Introduction
Custard filled cream puffs are a classic sweet treat that many people love from the first bite.
This recipe is all about making soft and light cream puffs at home and filling them with smooth and creamy custard.
These little pastries look fancy but they are actually simple when explained in an easy way.
The outside is light and airy while the inside is rich and creamy with gentle sweetness.
Many people think cream puffs are hard to make but this recipe shows that anyone can do it.
With simple ingredients and clear steps you can create bakery style cream puffs in your own kitchen.
People love custard filled cream puffs because they feel special and comforting at the same time.
They remind many of childhood treats from bakeries or family celebrations.
The soft shell melts in the mouth and the custard feels smooth and satisfying.
This dessert is not too heavy and not too sweet which makes it perfect for many tastes.
It feels like a reward after a long day or a joyful addition to a happy moment.
That balance of light pastry and creamy filling is why people keep coming back for more.
You can make custard filled cream puffs for many reasons and occasions.
They are great for birthdays family gatherings or quiet evenings at home.
Some people make them to relax and enjoy the joy of baking something beautiful.
Others make them to impress guests without needing advanced baking skills.
They are also nice when you want a dessert that feels light and gentle on the stomach.
Making them at home brings happiness warmth and a sense of achievement.
Ingredients You Will Need
For the cream puff pastry
1 cup water
1 half cup unsalted butter
1 cup all purpose flour
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon sugar
1 quarter teaspoon salt
For the custard filling
2 cups whole milk
1 half cup sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch
4 egg yolks
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional topping
1 half cup powdered sugar for dusting
Step by Step Method
Step 1 Prepare the oven and baking tray
Start by heating your oven to 200 degrees Celsius.
Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Keep the tray ready so you can place the pastry quickly later.
Having everything ready helps the process go smoothly.
Step 2 Make the cream puff dough
Take a medium saucepan and add water butter sugar and salt.
Place it on medium heat and stir until the butter melts fully.
Once it starts to boil gently add the flour all at once.
Stir quickly with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a smooth dough.
The dough should pull away from the sides of the pan.
Step 3 Cool the dough slightly
Remove the pan from heat and let the dough cool for about five minutes.
This step is important so the eggs do not cook when added.
The dough should be warm but not hot to touch.
Step 4 Add eggs one by one
Add one egg to the dough and mix well until fully combined.
Repeat this process with each egg.
The dough may look slippery at first but keep mixing.
In the end it should look smooth thick and shiny.
Step 5 Shape the cream puffs
Transfer the dough to a piping bag or use a spoon.
Drop small round portions onto the prepared baking tray.
Leave enough space between each puff as they will grow.
Try to keep them similar in size for even baking.
Step 6 Bake the puffs
Place the tray in the oven and bake for about thirty minutes.
Do not open the oven door during baking.
The puffs should rise and turn golden brown.
Once baked turn off the oven and leave the door slightly open.
Let the puffs sit inside for five minutes to dry out.
Step 7 Cool the pastry shells
Remove the puffs from the oven and place them on a wire rack.
Allow them to cool completely before filling.
If they are filled while warm the custard may melt.
Step 8 Prepare the custard filling
In a bowl mix sugar cornstarch and egg yolks until smooth.
Heat the milk in a saucepan until warm but not boiling.
Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while stirring.
This helps prevent lumps and cooked eggs.
Step 9 Cook the custard
Pour the mixture back into the saucepan.
Cook on low heat while stirring constantly.
The custard will slowly thicken into a creamy texture.
Once thick remove from heat and add butter and vanilla.
Stir until smooth and glossy.
Step 10 Cool the custard
Transfer the custard to a bowl.
Cover the surface with plastic wrap touching the custard.
Let it cool completely at room temperature.
This prevents a skin from forming.
Step 11 Fill the cream puffs
Once everything is cool make a small hole in each puff.
Use a piping bag to fill each puff with custard.
Fill until you feel the puff become slightly heavy.
Step 12 Final touch
Dust the filled cream puffs with powdered sugar.
Serve immediately or keep chilled until ready to enjoy.
Why This Recipe Is Special
This recipe is special because it uses simple ingredients that many people already have at home.
It does not require fancy tools or professional baking skills.
The steps are clear and easy which makes it perfect for beginners.
The result feels impressive even though the process is simple.
From a taste point of view the contrast is beautiful.
The light airy shell pairs perfectly with the rich creamy custard.
It is sweet but not overwhelming which makes it enjoyable for all ages.
You can eat one or two without feeling too full.
There are also some gentle health points to consider.
Because the puffs are light they feel less heavy than many desserts.
You control the sugar and ingredients when making them at home.
This makes them a better option than store bought pastries.
Extra Tips for Better Taste
Use fresh eggs for the best rise and flavor.
Always measure ingredients carefully for consistent results.
Let the custard cool fully before filling the puffs.
You can add a little lemon zest to the custard for fresh flavor.
Try filling them just before serving to keep the shells crisp.
Serve with fresh fruit on the side for a lovely balance.
Final Thoughts
Custard filled cream puffs are a wonderful dessert that brings joy and comfort.
They look beautiful taste amazing and feel rewarding to make at home.
This recipe proves that you do not need to be an expert to create something special.
With patience and simple steps anyone can enjoy these delicious treats.
Share them with loved ones or enjoy them quietly with a cup of tea.
Baking like this is not just about food but about happiness and care.
Nutrition Details
Below is an estimated nutrition table per serving based on one filled cream puff.
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Sugar | 9 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Calcium | 80 mg |
Nutrition values may vary based on ingredients used and portion size.
Disclaimer
This recipe and nutrition information are for general guidance only.
Everyone body reacts differently to foods and ingredients.
Portion size and individual health needs may change results.
Always listen to your body and enjoy desserts in balance.
