Easy Cream Puff Dessert
A simple twist on classic cream puffs! This layered dessert features a light, pastry-like crust topped with creamy vanilla pudding, whipped topping, and a drizzle of chocolate syrup. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, and sweet cravings.
Ingredients
Pastry Base:
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 eggs
Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 4 cups cold milk divided
- 3 3.4 oz packages Instant French Vanilla Pudding
Topping:
- 8 oz whipped topping like Cool Whip, thawed
- Chocolate syrup for drizzle (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a saucepan, bring water and butter to a boil. Stir in flour quickly until mixture forms a smooth ball. Let cool for 5–10 minutes.
- Beat in eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Spread mixture into the prepared dish.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until puffed and golden. Let cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with 1 cup milk until smooth.
- Add remaining 3 cups of milk and instant pudding mixes. Beat until thick, about 2–3 minutes.
- Spread pudding mixture over the cooled crust.
- Top with whipped topping and drizzle with chocolate syrup.
- Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- Swap vanilla pudding for chocolate or butterscotch if desired.
- Gluten-free flour can be used for the base.
- Homemade whipped cream can be used in place of Cool Whip (stabilized preferred).
- Add chopped nuts or fresh berries as garnish for extra flair.