Cream Puff Cake

Indulge in this heavenly Cream Puff Cake, combining the light and airy texture of choux pastry with a creamy vanilla pudding filling, whipped topping, and a drizzle of chocolate syrup. Perfect for any celebration or as a delightful treat for the whole family!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the classic flavors of cream puffs in an easy-to-assemble cake.
• Light and airy pastry base contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
• Customizable with various pudding flavors, toppings, or garnishes.
• A show-stopping dessert that’s surprisingly simple to make.
• Great for parties, gatherings, or when you need a comforting sweet treat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Choux Pastry Base:

• 1 cup water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 eggs

For the Cream Filling:

• 2 (3.9 oz) boxes instant vanilla pudding
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 3 1/2 cups milk

For Topping:

• 8 ounces whipped topping (defrosted)
• 1/4 cup chocolate syrup

Directions

Prepare the Choux Pastry Base

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Make Dough: In a medium saucepan, bring water, salt, and butter to a boil. Remove from heat and pour into a mixing bowl. Add the flour and beat by hand or with an electric mixer until the dough forms a ball.
3. Cool Dough: Let the dough cool for 10 minutes.
4. Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until the mixture is thick and smooth. The surface should have a satin-like sheen. Cool for another 5 minutes.
5. Bake: Spread the dough evenly in the greased pan. Bake for 15 minutes at 450°F, then prick the puffed dough in several places with a knife to release steam. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 20 minutes. Let the pastry cool completely (30-45 minutes).

Prepare the Cream Filling

6. Cream Cheese Base: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
7. Mix Pudding: In another bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and milk until smooth and thickened. Gradually add the pudding mixture to the cream cheese, mixing slowly at first and then beating well until fully combined.

Assemble the Cake

8. Layer Filling: Pour the cream filling over the cooled choux pastry base, spreading evenly.
9. Top with Whipped Cream: Cover the filling with the whipped topping.
10. Drizzle Chocolate Syrup: Finish with a drizzle of chocolate syrup for a decorative and delicious touch.

Chill and Serve

11. Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the layers to set. Slice into squares and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Servings: 12 servings
• Calories: 320 kcal per serving

Variations

• Flavor Twist: Try chocolate, butterscotch, or banana pudding instead of vanilla for a unique flavor profile.
• Homemade Whipped Cream: Substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.
• Nutty Garnish: Add crushed almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts for a crunchy texture.
• Fruit Layer: Include sliced strawberries, bananas, or fresh raspberries between the cream filling and whipped topping.
• Cookie Crumble: Sprinkle crushed cookies, such as Oreos or graham crackers, over the whipped cream.

Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftover Cream Puff Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: While the cream filling may not freeze well, you can freeze the baked choux pastry base separately for up to 1 month. Thaw and assemble the cake fresh.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade pudding?

Yes, homemade pudding works perfectly, but ensure it is well-chilled and set before mixing with the cream cheese.

2. Why is my choux pastry flat?

This could be due to underbaking or failing to prick the dough to release steam. Make sure to follow the baking instructions carefully.

3. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, but full-fat cream cheese provides a creamier texture and richer flavor.

4. How can I prevent the cream filling from being runny?

Ensure the pudding is mixed thoroughly and refrigerate the filling for a few minutes if needed before assembling.

5. Can I skip the whipped topping?

Yes, but the whipped topping adds a light and fluffy finish that balances the creamy filling.

6. Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the cake the day before and refrigerate until ready to serve.

7. How do I prevent the chocolate syrup from sinking into the whipped topping?

Drizzle the syrup just before serving or freeze it slightly before drizzling for a thicker consistency.

8. Can I make mini cream puff cakes?

Yes, bake the dough in smaller pans or ramekins and divide the filling accordingly.

9. What’s the best way to serve this cake?

Serve chilled with a side of coffee or tea for a refreshing and decadent dessert experience.

10. Can I add cocoa powder to the choux pastry?

Adding cocoa powder may alter the texture. For a chocolatey base, try using a chocolate pudding layer instead.

Conclusion

This Cream Puff Cake is an elegant, crowd-pleasing dessert that combines the airy texture of choux pastry with a luscious cream filling and sweet chocolate drizzle. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whip up a batch today and savor every creamy, dreamy bite!

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