Name: Irresistible Eggnog Cream Puffs for Festive Celebrations
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: ½ cup Unsalted Butter (Provides fat and richness for the pastry; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.); 1 cup Water (Hydrates the dough and assists with steam creation for puffing; no substitutions needed.); ½ teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavor in the choux pastry; use kosher salt if preferred.); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Gives structure and stability to the pastry; gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free version.); 4 large Eggs (Adds moisture and binds the ingredients; whole eggs only, no substitutes needed.); 2 cups Cold Heavy Whipping Cream (Forms the base of the filling, giving it a light, fluffy texture; non-dairy cream can be used.); ½ cup Eggnog (Provides the signature flavor; swap with whole milk and add ½ tsp of rum extract for a non-eggnog option.); ¼ cup Powdered Sugar (Sweetens the cream filling and stabilizes it; granulated sugar can be used but may affect the texture.); 1 packet Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix; ½ teaspoon Ground Nutmeg; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Enhances the sweetness of the filling; use pure vanilla for the best results.); ½ cup Powdered Sugar (Adds sweetness and visual appeal as a finishing touch; no substitutions necessary.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I felt the crisp winter air settle in, my mind wandered to cozy gatherings filled with laughter and indulgent treats. Nothing captures the essence of the holiday season quite like these Eggnog Cream Puffs. With their delicate, airy pastry shells and a rich, eggnog-flavored cream filling, they bring a festive twist to classic desserts. These delightful bites are not only quick to prepare but also sure to impress your friends and family, making them the perfect addition to any holiday spread. Whether you’re hosting a cheerful gathering or simply craving a sweet escape, these cream puffs promise to evoke warm feelings of nostalgia while delighting your taste buds. Curious about how to whip up this charming treat? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Are Eggnog Cream Puffs a Must-Try?

Unforgettable Flavor: The rich eggnog cream filling brings a delightful holiday twist, creating a memorable dessert experience.

Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you’ll have these festive treats ready in no time!

Versatile Options: Customize your Eggnog Cream Puffs by trying variations like adding cinnamon or making them mini-sized for cute bite-sized delights.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for holiday gatherings, these cream puffs are sure to impress friends and family, just like Brownie Ice Cream or Cream Cheese Salami.

Make Ahead: Prepare the pastry shells and cream beforehand for a stress-free serving at your next festive event. Embrace the season with these delightful bites!

Eggnog Cream Puffs Ingredients

For the Pastry

Unsalted Butter – Provides fat and richness for the pastry; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
Water – Hydrates the dough and assists with steam creation for puffing; no substitutions needed.
Salt – Enhances flavor in the choux pastry; use kosher salt if preferred.
All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure and stability to the pastry; gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free version.
Large Eggs – Adds moisture and binds the ingredients; whole eggs only, no substitutes needed.

For the Cream Filling

Cold Heavy Whipping Cream – Forms the base of the filling, giving it a light, fluffy texture; non-dairy cream can be used.
Eggnog – Provides the signature flavor; swap with whole milk and add ½ tsp of rum extract for a non-eggnog option.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the cream filling and stabilizes it; granulated sugar can be used but may affect the texture.
Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix – Thickens the filling and helps stabilize it without cooking; a critical ingredient for the filling texture.
Ground Nutmeg – Adds a warm, spicy note characteristic of holiday flavor; substitute with pumpkin spice for a different seasonal twist.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the sweetness of the filling; use pure vanilla for the best results.

For Dusting

Powdered Sugar (for dusting) – Adds sweetness and visual appeal as a finishing touch; no substitutions necessary.

Prepare to enjoy the festive magic of Eggnog Cream Puffs that will delight everyone at your holiday gatherings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Eggnog Cream Puffs

Step 1: Prepare Pastry
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine ½ cup unsalted butter, 1 cup water, and ½ teaspoon salt. Bring this mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally. Once boiling, remove from heat and add 1 cup all-purpose flour. Stir vigorously until a smooth dough forms, which should pull away from the sides of the pan. Let this dough cool for about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add Eggs
After the dough has cooled slightly, it’s time to add the eggs. Using a handheld mixer, beat in 4 large eggs, one at a time, mixing until each egg is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth and shiny. This is the choux pastry for your Eggnog Cream Puffs, and it should have a thick but pipeable consistency.

Step 3: Pipe and Bake
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a piping bag fitted with a large round tip, pipe 12 mounds of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each puff. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until they are puffed up and golden brown. Resist the urge to open the oven door during baking to ensure they rise beautifully.

Step 4: Cool
Once baked, remove the Eggnog Cream Puffs from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack. Allow the puffs to cool completely, which will take about 30 minutes. This step is crucial to prevent the cream filling from melting when you fill them.

Step 5: Prepare Filling
While the puffs are cooling, prepare the eggnog cream filling. In a large mixing bowl, whip together 2 cups cold heavy whipping cream, ½ cup eggnog, ¼ cup powdered sugar, 1 packet of instant vanilla pudding mix, ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Whip until the mixture reaches a thick, fluffy consistency, ensuring the cream filling is light and airy.

Step 6: Fill Puffs
Once the cream puffs have cooled, take a serrated knife and gently cut the tops off each puff to create a lid. Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each puff generously with the eggnog cream filling. Replace the tops carefully, ensuring a delightful surprise awaits inside each bite of your Eggnog Cream Puffs.

Step 7: Dust and Serve
Finally, dust the filled Eggnog Cream Puffs with powdered sugar for a festive touch. Serve them on a beautiful platter at your holiday gathering, and watch as they bring smiles to everyone’s faces, perfect for celebrating the season!

Eggnog Cream Puffs Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to mix things up and tailor these Eggnog Cream Puffs to your taste for a delightful twist on a classic!

Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free eggnog for a luscious vegan option. The result is just as creamy and rich!
Spice It Up: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to the pastry dough to infuse warm holiday notes into every bite. This simple twist enhances the festive flavor.
Mini Delights: Pipe smaller rounds for bite-sized puffs, cutting the baking time by 5-7 minutes. Perfect for a fun party platter and little hands!
Flavor Infusion: Replace eggnog with holiday-flavored coffee creamer for a different flavor profile. It brings a delightful, unexpected taste to the filling.
Nutty Addition: Stir in ¼ cup of finely chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for a delightful crunch and added texture. This adds a wonderful contrast to the creamy filling.
Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the filled puffs for an indulgent surprise, reminiscent of a decadent dessert we cherish.
Pumpkin Spice: Incorporate pumpkin spice into the cream filling for an autumn-inspired variation, perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings. It’s like a seasonal hug in every bite!
Fruity Twist: Add a tablespoon of orange zest to the cream filling for a refreshing citrus zing, complementing the richness of the eggnog. It’s a fragrant lift that brightens each bite!

By exploring these variations, you’ll find unique ways to savor the warmth of the holiday season, much like our delicious Garlic Parmesan Pasta or heartwarming Fiery Chicken Ramen. Enjoy crafting your perfect Eggnog Cream Puffs!

Make Ahead Options

These Eggnog Cream Puffs are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the pastry shells up to 24 hours in advance by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their delightful crunch. Additionally, the eggnog cream filling can be whipped up up to 8 hours ahead; just keep it chilled in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply fill the cooled pastry shells with the cream, dust them with powdered sugar, and enjoy these festive treats that remain just as delicious as when freshly made!

How to Store and Freeze Eggnog Cream Puffs

Fridge: Keep filled Eggnog Cream Puffs in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. They are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfilled cream puffs in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw puffs in the fridge overnight and fill with fresh eggnog cream just before serving for optimal texture.

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the pastry shells a day ahead and store them in an airtight container. The eggnog cream can be made up to 8 hours in advance and kept chilled.

Expert Tips for Eggnog Cream Puffs

• Choux Perfection: Ensure your choux dough cools slightly before adding eggs to avoid scrambling, which can ruin the texture.

• Piping Technique: Pipe the dough onto the baking sheet without overcrowding. This helps each Eggnog Cream Puff rise evenly and beautifully during baking.

• Cool Completely: Allow the puffs to cool completely before filling. This prevents the heat from the shells from melting your creamy eggnog filling.

• Whip It Right: For the lightest filling, whip the cold heavy cream until it holds stiff peaks before incorporating eggnog and other ingredients.

• Dusting Delight: Dust the cream puffs with powdered sugar just before serving. This keeps them looking fresh and delightful for your guests!

What to Serve with Eggnog Cream Puffs

As you prepare to delight in these sweet holiday treats, consider complementing them with a spread of festive accompaniments that will elevate any gathering.

Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of the cream puffs, balancing flavors beautifully.
Spiced Apple Cider: Warm and fragrant, this drink not only adds a cozy touch but enhances the holiday spirit at your table.
Gingerbread Cookies: These spiced classics bring a comforting crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy filling, adding nostalgic flavors.
Chocolate Fondue: Dip fresh fruits and marshmallows in rich chocolate for a decadent contrast that everyone will enjoy alongside the cream puffs.
Pecan Pie: The nutty, sweet flavors of pecan pie create a delightful dessert table that sings of holiday tradition.
Roasted Winter Vegetables: A savory touch with a hint of sweetness, these veggies balance the dessert spread and offer a satisfying crunch.
Eggnog Lattes: Serving lattes made with frothy eggnog brings a warm drink to the table, harmonizing with the creamy flavor of the puffs.
Festive Fruit Salad: A bright and colorful assortment of fresh fruits brings a refreshing, light contrast to the richness of your sweet treats.

Indulge in these delightful companions, and let the magic of your holiday celebrations unfold!

Eggnog Cream Puffs Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right eggs for my Eggnog Cream Puffs?
Absolutely! For the perfect choux pastry, always use large, fresh eggs. Look for eggs that feel heavy and have clean, uncracked shells. Fresh eggs help create a lighter texture, which is crucial for those airy cream puffs.

Can I store filled Eggnog Cream Puffs? If so, how?
Very! You can store filled Eggnog Cream Puffs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to enjoy them chilled or at room temperature. If you find any dark spots or signs of moisture, it’s a good idea to discard them to ensure freshness.

How should I freeze unfilled Eggnog Cream Puffs?
Of course! To freeze unfilled cream puffs, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and put them in the freezer until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or resealable freezer bag, and they’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the fridge and fill with fresh eggnog cream just before serving.

What if my choux pastry doesn’t puff up as expected?
Don’t worry, this happens sometimes! Ensure that the dough is well-cooked before adding the eggs, as this helps in achieving the right consistency. Also, make sure to pipe the dough onto the baking sheet without opening the oven door during baking, which can cause them to deflate. If they still don’t puff, check that your oven is calibrated correctly; the heat should be evenly distributed!

Are there any dietary considerations for Eggnog Cream Puffs?
Definitely! For those with dairy allergies, consider using non-dairy cream and margarine as substitutes. If you’re making these for someone with gluten sensitivities, gluten-free flour can work. As always, check ingredient labels to ensure they meet dietary needs, especially for guests with allergies.

Can I make these Eggnog Cream Puffs ahead of time?
Yes, you can! You can prepare the pastry shells a day in advance; just be sure to store them in an airtight container. The eggnog cream filling can also be made up to 8 hours ahead and kept chilled. Just assemble the cream puffs right before serving to ensure they are fresh and delightful!