Special Italian Cream Puffs with Custard Filling are delightful treats that melt in your mouth. With a crispy outer layer and a rich, smooth custard filling, these cream puffs are perfect for any occasion. They are a classic dessert that combines elegance with simplicity, making them an ideal choice for gatherings, celebrations, or just to enjoy at home.
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Why Make This Recipe
You should make this recipe because it offers a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. The light and flaky puff pastry pairs perfectly with the creamy custard, creating a satisfying dessert that everyone will love. Plus, making cream puffs at home is a rewarding experience. You get to enjoy the heavenly aroma of freshly baked pastries and the satisfaction of creating something special from scratch.
How to Make Special Italian Cream Puffs with Custard Filling
Ingredients
- 1 sheet Puff pastry, thawed
- 2 cups Whole milk
- 1/2 cup Granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup Cornstarch
- 1 pinch Salt
- 4 large Egg yolks
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Directions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Step 2: On a floured surface, gently roll out the thawed puff pastry, if needed. Slice into circles using a biscuit cutter (about 2-3 inches in diameter). Prick each pastry circle with a fork to prevent excessive puffing during baking. Arrange on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them an inch apart. Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden and puffed. Let cool completely.
Step 3: While the puffs cool, prepare your custard filling. Add whole milk, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt to a medium saucepan. Whisk together, then set over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens slightly (about 3-5 minutes). In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks. Once the milk mixture is warm (but not boiling), temper the yolks by slowly adding a bit of the hot liquid while whisking. Return everything to the saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring until thick and smooth—about 5 more minutes.
Step 4: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in vanilla extract and unsalted butter until fully melted and incorporated. Let the custard cool slightly, then transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (pressing it to the surface), and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 5: To assemble, carefully slice each cooled pastry puff in half horizontally. Spoon or pipe a generous amount of chilled custard onto the bottom half, then replace the top.
Step 6: Finish with a generous dusting of powdered sugar just before serving. Enjoy immediately for the ultimate freshness and flavor.
How to Serve Special Italian Cream Puffs with Custard Filling
Serve these cream puffs as a light dessert or an afternoon treat with coffee or tea. They look beautiful on a platter and can be the centerpiece of your dessert table. For an elegant touch, consider serving them with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
How to Store Special Italian Cream Puffs with Custard Filling
To store your cream puffs, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best enjoyed fresh, but if stored properly, they can last for up to 2 days. Avoid stacking them on top of each other to prevent sticking.
Tips to Make Special Italian Cream Puffs with Custard Filling
- Make sure your puff pastry is fully thawed before using for the best results.
- Use fresh ingredients for the custard to enhance the flavor.
- Don’t skip the step of pricking the puff pastry; it helps them bake evenly.
- Experiment with different flavors for the custard, like chocolate or lemon.
Variation
You can vary the fillings for your cream puffs. Instead of custard, try using whipped cream, pastry cream, or even flavored mousse. This allows you to create different flavor profiles to suit your taste.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make the custard in advance?
A1: Yes, you can prepare the custard in advance and store it in the fridge. Make sure to cover it to prevent a skin from forming.
Q2: What can I do if my cream puffs don’t rise?
A2: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking. Also, do not open the oven door during baking, as this can cause the puffs to collapse.
Q3: Can I freeze the cream puffs?
A3: Yes, you can freeze the baked puffs. Just make sure they are well cooled and placed in an airtight container. Thaw them before filling and serving.
Enjoy making and indulging in these delicious Special Italian Cream Puffs with Custard Filling!
Special Italian Cream Puffs with Custard Filling
Ingredients
Puff Pastry
- 1 sheet Puff pastry, thawed Make sure it’s fully thawed before using.
Custard Filling
- 2 cups Whole milk Use fresh milk for the best flavor.
- ½ cup Granulated sugar
- ¼ cup Cornstarch
- 1 pinch Salt
- 4 large Egg yolks Be careful when tempering with the warm milk mixture.
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter Stir in when the custard is removed from the heat.
For Serving
- Powdered sugar, for dusting Dust just before serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a floured surface, and cut into circles using a biscuit cutter.
- Prick each pastry circle with a fork and arrange on the baking sheet, spacing them an inch apart.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden and puffed, then let cool completely.
Custard Preparation
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together whole milk, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.
- Set over medium heat and stir continuously until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
- In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Temper the yolks by slowly adding a bit of the hot liquid while whisking.
- Return everything to the saucepan and cook over medium-low heat until thick and smooth, about 5 more minutes.
- Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract and unsalted butter until melted and incorporated.
- Let cool slightly, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Assembly
- Slice each cooled pastry puff in half horizontally.
- Spoon or pipe a generous amount of chilled custard onto the bottom half, then replace the top.
- Dust with powdered sugar just before serving and enjoy immediately.
