Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 450°F and grease a 9×13" baking pan.
- Boil together the water, butter, and salt in a saucepan.
- Remove from heat and pour this mixture into a mixing bowl.
- Add flour, then beat by hand or with an electric mixer until the mixture forms a ball.
- Cool the dough for 10 minutes before adding the eggs.
- Beat the eggs into the dough until thick and smooth and let it cool for another 5 minutes.
- Transfer the dough into the greased pan and press it down until flat.
- Bake for 15 minutes at 450°F, then prick the center to allow air to escape.
- Reduce the heat to 350°F and bake for an additional 20 minutes.
- Cool for 30-45 minutes before adding the cream filling.
- Beat the softened cream cheese, then whisk together the pudding and milk, mixing it with the cream cheese.
- Pour the mixture over the baked cream puff.
- Cover with Cool Whip and drizzle with chocolate syrup.
How to plate and pair
When it comes to serving Cream Puff Cake, creativity is key! Cut the cake into squares and serve it on a colorful dessert plate. Garnish each slice with a sprinkle of shaved chocolate or a dusting of powdered sugar for that extra flair. Pair it with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent touch!
How to store & freeze
To keep your Cream Puff Cake fresh, store it in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. If you want to prolong its life, you can freeze the cake (without toppings) for up to a month. Just remember to allow it to thaw completely in the fridge before consuming. Safe food handling is crucial, so always check for any signs of spoilage before serving.
Helpful cooking tips
To ensure your Cream Puff Cake turns out perfectly every time, make sure to avoid opening the oven door while it’s baking, as this can cause it to deflate. Also, be patient with cooling after baking; letting the layers settle can elevate the texture. Finally, room temperature cream cheese makes mixing so much easier, leading to a smooth filling.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Experiment with flavors for a delightful twist on Cream Puff Cake! Use chocolate instant pudding instead of vanilla for a rich flavor or sprinkle some berries between layers. For a seasonal spin, incorporate pumpkin puree into the cream mixture for a fabulous fall dessert!
Common questions
What is the prep time for Cream Puff Cake?
Typically, you will spend only 30 minutes preparing the ingredients and mixing them before baking.
Can I replace the whipped topping with homemade whipped cream?
Absolutely! Just whip your heavy cream with a bit of sugar until soft peaks form for a lighter, homemade touch.
Is it safe to freeze this cake?
Yes, just ensure it’s well covered to avoid freezer burn. Remember to add any toppings after you thaw it.
Try this Cream Puff Cake recipe for your next gathering, and witness how it becomes the star of the dessert table! Your friends and family will be raving about it long after it’s gone. Happy baking!
