Save to Pinterest Celebrate love and sweetness with these Valentine Strawberry Cream Puffs, a classic French dessert that combines elegance with vibrant, fruity flavors. These delicate choux pastry shells are light as air, providing the perfect golden crunch to complement the velvety strawberry whipped cream hidden inside. Whether you are hosting a romantic dinner or a festive brunch, these charming treats are sure to steal the heart of anyone who tastes them.
Save to Pinterest The secret to these puffs lies in the chemistry of the dough. As the moisture in the butter and milk mixture evaporates in the high heat of the oven, it creates steam that lifts the pastry into its signature hollow shape. Filling them with a mixture of diced berries and strawberry jam ensures every bite is bursting with seasonal flavor.
Ingredients
- Choux Pastry
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) water
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk
- 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- Strawberry Cream Filling
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 1/4 cup (30 g) powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup (120 g) fresh strawberries, finely diced
- 2 tbsp strawberry jam (optional, for extra flavor)
- Topping
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Sliced strawberries, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2
- In a medium saucepan, combine water, milk, butter, salt, and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Step 3
- Remove from heat and stir in flour all at once. Return to heat and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides (about 1–2 minutes).
- Step 4
- Transfer dough to a mixing bowl. Let cool for 5 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each until smooth and glossy.
- Step 5
- Transfer dough to a piping bag fitted with a large round tip. Pipe 12 mounds (about 2 inches wide) onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Step 6
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and puffed. Do not open the oven during baking. Cool completely on a wire rack.
- Step 7
- While puffs cool, whip the cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. Gently fold in diced strawberries and jam (if using).
- Step 8
- Slice each puff in half horizontally. Fill the bottom half generously with strawberry cream, then replace tops.
- Step 9
- Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with sliced strawberries if desired. Serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
When preparing the choux pastry, ensure the flour is incorporated quickly and cooked until a thin film forms on the bottom of the pan; this ensures the dough is dry enough to rise properly. Always use room temperature eggs to achieve the smoothest emulsion when mixing them into the dough. Additionally, cooling the puffs completely on a wire rack is essential to prevent the cream from melting upon contact.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a decadent chocolate twist, you can drizzle melted dark chocolate over the finished puffs. If strawberries aren't in season, feel free to substitute them with fresh raspberries or blueberries. For an extra flavor boost, you can also mix a small amount of lemon zest into the whipped cream to brighten the berry notes.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these cream puffs on a vintage platter alongside a glass of chilled champagne or a cup of Earl Grey tea. They are best enjoyed immediately after assembly to maintain the crispness of the pastry. For an extra romantic touch, place a single mint leaf or an edible flower next to each puff on individual dessert plates.
Save to Pinterest With their golden exteriors and vibrant pink interiors, these Valentine Strawberry Cream Puffs are a testament to the joy of homemade baking. Simple yet sophisticated, they bring a touch of French patisserie magic to your kitchen. Enjoy the delightful crunch and creamy finish of a dessert made with love.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve the perfect puff in choux pastry?
Ensure the dough is cooked until it forms a ball and pulls from the pan before adding eggs. Bake at a high temperature without opening the oven door to maintain steam for puffing.
- → Can I prepare the strawberry cream filling ahead of time?
Yes, the strawberry whipped cream can be made up to 2 hours in advance and kept refrigerated until ready to fill the puffs.
- → What can I use instead of strawberries for the filling?
Raspberries or blueberries are great alternatives that pair nicely with the whipped cream base.
- → How should I store the cream puffs once assembled?
Assemble shortly before serving and store in the refrigerator to keep the filling fresh and the pastry from becoming soggy.
- → Is it possible to add a chocolate flavor twist?
Yes, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the filled puffs for an extra decadent touch.
