Cream Puff Cake

Imagine the light, airy texture of a classic cream puff transformed into an easy, elegant cake. This Cream Puff Cake features golden pastry layers, a luscious cream cheese filling, and a buttery almond topping with just the right crunch. It’s indulgent yet light, making it the perfect dessert for holidays, family gatherings, or a sweet weekend treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cream Puff Texture in Cake Form: Soft, golden pastry with creamy filling.
• Easy but Impressive: No individual puffs—just pour, bake, and layer.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Always a hit at parties, potlucks, and family dinners.
• Customizable Topping: Add sliced almonds or leave them out—it’s delicious either way.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepares beautifully the day before serving.

Ingredients

For the Cake Layers:

• 1 cup water
• 1⁄2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1⁄4 teaspoon salt
• 4 large eggs

Filling:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping:

• 1⁄4 cup butter, melted
• 1⁄2 cup sliced almonds (optional)
• 1⁄4 cup granulated sugar

Directions

Preheat the Oven

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.

Make the Choux Pastry Layer

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, bring 1 cup water and 1⁄2 cup butter to a boil.
2. Remove from heat and quickly stir in 1 cup flour and 1⁄4 tsp salt all at once.
3. Stir vigorously until the mixture forms a smooth dough ball.
4. Let it cool for 3–5 minutes.
5. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. The dough should become thick, smooth, and glossy.

Bake the Cake Layer

6. Spread the dough evenly into the prepared 9×13-inch dish.
7. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
8. Remove and allow the crust to cool completely in the pan.

Make the Cream Filling

9. In a large bowl, beat 8 oz softened cream cheese until smooth.
10. Add 1 cup powdered sugar and 1 tsp vanilla extract; mix until combined.
11. In a separate bowl, whip 2 cups heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
12. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and fluffy.

Assemble the Cake

13. Once the base is completely cooled, spread the cream filling evenly over the entire surface.
14. Smooth with a spatula for an even layer.

Prepare the Topping

15. In a small bowl, combine:
    • 1⁄4 cup melted butter
    • 1⁄2 cup sliced almonds (optional)
    • *1⁄4 cup granulated sugar
16. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the cream layer.

Chill and Serve

17. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow the filling to set.
18. Slice into squares and serve chilled.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Let the crust cool completely before adding filling to avoid melting.
• Make it fancy: Drizzle chocolate or top with fresh berries.
• Skip the almonds if you prefer a nut-free version or swap for chopped pecans.
• For extra stability, chill for 4 hours or overnight before slicing.
• Add lemon or orange zest to the filling for a citrus twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Best served cold, straight from the fridge.
• Garnish with fresh berries, mint leaves, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
• Pair with coffee, espresso, or dessert wine for a luxurious treat.
• Great as a make-ahead dessert for holidays, brunches, or potlucks.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the cake base only. Add the filling and topping after thawing.
• Reheating: Not necessary—serve cold.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! It’s best chilled for several hours, and even better the next day.

Can I make this without the almonds?
Absolutely. Leave them out or replace with chopped walnuts, pecans, or even toasted coconut.

Can I use whipped topping instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute Cool Whip for convenience, but the taste and texture will be lighter and sweeter.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not by default, but you can use a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend for the choux layer.

Can I freeze leftovers?
You can freeze the cake without the filling. Once frozen, thaw and assemble with the cream layer fresh.

Conclusion

Cream Puff Cake is a stunning twist on a beloved classic—combining airy pastry, creamy filling, and a crunchy, buttery topping in one effortless dessert. Perfect for all seasons and occasions, this cake brings together elegance and ease in every bite. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself, this showstopper never disappoints.

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