The moment the scent of freshly baked pastries fills the air, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over me. These Dreamy Eggnog Cream Puffs are my go-to holiday dessert, transforming the classic flavors of eggnog into delightful bites that are perfect for festive gatherings. Not only are they a crowd-pleaser, but their light and airy texture paired with a rich homemade eggnog whipped cream makes for an incredibly elegant treat—while still being incredibly easy to create. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply looking to add a touch of sweetness to your family’s celebration, these cream puffs will undoubtedly bring joy to the table. Ready to discover just how simple it is to whip up these dreamy delights? Let’s get started!
Why Are These Eggnog Cream Puffs Irresistible?
Decadent Creaminess: The luscious eggnog whipped cream filling blends rich spices with a light texture, ensuring a heavenly taste in every bite.
Festive Flavor: Infused with nutmeg and an optional splash of rum extract, these puffs capture the essence of holiday cheer.
Quick and Easy: Made with straightforward steps, you’ll have these delightful pastries ready in no time, perfect for busy holiday schedules.
Endless Variations: Feel free to experiment with flavors, like Piped Cream Cheese or adding unique extracts for a personal touch.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether at a Christmas gathering or as a treat for Santa, they are sure to impress everyone—from kids to adults!
Each bite is a celebration—don’t miss out on making these stunning cream puffs your new holiday favorite!
Eggnog Cream Puff Ingredients
For the Puffs
• Water – Essential for creating steam to puff the pastries; use the right quantity for optimal lightness.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor while ensuring tenderness; opt for high-quality butter.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; measure accurately to avoid density.
• Eggs – Bind ingredients and contribute to the puff’s rise; use large eggs at room temperature for best results.
• Salt – Balances flavor and enhances sweetness.
• Ground Nutmeg – Infuses the dough with a warm, festive aroma; freshly grated nutmeg recommended for best flavor.
For the Whipped Cream Filling
• Heavy Cream – The base of the whipped cream filling; use cold for better whipping results.
• Eggnog – The main flavor profile of the cream filling; choose high-quality store-bought or homemade.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the filling; adjust according to the sweetness of the eggnog.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds depth to the filling’s flavor.
• Rum Extract (Optional) – Provides an extra kick of holiday flavor; use sparingly.
• Powdered Sugar – For dusting the finished cream puffs.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Eggnog Cream Puffs
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, prepare your baking sheets by greasing them lightly or lining them with parchment paper for easy removal of the baked Eggnog Cream Puffs.
Step 2: Boil Ingredients
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup of water, ½ cup of unsalted butter, and a pinch of salt. Bring this mixture to a rapid boil, allowing the butter to melt completely. You’re aiming for a gentle boil, which will create steam that helps the cream puffs rise beautifully.
Step 3: Add Flour
Once the butter has melted, remove the saucepan from the heat. Quickly add 1 cup of all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
Step 4: Rest the Dough
Allow the dough to rest in the pan for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps the mixture cool slightly before incorporating eggs. You should be able to touch the dough without burning yourself; this ensures the eggs won’t cook upon addition.
Step 5: Incorporate Eggs
Add 4 large eggs, one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition until the dough becomes smooth and glossy. You want a dough that is thick but still pipable. This should take around 5 minutes of mixing, and the final texture should resemble a thick cake batter.
Step 6: Pipe the Dough
Using a pastry bag fitted with a round tip, pipe tablespoonfuls of the choux pastry dough onto your prepared baking sheets. Ensure to space them about 1 inch apart to allow room for rising. Aim for smooth, round mounds, which will create beautiful Eggnog Cream Puffs.
Step 7: Bake the Puffs
Carefully place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye out for a golden-brown color and a puffed-up appearance, which indicates the Eggnog Cream Puffs are perfectly done. Avoid opening the oven door while baking to maintain even heat.
Step 8: Release Steam and Cool
Once baked, remove the puffs from the oven and let them sit on the sheets for about 5 minutes. Then, pierce the bottom of each puff with a skewer to release steam, preventing sogginess. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 9: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of cold heavy cream until it starts to thicken. Gradually add 1 cup of eggnog, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of nutmeg. Continue to beat until soft peaks form, creating a fluffy, flavorful filling for your Eggnog Cream Puffs.
Step 10: Fill and Serve
Once the cream puffs are completely cool, fill each puff with the eggnog whipped cream using a pastry bag. Dust the filled cream puffs with powdered sugar for a festive touch. Serve them immediately for the best texture, and watch them disappear at your holiday gathering!
Eggnog Cream Puffs: Fun Variations
Embrace your creativity in the kitchen and make these delightful puffs your own with some easy twists!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy.
- Vegan: Replace eggs with a flaxseed mixture and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream to whip up a vegan version. The textures may differ a bit, but the flavor will remain festive!
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark chocolate and drizzle it over the filled puffs for a touch of indulgence—who can resist chocolate?
- Caramel Swirl: Mix in swirls of caramel sauce into your eggnog whipped cream to create a sweet surprise in every bite.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or other spices to the eggnog filling for a surprising, zesty flavor.
- Mini Treats: Pipe smaller rounds of dough for bite-sized puffs, perfect for a festive appetizer platter—great for sharing.
- Fruity Twist: Incorporate finely chopped fruits like cranberries or cherries into the cream filling for a hint of tanginess.
- Nutty Flavor: Create a nutty filling by folding in almond or hazelnut extract along with the eggnog.
For another festive dessert idea, try these Mini Banana Cream treats or whip up an elegant Pumpkin Cream Cheese to bring extra joy to your gathering!
How to Store and Freeze Eggnog Cream Puffs
- Room Temperature: Unfilled cream puff shells can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their crispness.
- Fridge: Once filled with eggnog whipped cream, they should be kept in the refrigerator and enjoyed within 1 day to prevent sogginess.
- Freezer: You can freeze unfilled cream puffs for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer in an airtight freezer bag, and thaw them at room temperature before filling.
- Reheating: If you need to refresh unfilled puffs after freezing, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes. This will restore their lightness and crispness before adding your eggnog filling.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Eggnog Cream Puffs are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free holiday gathering! You can make the unfilled pastry shells up to 2 days in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze the shells for up to 2 months—just ensure they’re completely cooled before freezing to maintain their texture. The eggnog whipped cream filling can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead; simply refrigerate it until you’re ready to fill the cooled puffs. When it’s time to serve, fill the puffs with the cream, dust with powdered sugar, and enjoy these festive treats, fresh and delicious with minimal last-minute effort!
What to Serve with Eggnog Cream Puffs
These delightful pastries are perfect for creating a festive spread that will tantalize your taste buds and charm your guests.
-
Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm mug of creamy hot chocolate offers a comforting beverage pairing, perfectly balancing the lightness of the cream puffs.
-
Cranberry Sauce: The tanginess of cranberry sauce cuts through the sweetness of the eggnog cream, providing a refreshing contrast on your holiday table.
-
Spiced Apple Cider: Serve warm spiced apple cider for a cozy drink that complements the holiday flavors of nutmeg and eggnog in the cream puffs.
-
Gingerbread Cookies: The spicy flavor of gingerbread cookies adds a festive touch alongside the cream puffs, making them an inviting duo during holiday gatherings.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream creates a creamy element that pairs well with the light texture of the eggnog cream, enhancing the overall indulgence.
-
Decadent Chocolate Ganache: Drizzle chocolate ganache over the cream puffs to add a rich layer of flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the eggnog whipped cream.
Expert Tips for Eggnog Cream Puffs
-
Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and heavy cream are fresh for the best flavor and texture in your Eggnog Cream Puffs.
-
Avoid Overmixing: When incorporating the eggs, mix just until the dough is smooth. Overmixing can lead to dense puffs instead of light and airy ones.
-
Check Oven Temperature: An oven thermometer can ensure your oven is at the correct temperature, preventing under-baked or over-baked Eggnog Cream Puffs.
-
Pipe Even Sizes: When piping the dough, try to keep the sizes uniform to ensure even baking. This will help achieve a consistent rise in each puff.
-
Cool Before Filling: Make sure the puffs are completely cool before adding the cream filling. This prevents the whipped cream from melting and keeps your Eggnog Cream Puffs intact.
Eggnog Cream Puffs Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right eggnog for my cream puffs?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose a high-quality eggnog, whether store-bought or homemade. Look for options made with natural ingredients, as they tend to have a richer and more satisfying flavor profile. If you’d like to customize, consider making your own eggnog a day in advance for optimal results.
How should I store leftover filled Eggnog Cream Puffs?
Very important! Once your cream puffs are filled, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 1 day—while still delicious, they tend to lose their delightful crispness over time. For unfilled puffs, you can store them at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Can I freeze Eggnog Cream Puffs?
Of course! To freeze unfilled cream puffs, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them into an airtight freezer bag and they can last up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature. If you want to refresh their crispness, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes before filling.
What should I do if my cream puffs deflate after baking?
Common troubleshooting! If your puffs deflate, it’s often because of inadequate baking. Ensure your oven is preheated correctly and avoid opening the door during baking. It’s also important to pierce the puffs after baking to release steam, which helps maintain their shape. If they tumble, check your measurements; too much flour or insufficient moisture can lead to dense results.
Are these Eggnog Cream Puffs suitable for people with allergies?
Great question! These cream puffs contain common allergens such as eggs, dairy, and gluten due to the ingredients like heavy cream, all-purpose flour, and eggs. If making for someone with allergies, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends and dairy-free whipped cream alternatives. However, always check labels to ensure safety for your guests.
Delightful Eggnog Cream Puffs for a Festive Holiday Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare your baking sheets.
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of water, ½ cup of unsalted butter, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a rapid boil.
- Remove from heat and add 1 cup of all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Stir until smooth.
- Allow the dough to rest in the pan for about 5 minutes.
- Incorporate 4 large eggs, one at a time, mixing until smooth.
- Pipe tablespoonfuls of the dough onto prepared baking sheets, spaced 1 inch apart.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden-brown.
- Let the puffs sit for 5 minutes, then pierce each to release steam.
- Beat 1 cup of cold heavy cream until thick, then add 1 cup of eggnog, 2 tablespoons of sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of nutmeg until soft peaks form.
- Fill each puff with the eggnog whipped cream and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Leave a Reply