Strawberry cream puffs are delightful pastries that combine light, airy choux pastry shells with a luscious strawberry-infused cream filling. These elegant treats are perfect for special occasions or whenever I crave a sophisticated dessert.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
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Delicate Pastry: The choux pastry shells bake up crisp on the outside and hollow on the inside, providing a perfect vessel for the creamy filling.
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Fresh and Fruity: Incorporating fresh strawberries into the cream adds a natural sweetness and vibrant flavor that elevates the dessert.
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Versatile Presentation: Whether dusted with powdered sugar, drizzled with chocolate, or adorned with extra strawberry slices, these cream puffs are as beautiful as they are delicious.
Ingredients
(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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For the Pastry Shells:
- 400g puff pastry
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
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For the Filling:
- 100g fresh strawberries, sliced
- 100ml whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons icing sugar (adjust to taste)
- 8 teaspoons strawberry jam
- 1 tablespoon white cocoa syrup (optional)
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For Garnish:
- Icing sugar, for dusting
- Melted chocolate, for drizzling
Directions
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Prepare the Pastry: Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F). Roll out the puff pastry to your desired thickness. Using a heart-shaped cutter or knife, cut out heart shapes from the pastry. Alternatively, cut the pastry into rectangles.
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Egg Wash and Bake: Place the pastry shapes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to achieve a golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven until puffed and golden brown, approximately 15-20 minutes.
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Prepare the Filling: While the pastries are baking, whip the cream with icing sugar until soft peaks form. If using white cocoa syrup, fold it into the whipped cream. Gently fold in the sliced strawberries.
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Assemble the Cream Puffs: Once the pastry hearts have cooled, slice them open horizontally. Spread a teaspoon of strawberry jam on the bottom half of each pastry. Pipe or spoon the strawberry cream mixture over the jam. Place the top half of the pastry over the filling.
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Garnish: Dust the assembled cream puffs with icing sugar and drizzle with melted chocolate if desired.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: Approximately 8 cream puffs
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Preparation Time: 20 minutes
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Baking Time: 15-20 minutes
Variations
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Flavor Infusions: Add a splash of vanilla extract or a hint of lemon zest to the whipped cream for an extra layer of flavor.
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Different Fruits: Substitute strawberries with other berries like raspberries or blueberries, or even a mix of seasonal fruits.
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Pastry Options: While puff pastry offers a flaky texture, traditional choux pastry can be used for a classic cream puff experience.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store any leftover cream puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
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Note: Filled cream puffs are best enjoyed the same day to maintain their crispiness.
FAQs
How can I prevent the pastry from becoming soggy after filling?
To keep the pastry crisp, assemble the cream puffs just before serving. If they need to be prepared in advance, consider adding a thin layer of melted chocolate inside the pastry to create a moisture barrier.
Can I use frozen puff pastry?
Yes, frozen puff pastry works well. Ensure it's fully thawed before rolling and cutting.
What if I don't have a heart-shaped cutter?
You can use any shape cutter or simply cut the pastry into squares or rectangles.
Is the white cocoa syrup necessary?
The white cocoa syrup adds a subtle flavor but is optional. The cream puffs will still be delicious without it.
Can I make the components ahead of time?
You can bake the pastry shells and prepare the filling in advance. Store them separately and assemble just before serving to maintain the best texture.
Conclusion
Strawberry cream puffs are a delightful fusion of flaky pastry and creamy, fruity filling. Their elegant appearance and delectable taste make them a standout dessert for any occasion. Enjoy crafting and savoring these sweet treats!
Strawberry Cream Puffs
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
- Total Time: 35–40 minutes
- Yield: 8 cream puffs
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: French-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Strawberry Cream Puffs are elegant, bite-sized desserts that blend flaky puff pastry shells with a luscious strawberry-infused whipped cream filling. These gorgeous, fruit-forward treats are perfect for Valentine’s Day, tea parties, or anytime you want an easy yet impressive dessert.
Ingredients
For the Pastry Shells:
- 400g puff pastry
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
For the Filling:
- 100g fresh strawberries, sliced
- 100ml whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons icing sugar (adjust to taste)
- 8 teaspoons strawberry jam
- 1 tablespoon white cocoa syrup (optional)
For Garnish:
- Icing sugar, for dusting
- Melted chocolate, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 200°C (392°F).
- Cut Pastry: Roll out puff pastry and cut into heart shapes or rectangles.
- Egg Wash: Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush with beaten egg.
- Bake: Bake for 15–20 minutes, until puffed and golden brown. Let cool completely.
- Make Filling: Whip cream with icing sugar until soft peaks form. Fold in cocoa syrup (if using), then gently fold in sliced strawberries.
- Assemble: Slice cooled pastries in half. Spread 1 teaspoon of strawberry jam on the bottom half. Pipe or spoon in the strawberry cream. Top with the other pastry half.
- Garnish: Dust with icing sugar and drizzle with melted chocolate if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract or lemon zest to the whipped cream.
- Substitute strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or mixed berries.
- Use choux pastry for a classic twist.
- Best served fresh, but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
