Introduction
This simple, flour-free recipe brings together the perfect balance of buttery goodness with a rich, creamy filling, creating a delicious dessert that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Whether you’re making this for a special occasion or a cozy treat, it’s quick to prepare and packs a punch of flavor.
The creamy, indulgent filling is inspired by a traditional family recipe that brings an extra level of comfort to this dish.
With minimal ingredients and steps, you’ll enjoy a mouthwatering dessert in no time.
Ingredients
For the base:
1 stick butter
1 cup water
1 tsp vanilla
1 cup flour
4 eggs
For Mom’s famous filling:
1 pint heavy cream
1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding
⅓ cup milk
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium saucepan, combine the butter and water over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the butter has melted completely.
Once the butter is melted, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the flour, and once fully incorporated.
return the pan to the stove. Keep stirring the mixture over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until it thickens.
Next, add the eggs, one at a time, stirring after each addition until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy. This step helps to create a thick, cohesive dough-like consistency.
Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. Spoon the dough onto the baking sheet.
forming small mounds or rounded shapes. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up.
While the base is baking, make the filling by whisking together the heavy cream, instant vanilla pudding, and milk in a mixing bowl.
Continue whisking for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens to your desired consistency.
Once the baked base has cooled, carefully cut each puff in half. Fill the center with the prepared vanilla pudding mixture and gently press the top back in place.
How to Make
Begin by melting the butter and water in a saucepan, then mix in the flour to form a dough. Adding eggs one at a time and mixing thoroughly creates the texture needed for the dough to puff up perfectly when baked.
The real magic happens when you create the filling: a smooth, rich vanilla pudding combined with creamy whipped heavy cream.
The trick to making the base perfectly is allowing it to bake until golden brown. This is crucial for achieving the light, airy texture that will support.
the creamy filling without collapsing. Once baked, the puffs are a delicate shell that is ready to be filled with the rich, velvety pudding mixture.
Variations
For a twist on the classic recipe, try substituting the vanilla pudding with chocolate or banana pudding for a different flavor profile.
You can also use whipped cream in place of the heavy cream to make the filling lighter and fluffier.
Another variation could include adding a hint of citrus to the filling, such as lemon or orange zest, for a refreshing and aromatic element.
You can even experiment by adding a dollop of fruit preserves to the filling, like raspberry or strawberry, to add a fruity burst of flavor.
To make the base extra indulgent, consider drizzling melted chocolate or caramel on top of the filled puffs for a richer treat.
Tips
Be sure to allow the butter and water mixture to cool slightly before adding the eggs, as adding them to a hot mixture can cause them to cook prematurely.
Patience is key to creating a smooth, silky filling, so whisk the heavy cream and pudding mixture thoroughly to avoid lumps.
If you prefer a more crisp texture for the base, you can increase the baking time by a few minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.
For a more festive presentation, dust the filled puffs with powdered sugar just before serving. This adds an elegant touch and enhances the sweetness of the dessert.
Conclusion
This flour-free dessert is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed by anyone with dietary restrictions or simply looking for something different.
The buttery base paired with the creamy vanilla filling creates an irresistible combination, perfect for any occasion.
It’s simple, yet elegant, and with a few variations, it’s easy to customize for your taste. Enjoy this recipe with friends and family, and savor each sweet bite.