Cream Puffs with Chocolate Ganache are an exquisite dessert made from airy choux pastry filled with rich cream and topped with a decadent chocolate glaze. These elegant treats are perfect for special occasions, dinner parties, or whenever you’re craving a refined, bakery-style dessert at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cream puffs combine light, delicate pastry with luscious filling and a glossy chocolate topping, delivering a dessert experience that is both luxurious and satisfying. Despite their gourmet appearance, they are surprisingly simple to make and always impress guests with their flavor and presentation.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the choux pastry:

• Water
• Unsalted butter
• Salt
• All-purpose flour
• Eggs

For the filling:

• Heavy cream
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract

For the chocolate ganache:

• Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
• Heavy cream
• Optional: chopped nuts or caramel drizzle for garnish

Directions

1. Make the choux pastry: In a saucepan, bring water, butter, and salt to a boil. Add flour all at once and stir vigorously until the dough pulls away from the sides of the pan. Let cool slightly.
2. Add eggs: Beat in eggs one at a time until the dough is smooth and shiny.
3. Bake: Pipe or spoon dough onto a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden and puffed. Cool completely.
4. Prepare the filling: Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Transfer to a piping bag.
5. Fill the puffs: Slice each puff open or poke a hole in the bottom and pipe in the whipped cream.
6. Make ganache: Heat heavy cream until just simmering. Pour over chocolate chips and stir until smooth.
7. Top with ganache: Dip the tops of each puff in the ganache or drizzle it over the top. Garnish if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 cream puffs
• Prep time: 25 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Custard-filled: Replace whipped cream with pastry cream or custard for a richer filling.
• Flavored cream: Add espresso powder, lemon zest, or cocoa powder to the cream for extra flavor.
• Mini puffs: Make smaller puffs for bite-sized party desserts.
• Add crunch: Sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts, almonds, or toffee bits.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store unfilled puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for 1–2 days. Filled puffs should be refrigerated and consumed within 2 days.
• Freezing: Freeze baked, unfilled puffs. Thaw and crisp in the oven before filling.
• Reheating: Not necessary once assembled. To refresh pastry, reheat unfilled shells at 300°F for 5–8 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make cream puffs in advance?

Yes, bake the shells ahead and fill them just before serving for best texture.

Why didn’t my puffs rise?

Ensure the dough is cooked properly and the oven is preheated to the correct temperature.

What can I use instead of whipped cream?

Pastry cream, ice cream, or even sweetened mascarpone are great alternatives.

How do I get smooth ganache?

Use warm cream and stir until fully melted and glossy. Avoid overheating.

Do I need a piping bag?

Piping is ideal for consistent shape and filling, but you can use spoons if necessary.

Can I freeze filled cream puffs?

It’s not recommended as the cream can separate. Freeze the shells only.

What type of chocolate is best for ganache?

Semi-sweet or dark chocolate gives the best balance with the sweet filling.

Can I use milk instead of cream for ganache?

Yes, but the result will be thinner and less rich.

Are cream puffs hard to make?

Not at all. With simple ingredients and careful steps, they’re quite achievable.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that’s suitable for choux pastry.

Conclusion

Cream Puffs with Chocolate Ganache are a classic French-inspired dessert that never fails to impress. With their crisp shells, velvety filling, and indulgent chocolate topping, these puffs are a delightful way to end any meal. Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying something new, this recipe offers elegance and satisfaction with every bite.

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