Nutella Strawberry Cream Puffs
Nutella Strawberry Cream Puffs are a delightful treat that combines light, airy pastry shells with a creamy Nutella filling and fresh, juicy strawberries. The contrast between the soft puff and…
By Ava
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Reading time: 6 min
Tip: save now, make later.
Nutella Strawberry Cream Puffs are a delightful treat that combines light, airy pastry shells with a creamy Nutella filling and fresh, juicy strawberries. The contrast between the soft puff and the smooth, rich chocolate-hazelnut spread makes every bite feel special and satisfying. The strawberries add a fresh, sweet pop that balances the flavors perfectly.
I love making these cream puffs when friends come over because they’re such a fun, impressive dessert that doesn’t take forever to put together. One of my favorite tips is to make sure the pastry shells are fully cool before filling them, so the cream stays nice and fluffy. Also, you can play around with adding a little powdered sugar on top for an extra touch of sweetness and a pretty finish.
These cream puffs are perfect for a weekend treat or a special occasion where you want something light but still feel like a dessert. I often serve them with a cup of tea or coffee, and people always ask for the recipe. There’s something really joyful about biting into a cream puff filled with Nutella and strawberries, and I think that little bit of happiness is what makes them so memorable.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the base of your cream puffs. It’s flaky and light. You can buy it frozen to save time. If unavailable, phyllo dough can work but will be less puffy.
Nutella: The star spread here. For a dairy-free option, use a hazelnut chocolate spread made without milk. Peanut butter mixed with honey can be a fun twist too.
Heavy Whipping Cream: Whipped cream adds softness and creaminess. For a lighter option, use whipped coconut cream. Make sure it’s chilled well before whipping.
Strawberries: Fresh and juicy strawberries give freshness and sweetness. If strawberries aren’t in season, raspberries or sliced kiwi can be tasty alternatives.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate: Used for drizzle and extra flavor. Dark chocolate or milk chocolate can work too, based on your sweetness preference.
How Do You Bake Puff Pastry So It’s Perfectly Flaky and Puffy?
Getting puff pastry just right is key. Here’s how to get it beautifully golden and crispy:
- Keep it cold: Work quickly and keep pastry chilled until ready to bake. Cold layers create puffiness when baking.
- Even thickness: Roll it out evenly to avoid uneven cooking or flat spots.
- No overcrowding: Give each piece space on the baking sheet for air to circulate; this helps puffing up.
- Bake hot & fast: A hot oven (about 400°F) helps the layers rise quickly.
- Cool completely: Let puff pastry cool fully before slicing and filling to keep it crisp.
Following these tips will give your cream puffs that classic light, flaky feel that pairs wonderfully with Nutella and strawberries.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – for even baking and to hold all the puff pastry squares without crowding.
- Parchment paper – prevents sticking and helps with easy cleanup.
- Mixing bowl – to whip the heavy cream to soft peaks smoothly.
- Electric mixer or whisk – makes whipping cream faster and fluffy every time.
- Sharp knife – to carefully slice the puff pastry squares in half without smashing them.
- Microwave-safe bowl – for melting the chocolate quickly and evenly.
- Spoon or small piping bag – to fill and decorate the cream puffs neatly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap Nutella for peanut butter or almond butter for a nutty twist that pairs well with strawberries.
- Add fresh blueberries or raspberries for a different berry flavor and added color.
- Mix a little cinnamon or orange zest into the whipped cream for a warm or citrusy note.
- Try adding chopped toasted hazelnuts on top for crunch and extra hazelnut flavor.
Nutella Strawberry Cream Puffs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Puff Pastry and Filling:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 1 cup Nutella spread
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced (plus extra whole strawberries for garnish)
- 2 ounces semi-sweet chocolate (for drizzle)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prep and assemble, plus 12-15 minutes baking time, and a short cooling period. You’ll have these tasty cream puffs ready in under an hour from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Bake the Puff Pastry:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to even thickness and cut into 3×3 inch squares. Place the squares on the baking sheet, leaving room between each. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden and puffed. Remove and let cool completely.
2. Make the Whipped Cream:
While the puff pastry cools, whip the heavy cream in a chilled bowl with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. If the Nutella is difficult to spread, warm it slightly for easier spreading.
3. Assemble the Cream Puffs:
Carefully slice each puff pastry square in half horizontally. Spread a generous layer of Nutella on each bottom half. Add a layer of sliced strawberries over the Nutella, then top with a dollop or pipe of whipped cream. Place the puff pastry tops over the whipped cream. Melt the semi-sweet chocolate in short bursts in the microwave until smooth, then drizzle over the cream puffs. Dust with powdered sugar, and garnish each with a whole strawberry on top.
Serve immediately or chill briefly for best taste and enjoy your delicious, flaky Nutella Strawberry Cream Puffs!
Can I Use Frozen Puff Pastry?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it fully in the fridge overnight before rolling it out. This helps ensure even baking and puffing.
How Do I Store Leftover Cream Puffs?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the pastry crisp, try to assemble them just before serving.
Can I Substitute Strawberries with Other Fruits?
Absolutely! Raspberries, blueberries, or sliced kiwi all work great and add a different flavor twist to this dessert.
Is There a Dairy-Free Alternative for the Whipped Cream?
Yes! You can use chilled coconut cream whipped up just like heavy cream for a dairy-free option that’s still light and creamy.