Easy Cream Puff Cake Recipe
This Easy Cream Puff Cake Recipe is a delightful and simple dessert that layers soft cream puffs with rich vanilla pudding and airy whipped cream. Perfect for any occasion, it offers quick preparation, make-ahead convenience, and customizable variations that cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs.
- Author: Lucas
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 3-4 hours (including chilling time)
- Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Can be adapted to Gluten Free and Dairy Free
Base
- Store-bought cream puffs (about 12-15 pieces)
Vanilla Pudding Layer
- 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz)
- 2 cups cold milk
Whipped Cream Topping
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh fruit (strawberries, blueberries, or mixed berries)
- Chopped toasted almonds or pistachios
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Prepare the Vanilla Pudding: Whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with 2 cups of cold milk according to package instructions until thickened to a creamy consistency, which will become the filling layer.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form, creating a light and fluffy topping for the cake.
- Layer the Cream Puffs: Arrange the cream puffs evenly in a rectangular dish to form the base layer that will absorb the pudding.
- Add the Pudding Layer: Gently spoon the prepared vanilla pudding over the cream puffs, covering them completely but avoiding oversaturation.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Spread the whipped cream evenly over the pudding layer, smoothing the surface for an attractive finish.
- Chill and Set: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set properly.
Notes
- Use chilled milk for a thicker pudding texture.
- Quickly layer pudding over cream puffs to prevent them from becoming soggy.
- Whip cream to soft peaks for ideal spreading consistency.
- Refrigerate overnight for enhanced flavor melding and texture.
- Add fresh fruit just before serving for a bright, fresh garnish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/10 of the cake)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: cream puff cake, easy dessert, vanilla pudding cake, no bake dessert, layered dessert, party dessert