Italian Cream Puffs (Sfogliatelle Inspired Pastries with Whipped Cream)

Italian Cream Puffs (Sfogliatelle Inspired Pastries with Whipped Cream)

🌸 Introduction

There’s something truly magical about the first bite of a freshly baked Italian cream puff — crisp, buttery layers of pastry giving way to a cloud of soft, sweet cream. These elegant pastries are reminiscent of traditional sfogliatelle or zeppole di San Giuseppe, capturing the beauty of Italian pastry artistry. Perfect for special occasions, Sunday brunch, or as a show-stopping dessert, they combine the golden crunch of puff pastry with the smooth indulgence of whipped cream.

🍰 Ingredients

For the Pastry:

• 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade), thawed

• 1 egg (for egg wash)

• 1 tbsp water

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• Powdered sugar, for dusting

For the Whipped Cream Filling:

• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, chilled

• 2 tbsp powdered sugar (adjust to taste)

• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

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🥣 Preparation

1. Prepare the Pastry Layers
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Unfold the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface and cut it into 3-inch (7–8 cm) circles using a round cutter. Arrange them on the tray, leaving space between each piece.

2. Egg Wash & Bake
Whisk the egg with 1 tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of the pastry rounds lightly. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown. Allow them to cool completely before filling.

3. Make the Whipped Cream
In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Keep refrigerated until ready to use.

4. Assemble the Cream Puffs
Slice each baked pastry in half horizontally. Pipe or spoon a generous swirl of whipped cream onto the bottom half, then replace the top. Dust lightly with powdered sugar for a bakery-style finish.

🌿 Serving & Storage

Serve these cream puffs fresh the same day for the best texture — the contrast between crisp pastry and airy cream is most delightful when newly assembled. If needed, you can bake the pastry shells a day ahead and store them in an airtight container; fill them just before serving.

✨ Conclusion

These Italian Cream Puffs are more than a dessert — they’re a small celebration of craftsmanship, flavor, and beauty. Whether enjoyed with a cup of espresso or shared at a family gathering, they never fail to impress. Golden layers, a silky vanilla filling, and a touch of powdered sugar make them a timeless treat that feels both luxurious and comforting.