Imagine a dessert so decadent, so irresistibly creamy, that it transforms an ordinary meal into a culinary celebration. The Cream Puff Pie is not just a dessert—it's a magical fusion of classic eclair and heavenly cake that promises to elevate your dessert game from ordinary to extraordinary. With its golden, puffy crust, silky smooth vanilla pudding filling, and tantalizing chocolate drizzle, this recipe is about to become your new obsession that will have everyone begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup chocolate syrup (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, combine water and butter. Bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, ensuring the butter is completely melted.
- Remove the pan from heat and quickly stir in the all-purpose flour, mixing vigorously until the mixture forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Let the dough cool for 5 minutes, then add eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Spread the prepared dough evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating a uniform base layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and puffed. Remove and let cool completely at room temperature.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk until smooth and thickened, about 2 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the prepared pudding mixture until well combined.
- Spread the pudding cream mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
- Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set completely.
- Before serving, drizzle chocolate syrup in a decorative pattern across the top of the pie.
- Slice into 12 equal portions and serve chilled. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Ensure your butter and water are at a rolling boil when adding flour to create the perfect choux pastry base.
- Egg Addition Technique: Add eggs one at a time and mix thoroughly to achieve a smooth, glossy dough consistency.
- Whipping Cream Wisdom: For the fluffiest cream, use cold heavy cream and chill your mixing bowl beforehand.
- Pudding Perfection: Whisk pudding mix and milk for exactly 2 minutes to get the ideal thickness.
- Chill Factor: Allow at least 2 hours of refrigeration to let the pie set completely for the best texture.
- Decorative Drizzle: Use a squeeze bottle or spoon for an elegant chocolate syrup pattern.
- Make Ahead Magic: This pie can be prepared a day in advance, making it perfect for entertaining!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 165mg
