Toasted Coconut Cream Puffs

A light and elegant dessert featuring crisp pastry shells filled with silky coconut cream and crowned with toasted coconut. These puffs deliver a delicate balance of textures—a crispy exterior yielding to a luxuriously creamy center—that make them a memorable finale for any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines airy pâte à choux with rich coconut flavor
• Simple yet impressive presentation suitable for gatherings or elegant dinners
• Make-ahead filling lets you prep in stages for less stress

ingredients

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

• 1 cup water
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• Pinch of salt
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup coconut cream (or full‑fat coconut milk)
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut, toasted

directions

1. Prepare the pâte à choux: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a saucepan, bring water, butter, and salt to a boil. Add flour all at once, stirring vigorously until the mixture forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the pan.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly (2–3 minutes). Add eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next, until batter is glossy and thick.
3. Pipe or spoon small mounds onto a baking sheet lined with parchment. Bake 20–25 minutes, until golden and puffed. Turn off oven, crack door, and let puffs dry for 5 minutes to prevent collapse. Cool completely.
4. Make the coconut cream: In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form. In another bowl, combine coconut cream, vanilla, powdered sugar, and half the toasted coconut. Gently fold whipped cream into coconut mixture until smooth.
5. Assemble: Fill éclairs or choux by piping or spooning coconut cream into the base or bottom half. Top each puff with a sprinkle of remaining toasted coconut.

Servings and timing

• Yield: About 12–15 puffs
• Prep time: 25 minutes
• Baking time: 25 minutes
• Cooling & filling: 20 minutes
• Total time: Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes

storage/reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container up to 2 days. Coconut cream keeps the pastry crisp.
• Freezing: Freeze shells without filling up to 1 month. Thaw, refill before serving.
• Reheat shells: Warm empty shells in a 350°F oven for 3–4 minutes to refresh crispness, then cool before filling.

FAQs

What is the difference between coconut cream and coconut milk?

Coconut cream is thicker and richer, ideal for creamy fillings. Coconut milk is thinner; you can use it but the cream may be less rich, so consider reducing the sugar or thickening with cornstarch.

How do I toast shredded coconut?

Spread evenly on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5–7 minutes, stirring once, until lightly golden and fragrant. Watch closely to prevent burning.

Can I use frozen pastry shells?

Yes. Freeze unfilled puffs, then bake or re-crisp in the oven before filling.

How can I make the shells dairy‑free?

Use dairy-free butter or coconut oil, and substitute water with coconut milk.

Can these be assembled in advance?

Fill the shells about 1 hour before serving for best texture. Unfilled shells can be made a day ahead and stored in airtight containers.

Why did my shells collapse?

Likely from cooling too quickly. After baking, leave the oven door cracked for a few minutes to let steam escape before fully cooling.

Is there a gluten‑free version?

Yes. Use a gluten-free blend formulated for baking in equal measure. Choux texture may vary, so handle gently.

Can I flavor the cream differently?

Absolutely—add lime zest, almond extract, or a tropical fruit puree to complement the coconut.

How long can I keep leftovers?

Up to 2 days refrigerated. After that, the shell may become soggy as the cream softens it.

How do I transport these for an event?

Pack the shells and filling separately. Assemble on-site to preserve the crisp pastry shell.

Conclusion

These Toasted Coconut Cream Puffs combine delicate pastry with tropical indulgence—crispy shells filled with luscious coconut cream, finished with a crunchy coconut garnish. They look exquisite, taste unforgettable, and are easier to prepare than they appear. Enjoy one as a special treat or serve them at your next gathering for an elegant and effortless dessert.

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