Eggnog Cream Puffs

Eggnog Cream Puffs have a special place in my heart, reminding me of cozy holiday gatherings filled with laughter and warmth. I can still picture my grandmother bustling around the kitchen, her apron dusted with flour, as she whipped up these delightful puffs for our family celebrations. The aroma of freshly baked cream puffs mingled with the scent of spices and sweet eggnog made the holidays feel truly magical. Every bite brought joy, and I knew I wanted to carry on this tradition.

These festive treats are perfect for the holiday season, whether you're hosting a party or simply indulging in a sweet moment with your loved ones. Light, airy, and filled with luscious eggnog whipped cream, Eggnog Cream Puffs are a delicious way to celebrate the spirit of the season. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you'll find yourself dreaming of making them year after year!

Why You'll Love "Eggnog Cream Puffs"

• Quick prep time of just 20 minutes, perfect for busy holiday schedules.
• Minimal ingredients required, making it easy to whip up a batch.
• Family-friendly and sure to impress kids and adults alike.
• Freezer-friendly; you can prepare the shells in advance!
• Deliciously festive flavor that captures the essence of the holiday season.
• Perfect for gatherings, parties, or cozy nights in with loved ones.

Ingredients You'll Need

• 1 cup water
• ½ cup butter, cubed (I love using unsalted butter for a balanced flavor)
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (for best results, sift it before measuring)
• ¾ teaspoon ground nutmeg (freshly grated nutmeg takes it to the next level)
• 4 large eggs, room temperature (this helps create that perfect airy texture)

• 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream (go for a high-fat content for a richer taste)
• 1 ½ cups confectioners' sugar (sifted to avoid lumps in your whipped cream)
• ¼ cup eggnog (use your favorite brand or homemade for a personal touch)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure vanilla extract is always my go-to)
• ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg (to sprinkle into the whipped cream for extra flavor)

• Additional confectioners' sugar for dusting (this makes everything look festive and sweet!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

First things first, let's get that oven preheated! Set it to 400°F (200°C) because we want our cream puffs to bake up nice and golden. While that's heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This is super important because it prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. You'll be grateful for this little step later!

Make the Cream Puff Dough

Now, let's dive into making the cream puff dough! In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of water, ½ cup of cubed butter, and ⅛ teaspoon of salt. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil over medium heat. Once it's bubbling away, quickly add in 1 cup of all-purpose flour and ¾ teaspoon of ground nutmeg all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the dough pulls away from the sides of the pan and forms a smooth ball. Remove it from the heat and let it stand for about 5 minutes. This resting time is crucial for the dough to cool slightly before we add the eggs!

Add Eggs and Beat

After your dough has cooled for a bit, it's time to add those eggs! Crack 4 large eggs, one at a time, into the mixture. This is where the magic happens! Beat well after each addition, and watch as the dough transforms into a glossy, smooth consistency. Don't worry if it looks a bit runny; that's just how it should be! Keep mixing until it's all well combined and shiny - you've got this!

Bake the Cream Puffs

Now, it's time to bake! Using a rounded tablespoon, drop spoonfuls of your dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each puff. I usually aim for about 12 puffs per batch. Pop them in your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they're puffed up and golden brown. You'll love the smell wafting through your kitchen! Once they're done, carefully remove them from the oven and let them cool on wire racks. The waiting is hard, but trust me, the end result will be worth it!

Prepare the Eggnog Whipped Cream

While those lovely puffs are cooling, let's whip up the eggnog filling! In a large mixing bowl, pour in 1 ½ cups of heavy whipping cream. Using an electric mixer, beat the cream until soft peaks form. This is the fun part! Gradually add in 1 ½ cups of sifted confectioners' sugar, ¼ cup of eggnog, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ⅛ teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Keep whipping until you see stiff peaks form. It should be light and fluffy, and oh-so-delicious! Give it a little taste - I promise you won't be able to resist licking the whisk!

Assemble the Cream Puffs

Now for the best part: assembly! Take each cooled cream puff and carefully slice them in half. Don't worry if they're not perfectly even; a little rustic charm is what we're going for! Fill each bottom half generously with that glorious eggnog whipped cream, and then pop the tops back on. Finally, dust a little extra confectioners' sugar over the top to make them look absolutely festive. There you have it - beautiful Eggnog Cream Puffs ready to impress and delight your family and friends!

Variations

• For a chocolate twist, add cocoa powder to the cream puff dough.
• Try a pumpkin spice filling by substituting half the eggnog with pumpkin puree and adding pumpkin pie spice.
• Make them gluten-free using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
• Add a splash of brandy or rum to the whipped cream for an adult version!

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

To serve your Eggnog Cream Puffs, arrange them on a festive platter for a beautiful presentation. They're best enjoyed chilled, so keep them in the refrigerator until it's time to dig in. Pair them with a warm cup of cocoa or coffee for a delightful treat!

Storage

Store any leftover cream puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They're best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to keep them longer, the unfilled shells can be frozen for up to a month. Just fill them with whipped cream before serving!

Helpful Notes

• For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream in the whipped cream.
• If you don't have eggs, you can substitute with ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce per egg.
• Feel free to add crushed peppermint candies to the whipped cream for a festive crunch.
• Ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are cold for better whipped cream results.
• These cream puffs are nut-free, making them a great choice for gatherings!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Eggnog Cream Puffs?

Yes, you can freeze the unfilled cream puff shells for up to a month. Just fill them with whipped cream before serving.

How do I substitute the eggs?

You can substitute each egg with ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce or ¼ cup of silken tofu for a vegan option.

Can I use a different flavor of whipped cream?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors like peppermint, cinnamon, or chocolate by adjusting the extracts and spices in the whipped cream.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up a batch of these delightful Eggnog Cream Puffs! They're not just a dessert; they're a way to create memories and share joy with those you love. Whether it's a holiday gathering or a cozy night at home, these little treats are sure to bring smiles all around. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the magic happen in your kitchen. I can't wait for you to taste them and hear how much you loved making them! Happy baking!