If you are looking for an elegant yet approachable dessert, this fresh strawberry cream puffs recipe made simple is exactly what you need. Light choux pastry, fluffy vanilla whipped cream, and juicy fresh strawberries come together to create a dessert that feels special without being complicated. These strawberry cream puffs are perfect for spring and summer gatherings, celebrations, or anytime you want a bakery style treat made at home.
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cream Puffs Recipe
This recipe strikes the perfect balance between impressive and achievable. Choux pastry may sound intimidating, but it is made with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. The pastry bakes up light and crisp, creating the ideal shell for a generous filling of softly whipped cream and sweet strawberries.
Another reason to love this dessert is its freshness. The strawberries add natural sweetness and brightness, while the cream keeps everything light and airy. You can assemble the cream puffs shortly before serving, making them ideal for entertaining without stress.
Ingredients for Strawberry Cream Puffs
Choux Pastry
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
Whipped Cream Filling
- 1½ cups heavy whipping cream
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Strawberry Layer
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 to 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, optional
Ingredient Notes
Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor and texture. If your strawberries are very sweet, you can skip the added sugar entirely.
Heavy whipping cream should be cold before whipping. This helps it whip faster and hold its shape.
If you want extra richness, you can replace ½ cup of whipped cream with mascarpone cheese, gently folded in after whipping.
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Choux Pastry Dough
Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium saucepan, combine the water and butter over medium heat. Bring to a boil, then add the flour all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
Step 2: Add the Eggs
Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and let it cool for 5 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The dough should be smooth, glossy, and thick enough to hold its shape.
Step 3: Shape and Bake
Spoon or pipe the dough onto the prepared baking sheet into medium sized mounds or a large rectangle if making puff slices. Leave space between each portion.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until puffed, golden, and crisp. Do not open the oven during baking. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Strawberries
Place sliced strawberries in a bowl. If using sugar, sprinkle it over the strawberries and gently toss. Let sit for 10 to 15 minutes to release their juices.
Step 5: Whip the Cream
In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over whip, as the cream should remain light and smooth.
Step 6: Assemble the Cream Puffs
Once the pastry is fully cooled, slice each puff in half horizontally. Spoon or pipe whipped cream onto the bottom half, top with strawberries, and place the top pastry back on.
Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving.
Pro Tips for Success
- Measure ingredients accurately for reliable choux pastry.
- Allow the pastry to cool before filling to prevent melting the cream.
- Do not over whip the cream or it will become grainy.
- Assemble close to serving time for the best texture.
- Use a serrated knife for clean pastry cuts.
Flavor Variations
- Chocolate Strawberry Cream Puffs: Drizzle melted chocolate over the filled puffs.
- Lemon Cream Puffs: Add lemon zest to the whipped cream for brightness.
- Mixed Berry Cream Puffs: Use a mix of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries.
- Vanilla Bean Cream: Replace vanilla extract with vanilla bean paste for deeper flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve strawberry cream puffs lightly dusted with powdered sugar. They pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk. For special occasions, arrange them on a platter with extra strawberries on the side.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Unfilled choux pastry can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
Filled cream puffs are best enjoyed the same day. If needed, store assembled puffs in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, knowing the pastry will soften slightly.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 140 mg |
FAQ About Strawberry Cream Puffs
Are cream puffs difficult to make?
Cream puffs are easier than they seem. Once you master the choux pastry dough, the rest of the recipe is very straightforward.
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare the pastry shells and whipped cream separately ahead of time. Assemble shortly before serving for the best texture.
Why did my cream puffs collapse?
Cream puffs can collapse if they are under baked or removed from the oven too early. Bake until fully golden and crisp.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are best, but thawed frozen strawberries can work if well drained. Expect a softer texture.
Strawberry Cream Puffs
Equipment
- medium saucepan
- wooden spoon
- mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- baking sheet
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1–2 tbsp granulated sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium saucepan, bring the water and butter to a boil. Add the flour all at once and stir vigorously until a smooth dough forms and pulls away from the pan.
- Transfer the dough to a bowl and let cool for 5 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until smooth and glossy.
- Spoon or pipe dough onto the baking sheet, leaving space between portions. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until puffed and golden. Cool completely.
- Place sliced strawberries in a bowl. Toss with sugar if using and let sit for 10 to 15 minutes to release juices.
- Whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Slice cooled pastry shells in half. Fill with whipped cream and strawberries, then replace the tops and serve.
Notes
Nutrition
Final Thoughts
This fresh strawberry cream puffs recipe made simple proves that elegant desserts do not have to be complicated. With crisp pastry, fluffy cream, and sweet strawberries, this dessert is sure to impress while remaining approachable and fun to make at home.
