Springtime Lemon Cream Puffs

Name: Springtime Lemon Cream Puffs
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12.0
Ingredients: 1 cup water; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 4 large eggs; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Light and airy, these Springtime Lemon Cream Puffs are the perfect sweet treat to celebrate the season. Filled with a luscious zesty lemon cream and topped with a dusting of powdered sugar, they offer a burst of refreshing flavor in every bite. Perfect for spring gatherings or a delightful afternoon snack, these cream puffs are sure to impress your guests and bring a touch of elegance to your dessert table.

Created by

Ainsley Harper

Last updated on 2025-11-27T08:37:47.122Z

Springtime is here, and what better way to celebrate than with these delightful cream puffs? Each bite is a little taste of sunshine, perfect for your spring gatherings.

The Perfect Spring Treat

Spring is a season of renewal, and what better way to celebrate than with these delightful Lemon Cream Puffs? Their light and airy texture perfectly complements the zesty filling, making them a standout dessert for any spring gathering. Whether it’s a garden party, a bridal shower, or simply a sunny afternoon tea with friends, these cream puffs will elevate the occasion.

Lemon is a quintessential spring flavor, bringing a freshness that can uplift any dish. The combination of bright lemon zest and juice in the cream filling not only tantalizes the taste buds but also enhances the overall experience. Moreover, the powdered sugar dusting adds a touch of sweetness, making each bite an exquisite delight.

Easy to Make at Home

One of the best aspects of these cream puffs is how easy they are to make. The choux pastry dough requires just a few simple ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your kitchen. This makes it a perfect recipe for both beginners and experienced bakers alike who want to impress without complicated techniques.

Additionally, whipping the lemon cream filling is a straightforward process that doesn’t take much time at all. This means you can prepare these delicious treats quickly, allowing more time for enjoying the company of your guests. Once you start making these Lemon Cream Puffs, they are sure to become a regular feature in your springtime dessert lineup.

Impress Your Guests

Presentation is key when it comes to desserts, and these Lemon Cream Puffs are as beautiful as they are tasty. Their golden exterior and fluffy filling create an eye-catching appearance that is sure to delight everyone at your table. A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds a professional touch, transforming them into an elegant treat that's perfect for special occasions.

Serving these cream puffs alongside fresh berries or a light fruit salad can enhance their appeal even further. This not only adds color and vibrancy to your dessert platter but also complements the lemon flavor beautifully. Your guests will undoubtedly be impressed by your culinary skills and the deliciousness of this springtime treat.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients to make this delightful treat.

For the Cream Puffs

1 cup water
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup all-purpose flour
4 large eggs
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Cream Filling

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to create perfect cream puffs.

Prepare the Cream Puff Dough

In a saucepan, combine water and butter. Bring to a boil and add flour and salt. Stir until combined and remove from heat. Let it cool slightly before adding eggs one at a time.

Bake the Cream Puffs

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Shape the dough into small balls on a baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes or until puffs are golden and hollow.

Make the Lemon Cream Filling

In a bowl, whip together the heavy cream, powdered sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

Assemble the Cream Puffs

Once cooled, fill each cream puff with the lemon cream filling and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Springtime Lemon Cream Puffs with friends and family!

Storage Tips

To maintain the freshness of your Lemon Cream Puffs, it’s best to fill them just before serving. However, the unfilled choux pastry can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This way, you can prepare the dough in advance and fill it with lemon cream when you are ready to serve.

If you have leftover filled cream puffs, store them in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 24 hours, but it’s essential to enjoy them sooner rather than later to savor their light texture and bold flavor.

Variations on the Recipe

While the lemon cream filling is a fantastic choice, you can easily customize your cream puffs with other flavors. Try substituting lemon with different citrus fruits like oranges or limes for a fresh twist. You can also explore fillings like chocolate mousse, vanilla pastry cream, or even seasonal fruit compotes for delightful new combinations.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with toppings. A drizzle of chocolate sauce, a sprinkle of crushed nuts, or even a dollop of whipped cream can add another layer of flavor and texture, making your cream puffs even more irresistible.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the cream puffs in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cream puffs a day ahead and fill them right before serving.

→ What can I substitute for lemon juice?

You can use lime juice or a fruit puree for a different flavor.