining

What Are Cream Puffs?

Cream puffs are a type of French pastry made from pâte à choux (choux dough), which puffs up in the oven to create a hollow center. They are traditionally filled with whipped cream or custard. In this recipe, we add a fresh twist by incorporating sliced strawberries into the filling for a fruity upgrade.

Ingredients

For the Choux Pastry

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs, room temperature

For the Filling

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced

How to Make Strawberry Cream Puffs

Step 1: Make the Choux Pastry

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a saucepan, bring butter and water to a boil. Add the flour and stir vigorously until a smooth ball forms. Let the dough cool for 5 minutes, then beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated and glossy.

Step 2: Bake the Puffs

Using a piping bag or spoon, portion the dough into small mounds on the baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes or until puffed and golden. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack before filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, whip the cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in the sliced strawberries.

Step 4: Assemble

Slice each cream puff in half horizontally. Fill with the whipped cream and strawberry mixture. Replace the tops and serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.

Storage Tips

• Unfilled shells: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for 1 month.
• Filled puffs: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Recipe Notes and Variations

• Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream for a citrus twist.
• Top filled puffs with a dusting of powdered sugar or drizzle of chocolate ganache.
• Try substituting strawberries with raspberries or blueberries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make cream puffs ahead of time?

Yes. You can bake the shells a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Fill them shortly before serving to keep them crisp.

Why did my cream puffs collapse?

This usually happens if they’re underbaked. Ensure they are fully golden and sound hollow when tapped before removing them from the oven.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Strawberry Cream Puffs make an elegant treat for:

• Brunch gatherings
• Valentine’s Day or anniversaries
• Mother’s Day or bridal showers
• Light summer desserts

Nutrition Information

Per cream puff (approximate): 310 calories, 24g fat, 18g carbs, 5g protein.

Share Your Results

We’d love to see your creations! Tag us on social media @PastryCatalog or share your version in the comments below. Happy baking!