Mom’s Homemade Cream Puffs

Step 2: Shape and Bake the Puff Shells

1. Preheat your oven – Set the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pipe or spoon the dough – Using a piping bag or two spoons, place small mounds of dough (about 2 inches in diameter) onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them at least 2 inches apart.
3. Bake – Bake for 15 minutes at 400°F, then reduce the heat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the puffs are golden brown and crisp. Avoid opening the oven door during baking to prevent collapse.
4. Cool completely – Remove from the oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool. Hollow centers should be created naturally by the steam during baking.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Filling

1. Heat milk – In a medium saucepan, bring the milk to a gentle boil.
2. Mix egg yolks and sugar – While the milk heats, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
3. Temper the eggs – Slowly pour about half of the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
4. Cook the pastry cream – Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until it thickens and comes to a gentle boil.
5. Add butter and vanilla – Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract. Let the cream cool completely in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface to avoid a skin forming.

Step 4: Assemble the Cream Puffs

1. Hollow the shells – Using a small knife, cut the tops off the cooled puff shells or make a small hole in the bottom.
2. Fill with pastry cream – Transfer the cooled cream into a piping bag and fill each puff generously.
3. Optional toppings – Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for a finishing touch.

Tips for Perfect Cream Puffs

• Avoid opening the oven during the first 20 minutes of baking to ensure the puffs rise properly.
• Chill the pastry cream before filling to prevent soggy shells.
• Experiment with flavors – Add a hint of coffee, cocoa, or citrus zest to the cream for a unique twist.

Final Thoughts

Making Mom’s Homemade Cream Puffs is a labor of love that rewards you with a dessert full of charm, flavor, and nostalgia. Once you master the choux pastry and creamy filling, these delightful treats can be enjoyed at family gatherings, celebrations, or simply as a cozy afternoon indulgence. The crispy exterior paired with the soft, luxurious cream inside is a combination that never fails to impress.

If you want, I can also make a simpler, foolproof version of Mom’s Cream Puffs for beginners that’s guaranteed to turn out perfectly every time. It’s slightly easier but still delicious.

Do you want me to do that?