These Italian Cream Puffs are the kind of dessert that looks fancy but is secretly simple to make. With flaky, golden puff pastry and a silky vanilla custard filling, every bite is light, creamy, and perfectly sweet. They’re ideal for holidays, dinner parties, or anytime you want an elegant treat without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry
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1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
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Powdered sugar, for dusting
Custard Filling
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2 cups whole milk
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½ cup granulated sugar
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¼ cup cornstarch
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Pinch of salt
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4 large egg yolks
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2 teaspoons vanilla extract
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
Step 1: Bake the Pastry
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Cut the puff pastry into circles using a round cookie cutter or glass. Place them on the baking sheet and lightly prick the centers with a fork to prevent too much puffing.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Custard
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens.
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly pour a small amount of the hot milk mixture into the yolks while whisking to temper them. Then pour the yolk mixture back into the saucepan.
Continue cooking for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the custard is smooth and thick. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter until fully combined.
Transfer the custard to a bowl and press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble the Cream Puffs
Slice the cooled pastry rounds in half horizontally.
Pipe or spoon the chilled custard onto the bottom halves, then place the tops back on.
Dust generously with powdered sugar just before serving.
Conclusion
Crisp on the outside, creamy on the inside, these Italian Cream Puffs are a timeless dessert that feels special with every bite. Whether served at a celebration or as a sweet ending to a family meal, they’re sure to impress with their delicate texture and rich vanilla flavor.