Cream Puff Cake is a delightful and elegant dessert that combines the light, airy texture of cream puffs with the creamy richness of vanilla pudding and whipped cream. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for any special occasion or a simple family treat. With a fluffy crust, a smooth and creamy filling, and a topping of whipped cream and chocolate syrup, it’s sure to impress and satisfy any sweet tooth.
Overview of the Recipe
This recipe transforms the classic cream puff into a cake format, making it easier to serve and share. The light, airy crust is baked to perfection and topped with a luscious filling made from instant pudding, milk, and cream cheese. The final touch is a generous layer of whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
Key Components:
- Cream Puff Crust: A light and airy base made from butter, water, flour, and eggs.
- Creamy Filling: A rich mixture of instant pudding, milk, and cream cheese.
- Whipped Cream Topping: A smooth layer of whipped cream with a chocolate drizzle.
History and Origin
Cream puffs, also known as profiteroles, are a classic French dessert that dates back to the 16th century. This recipe puts a modern twist on the traditional cream puff by transforming it into a cake, making it easier to prepare and serve for a crowd.
Ingredients
- ½ cup butter (or margarine)
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 eggs
- 1 box instant vanilla or white chocolate pudding (large box)
- 3 cups milk
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 8 oz whipped cream
- Chocolate syrup
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
- Spray the Baking Dish: Spray a 9×13 ceramic or glass baking dish with cooking spray. Set aside.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Make the Dough
- Boil Butter and Water: In a medium saucepan, bring the butter and water to a boil over medium heat.
- Add Flour: Once boiling, add the flour all at once and stir vigorously until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Add Eggs: Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until smooth.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
- Spread the Dough: Spread the dough evenly into the greased 9×13 dish, ensuring it covers the bottom and partially up the sides.
- Bake: Bake the crust in the preheated oven at 400°F for 30 minutes. The crust will puff up the sides, creating the desired effect. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
- Mix Pudding and Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, combine the instant pudding mix, milk, and softened cream cheese. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth and no lumps remain.
- Pour the Filling: Pour the pudding mixture into the cooled cream puff crust, spreading it evenly.
Step 5: Top with Whipped Cream
- Spread Whipped Cream: Evenly spread the whipped cream over the pudding layer.
- Refrigerate: Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to set.
Step 6: Add Chocolate Syrup
- Drizzle with Chocolate Syrup: Just before serving, drizzle the top of the cake with chocolate syrup. You can also use homemade chocolate fudge sauce, chocolate ganache, or sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top for extra flavor and texture.
Serving Size:
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per serving
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Cream Puff Cake pairs well with:
- Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a fruity contrast.
- Coffee or Tea: A hot cup of coffee or tea complements the creamy and sweet flavors of the cake.
- Ice Cream: For an indulgent treat, serve with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream.
Variations of the Recipe
- Chocolate Cream Puff Cake: Use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla and top with a chocolate ganache.
- Fruit Topped Cream Puff Cake: Add a layer of fresh fruit such as sliced bananas, strawberries, or kiwi on top of the pudding layer before adding the whipped cream.
- Nutty Cream Puff Cake: Sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans over the whipped cream layer for added crunch and flavor.
Health Benefits and Notes
This dessert is a rich and indulgent treat. To make it slightly healthier, consider using lower-fat versions of the cream cheese and whipped topping, or use a sugar-free pudding mix.
Health Tips:
- Lower Calories: Use light or fat-free cream cheese and whipped topping to reduce the calorie content.
- Increase Fiber: Substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a bit more fiber.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Cream Puff Cake up to a day in advance. Keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.
Can I freeze Cream Puff Cake?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the pudding and whipped cream may change when thawed.
What can I use instead of instant pudding mix?
You can make homemade pudding if you prefer. Use a recipe for cooked pudding and allow it to cool before mixing with the cream cheese and milk.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
Cream Puff Cake is a delightful and elegant dessert that combines the best of cream puffs and pudding into a single, easy-to-make cake. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert will impress your guests with its light, airy crust and creamy, rich filling. Garnished with chocolate syrup and whipped cream, it’s both visually appealing and delicious. Enjoy making and sharing this wonderful treat with your family and friends. Happy baking!