How to Make Mom’s Famous Cream Puffs
Step 1: Make the Boiling Base
In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, water, and vanilla. Bring to a full rolling boil.
Step 2: Form the Dough
Once boiling, add the flour all at once. Stir quickly and continuously until the dough pulls away from the sides of the pan and forms a smooth ball.
Step 3: Cool and Add the Eggs
Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes to avoid scrambling the eggs. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. The dough should be smooth, glossy, and thick.
Step 4: Shape and Bake
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Drop tablespoon-sized mounds of dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them apart. Bake for 25–30 minutes until puffed, firm, and deep golden brown. Cool completely.
Step 5: Prepare the Famous Filling
In a chilled bowl, combine the heavy cream, dry pudding mix, and milk. Beat with a mixer until thick and stable, resembling a firm whipped cream.
Step 6: Assemble
Slice the cooled puffs horizontally. Fill generously with the cream mixture, replace the tops, and dust lightly with powdered sugar.
