Cream puff with whipped cream

My favorite cake – Cream Puff with Whipped Cream

Within each of us, there exists a recipe that takes us back in time, evoking pleasant memories and special moments. For me, this cake is the cream puff, a delicacy that reminds me of my childhood, of warm summer days when my mother would come home with a box full of treats from the pastry shop. The smooth milk cream, the crispy layers, and the feeling of nostalgia turn every slice of cream puff into a journey into the past. Today, I want to share with you this simple yet charming recipe, perfect for celebrating special moments, especially now, on this special day dedicated to women. Happy Birthday to all!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 24 minutes
Total time: 54 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 400 g frozen puff pastry (make sure it is completely thawed before use)
- Flour for dusting the surface

For the cream:
- 500 ml milk
- 4 egg yolks
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 vanilla pod
- 2 packets vanilla sugar
- 250 g sweetened liquid cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the pastry sheets
Start by completely thawing the puff pastry. This is an essential step, as the pastry sheets need to be easily rolled out. Once thawed, divide the dough into two equal parts. On a floured surface, roll out each part of the dough into thin sheets. Make sure the sheets are the size of your baking tray, so they fit perfectly.

2. Baking the sheets
Preheat the oven to 175-180 degrees Celsius. Place the first sheet of dough in a tray lined with parchment paper and bake for about 12 minutes or until golden and crispy. Repeat this process with the second sheet. Finally, let the sheets cool completely.

3. Preparing the cream
In a pot that can be placed on the stove, mix the egg yolks with the sugar until you have a homogeneous mixture. Then add the flour and cornstarch, mixing well. Gradually incorporate the milk, continuing to stir to avoid lumps. Split the vanilla pod lengthwise and add it to the mixture. Place the pot on low heat and stir constantly until the cream thickens, having a consistency similar to pudding. This step is crucial, as constant stirring prevents the cream from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

4. Adding flavors
Once the cream has thickened, remove it from the heat, take out the vanilla pod, and add the vanilla sugar. Mix well, then let the cream cool slightly (it should not be cold, just warm).

5. Assembling the cake
After the cream has cooled slightly, spread it evenly over the first sheet of dough. In a separate bowl, whip the cream until you achieve the desired consistency, then carefully spread it over the cream in the tray. Place the second sheet of dough on top and gently press down with your palms to adhere to the cream.

6. Finalizing
Dust the cake with powdered sugar for an elegant look and let it chill for at least an hour before serving. If you are impatient, feel free to cut a few slices even if it hasn't had enough time to cool completely – it's just as good!

Suggestions and Variations

- Whipped cream-free version: If you prefer a simpler cream puff, you can double the quantities for the cream and skip the whipped cream. The cream will be rich and delicious enough to compensate.
- Dough sheets: Although it's recommended to use frozen puff pastry, you can opt for store-bought sheets. However, the taste and texture will be much better with freshly made puff pastry.
- Serving: The cream puff pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea, and alongside vanilla ice cream, it becomes an unforgettable dessert.

Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: approximately 280
Protein: 3 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fats: 16 g

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use plant-based milk instead of cow's milk?
Yes, you can use almond, soy, or coconut milk, but the taste and texture may vary.

- How can I keep the cream puff fresh?
Store the cake in the refrigerator, covered, to prevent it from drying out. It is recommended to consume it within 2-3 days.

The cream puff is not just a delicious dessert but also a window to beautiful memories. I encourage you to try it at home and remember the special moments from your childhood. Enjoy every slice, share it with loved ones, and savor the magic of taste!