Cream Puff Cake: A Showstopping Dessert Without the Fuss!

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This decadent, no-fail dessert combines the best parts of a cream puff and a cake into one irresistible layered masterpiece. With a buttery choux pastry crust, creamy custard filling, and silky chocolate glaze, it’s perfect for special occasions—or just because!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ No piping or shaping – Easier than traditional cream puffs
✅ Make-ahead friendly – Assemble ahead and chill
✅ Crowd-pleasing – Looks fancy, tastes incredible
✅ Customizable – Swap fillings & toppings to your taste

Ingredients & Substitutions

For the Choux Pastry Crust

  • 1 cup water
  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 large eggs
  • ¼ tsp salt

For the Custard Filling

  • 2 (3.4 oz) packages instant vanilla pudding
  • 3 cups cold milk
  • 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, thawed

For the Chocolate Glaze

  • ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp light corn syrup (optional, for shine)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Choux Pastry Base

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a saucepan, bring water, butter, and salt to a boil.
  3. Remove from heat, add flour all at once, and stir vigorously until a smooth ball forms.
  4. Cool slightly, then beat in eggs one at a time until glossy.
  5. Spread evenly in the baking dish. Bake 25-30 mins until puffed and golden. Let cool completely.

2. Prepare the Custard Filling

  1. Whisk pudding mix and milk for 2 minutes until thickened.
  2. Fold in whipped topping.
  3. Spread over the cooled crust.

3. Add the Chocolate Glaze

  1. Heat cream until steaming, then pour over chocolate chips. Let sit 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
  2. Stir in corn syrup (if using) for extra shine.
  3. Drizzle over the custard layer.

4. Chill & Serve

  • Refrigerate at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
  • Slice into squares and enjoy!

Pro Tips

🍫 Extra decadence: Add a layer of sliced strawberries under the custard.
⏳ Time-saver: Use store-bought custard or pudding.
🔥 Crisp crust: If the base softens, re-crisp in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes before adding filling.

Variations

☕ Mocha: Add 1 tbsp instant espresso to the chocolate glaze.
🍓 Berry Bliss: Top with fresh raspberries & white chocolate drizzle.
🍋 Lemon Cream: Use lemon pudding + lemon zest in the filling.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pudding?

Yes! Prepare 3 cups of your favorite custard and cool before using.

How long does it keep?

3 days in the fridge—cover tightly.

Can I freeze it?

The unfrosted crust freezes well for 1 month, but fill just before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Cream Puff Cake is the ultimate easy-but-elegant dessert—light yet rich, simple but impressive. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or when you want to treat yourself!

Warning: Disappears fast—make a double batch! 🎂✨

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