Eggnog Cream Puffs

If you’re searching for a show-stopping holiday dessert, look no further than Eggnog Cream Puffs. These delightful pastries combine the rich, festive flavors of traditional eggnog with light, airy cream puffs to create a treat that’s both indulgent and utterly charming. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in, this recipe brings a unique twist to classic cream puffs that everyone will rave about.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive flavor fusion: Combines the warm spices of eggnog with delicate pastry for a unique holiday treat.
• Light and airy texture: The cream puffs’ fluffy exterior balances perfectly with the rich, creamy filling.
• Impresses guests easily: A sophisticated dessert that looks like it took hours but is surprisingly simple to make.
• Adaptable to any occasion: Perfect for holiday parties, winter desserts, or even a cozy afternoon indulgence.
• Make-ahead friendly: Can be prepared in advance, making your holiday entertaining stress-free.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each component of this recipe is simple and thoughtfully chosen to build the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. Using fresh, quality ingredients makes all the difference in achieving that ideal eggnog essence and light cream puff dough.

• All-purpose flour: Provides structure and helps create the chewy yet tender shell of the cream puffs.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness to the dough and helps with a crisp, golden exterior.
• Eggs: The key ingredient giving the pastry its delicate puff and the base for the luscious filling.
• Whole milk: Enhances the creamy texture of the filling and strengthens the dough.
• Eggnog concentrate or prepared eggnog: Infuses the cream puff filling with its signature festive flavor.
• Sugar: Balances the spices and enriches the sweet cream filling.
• Vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor profile with a smooth, aromatic touch.
• Nutmeg and cinnamon: Bring the warm spices essential to recreate that classic holiday eggnog taste.
• Heavy cream: Whipped for the filling to add lightness and volume.
• Powdered sugar: For dusting the finished puffs and adding an elegant presentation.

Variations for Eggnog Cream Puffs

The beauty of Eggnog Cream Puffs is how easily they can be personalized. Whether you prefer to tweak the spices, adjust sweetness, or accommodate dietary needs, there’s a perfect variation for everyone to enjoy!

• Dairy-free option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free butter alternative without compromising flavor.
• Boozy twist: Add a splash of bourbon or rum to the filling for an adult-friendly holiday treat.
• Spiced up: Experiment with additional spices like cloves, cardamom, or ginger to intensify that festive aroma.
• Chocolate shell: Dip the top of the cream puffs in melted dark or white chocolate for an elegant and decadent finish.
• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for choux pastry to make this recipe accessible to gluten-sensitive guests.

How to Make Eggnog Cream Puffs

Step 1: Prepare the Choux Pastry

Begin by boiling water, milk, butter, and a pinch of salt until the butter melts completely. Remove from heat and stir in all-purpose flour vigorously until the mixture forms a smooth ball. Let it cool slightly before mixing in eggs one by one to create a thick, glossy dough perfect for piping.

Step 2: Pipe and Bake the Cream Puffs

Transfer the dough to a piping bag and pipe small rounds onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at a moderate temperature until the puffs are golden brown, crisp on the outside, and hollow inside, which allows space for the filling.

Step 3: Make the Eggnog Filling

In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of nutmeg until soft peaks form. Gently fold in eggnog concentrate to infuse the filling with that authentic eggnog flavor, and whip just to combine for a light but richly spiced cream.

Step 4: Assemble the Cream Puffs

Once the cream puffs have cooled completely, slice them in half horizontally and carefully spoon or pipe the eggnog cream filling inside. Dust with powdered sugar and sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg for a festive finishing touch.

Pro Tips for Making Eggnog Cream Puffs

• Perfect dough consistency: Ensure the dough is smooth but thick enough to hold shape when piped to prevent spreading.
• Cool puffs completely: Fully cooled shells prevent the filling from melting and maintain texture integrity.
• Use chilled bowls for whipping: Keep your cream and mixing tools cold to achieve the best volume and stability.
• Don’t overbeat the cream: Stop whipping as soon as soft peaks form to keep the filling light and airy.
• Customize gently: When folding in eggnog or flavorings, do so carefully to avoid deflating the whipped cream.

How to Serve Eggnog Cream Puffs

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly grated nutmeg or cinnamon powder on top for an aromatic finish. You can also add a drizzle of caramel or melted chocolate for extra richness and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Pair Eggnog Cream Puffs with a warm cup of spiced chai, hot chocolate, or mulled wine to enhance the holiday mood and complement the dessert’s festive spices.

Creative Ways to Present

Create a stunning dessert tower or platter by stacking the cream puffs, dusting with powdered sugar, and adding sprigs of fresh rosemary or holly for a seasonal touch that wows your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep assembled cream puffs refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness without the shells getting soggy.

Freezing

Freeze unfilled cream puff shells in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw and fill just before serving to preserve texture.

Reheating

Warm frozen or refrigerated shells in a preheated oven briefly to crisp up before filling. Avoid reheating after filling to prevent the cream from melting.

FAQs

Can I make Eggnog Cream Puffs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the shells up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container. It’s best to fill them with the eggnog cream just before serving to keep everything fresh.

What if I don’t have eggnog concentrate?

You can substitute prepared eggnog or make your own by mixing milk, cream, sugar, and traditional eggnog spices like nutmeg and cinnamon.

How do I prevent the cream puffs from collapsing?

Make sure to bake them until they are fully dry and golden brown; any moisture inside can cause them to deflate quickly. Also, avoid opening the oven door during baking.

Are Eggnog Cream Puffs suitable for kids?

Absolutely! You can omit any alcohol and use alcohol-free eggnog or a homemade dairy version to keep it kid-friendly and just as delicious.

Can I use a store-bought pastry shell instead of making my own?

While you can, homemade choux pastry offers the best texture and flavor. Store-bought shells might not achieve the same lightness and can affect how the filling sets.

Final Thoughts

Eggnog Cream Puffs are a fantastic way to bring warmth, joy, and festive spirit to any dessert table. Their delightful combination of light pastry and creamy, spiced filling creates a treat that’s both charming and indulgent. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply craving a cozy winter dessert, these cream puffs are guaranteed to become a new favorite. Give this recipe a try and watch them disappear in no time!

Related Posts

• Fruity Pebbles Cheesecake Tacos
• Christmas Chocolate Trees
• Cappuccino Fudge Cheesecake

Print