Chocolate and Cream Puff is a decadent dessert featuring layers of crisp pastry, rich chocolate, and silky cream. Topped with a drizzle of syrup and a dusting of powdered sugar, this treat offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors for any dessert lover.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You will love this dessert for its indulgent layers and the contrast between flaky pastry, smooth cream, and luscious chocolate. Despite its impressive appearance, this recipe is achievable at home and makes for an excellent centerpiece at gatherings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Puff pastry sheets
- Heavy cream
- Sugar
- Dark chocolate or chocolate ganache
- Vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Syrup (caramel or chocolate, for drizzling)
Directions
- Bake puff pastry sheets according to package instructions until golden and crisp. Cool completely.
- Whip heavy cream with sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Layer pastry, whipped cream, and melted chocolate or ganache. Repeat layers as desired.
- Top with additional pastry, drizzle with syrup, and dust with powdered sugar.
- Chill briefly before serving for best texture.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Add fruit: Include layers of fresh strawberries or raspberries.
- Nutty twist: Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts or almonds between layers.
- Coffee flavor: Add espresso powder to the cream for a mocha version.
Storage/reheating
Best enjoyed fresh. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The pastry may soften over time and lose its crispness.
FAQs
Can I make this in advance?
Prepare components separately and assemble just before serving.
What type of chocolate works best?
Dark chocolate or semisweet chocolate provide the best balance of sweetness.
Can I use store-bought whipped cream?
Yes, but freshly whipped cream offers better flavor and texture.
How do I keep the pastry crisp?
Assemble just before serving and avoid excessive moisture in the layers.
Can I freeze this dessert?
Freezing is not recommended as it affects texture.
Is puff pastry the same as phyllo dough?
No, puff pastry is richer and more buttery, while phyllo is thinner and crispier.
What syrup works best for drizzling?
Caramel or chocolate syrup are both excellent choices.
Can I add a custard layer?
Yes, pastry cream or custard can be layered for added richness.
Is this dessert overly sweet?
It has a balanced sweetness, but you can adjust sugar levels to taste.
What is the best way to cut this dessert?
Use a sharp serrated knife and slice gently to preserve the layers.
Conclusion
Chocolate and Cream Puff is an elegant, crowd-pleasing dessert that offers layers of indulgence. Its combination of crisp pastry, smooth cream, and rich chocolate ensures a memorable treat for any occasion.
PrintChocolate and Cream Puff
Chocolate and Cream Puff is a decadent layered dessert featuring crisp puff pastry, silky whipped cream, and rich chocolate, finished with a drizzle of syrup and a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 sheets puff pastry
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 oz dark chocolate or chocolate ganache
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- 2 tablespoons caramel or chocolate syrup (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and bake puff pastry sheets according to package instructions until golden and crisp. Let cool completely.
- Whip heavy cream with sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Layer pieces of pastry with whipped cream and melted chocolate or ganache. Repeat layers as desired.
- Top with final layer of pastry. Drizzle with syrup and dust with powdered sugar.
- Chill briefly before serving for best texture.
Notes
- Best assembled just before serving to maintain crisp pastry texture.
- Customize with fruit, nuts, or flavored creams for variation.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 1 day; pastry may soften.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg