As I stood in my kitchen, the scent of nutmeg and cinnamon wafting through the air, I realized the holidays had truly arrived. There’s something undeniably magical about creating a batch of Eggnog Cream Puffs that captures the essence of the season. These delightful treats combine a light, airy choux pastry with a rich, spiced eggnog filling, making them a perfect centerpiece for your holiday gatherings. Not only are they quick to whip up, but their impressive appearance will have your friends and family swooning! Plus, with easy substitutions for dairy-free options, everyone can enjoy this festive delight. Ready to bring a little magic to your holiday table? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!

Why are Eggnog Cream Puffs a Must-Try?

Joyful baking experience: Crafting these Eggnog Cream Puffs is a delightful way to embrace the holiday spirit with loved ones.

Indulgent flavor: The spiced eggnog filling paired with light choux offers a rich yet comforting sweetness that feels festive.

Visual showstopper: With a beautiful presentation, these treats will impress guests at any holiday gathering, ensuring your dessert table shines.

Customizable options: Whether you prefer a dusting of powdered sugar or cocoa, this recipe adapts to your taste and dietary needs. For a variety of flavors, check out my Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream or Cupcakes Maple Cream.

Quick and easy: Despite their elegant look, these puffs are simple to prepare, making them a great choice for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike.

Get ready to fall in love with every delicious bite of these holiday treats!

Eggnog Cream Puff Ingredients

For the Choux Pastry
• Water – Essential for creating steam in the choux pastry, giving it that airy texture.
• Unsalted Butter – Provides flavor and moisture; using unsalted allows for better control over the overall saltiness.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the choux and helps with that lovely browning.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of your pastry.
• All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the choux pastry so it puffs beautifully.
• Eggs – Help the choux rise and create a rich filling.

For the Pastry Cream
• Full Fat Eggnog – The star flavor for the pastry cream; opting for full-fat enhances richness.
• Whole Milk – Adds creaminess to the filling, balancing the spiced eggnog flavor.
• Cornstarch – Thickens the pastry cream for a smooth and creamy texture.
• Egg Yolks – Increase richness and add a delightful creaminess to the filling.
• Unsalted Butter (for pastry cream) – Ensures a smooth, creamy consistency in your eggnog filling.
• Vanilla Extract – Boosts the flavor, making your eggnog cream even more enticing.
• Ground Nutmeg – A classic holiday spice that beautifully enhances the eggnog flavor.

For the Whipped Cream
• Heavy Cream – Whipped until stiff peaks form to lighten the eggnog pastry cream.
• Powdered Sugar – Used for sweetening the whipped cream and for a touch of elegance dusted on top before serving.

Feel free to customize your eggnog cream puffs with toppings like powdered sugar or cocoa powder for an extra festive flair!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Eggnog Cream Puffs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the choux pastry from sticking. This preparation ensures an even bake for your Eggnog Cream Puffs, allowing them to rise beautifully and achieve that golden-brown hue.

Step 2: Prepare Choux Pastry
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of water, 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, remove the pan from heat and stir in 1 cup of all-purpose flour quickly. Return the pan to low heat for 1-2 minutes until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs
Allow the choux pastry mixture to cool for about 5 minutes. Then, add 4 large eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly with a wooden spoon or spatula until the dough becomes glossy and elastic. This step is vital for creating the perfect airy texture, so be sure each egg is fully integrated before adding the next.

Step 4: Pipe Pastry
Transfer the choux pastry to a piping bag fitted with a large round tip. Pipe small rounds, about 1.5 inches in diameter, onto the lined baking sheets, leaving space between each puff. If there are any peaks, smooth them down gently with a wet finger. This technique helps achieve that classic egg-shaped look for your Eggnog Cream Puffs.

Step 5: Bake
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 10-12 minutes. After that, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 18-20 minutes or until the cream puffs are golden brown and crisp. Avoid opening the oven door during baking to maintain the steam needed for rising.

Step 6: Make Pastry Cream
While the puffs are baking, prepare the eggnog pastry cream. In a saucepan, heat 1 cup of full-fat eggnog and 1/2 cup of whole milk over medium heat. In a separate bowl, whisk together 4 egg yolks, 1/3 cup of granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch until smooth. Gradually pour the hot eggnog mixture into the yolk mixture, then return to the saucepan, stirring constantly until thickened.

Step 7: Add Flavorings
Once thickened, remove the pastry cream from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Set the mixture aside to cool. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator while the puffs cool completely.

Step 8: Whip Cream
In a mixing bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. This step adds lightness to the eggnog pastry cream, creating a fluffy filling. Make sure not to overbeat, as you want to maintain a smooth texture that complements the rich choux.

Step 9: Fill Puffs
Once the baked choux pastries have cooled completely, use a piping bag to fill each puff with the chilled eggnog pastry cream. Take your time to fill them generously without overstuffing. Dust the filled Eggnog Cream Puffs with powdered sugar or cocoa powder for an elegant touch before serving, ensuring they look as delightful as they taste.

Tips for the Best Eggnog Cream Puffs

• Perfect Pastry Bake: Ensure the choux pastry is fully cooked for a light, airy texture. Dense puffs signal underbaking—look for that golden brown color!

• Chill Thoroughly: Allow the pastry cream to cool completely before filling the puffs. A warm cream can make the pastries soggy and lose their delightful crispness.

• Fill Just Before Serving: To maintain the integrity of your Eggnog Cream Puffs, fill them right before serving. This keeps them perfectly crisp and avoids excess moisture.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize the eggnog filling! Adding almond or coconut extracts can enhance the flavors and create a unique twist for your holiday gatherings.

• Smooth the Tops: When piping choux rounds, use a wet finger to smooth any peaks. This little trick helps achieve that perfectly rounded shape for an elegant presentation.

Make Ahead Options

These Eggnog Cream Puffs are a fantastic option for those busy holiday weeks! You can prepare the choux pastry up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Additionally, the eggnog pastry cream can be made ahead and kept chilled for up to 3 days, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. When it’s time to fill the puffs, make sure to pipe the eggnog cream into the cooled choux right before serving to keep them crisp. This way, you’ll have light and airy Eggnog Cream Puffs ready to impress your guests with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Eggnog Cream Puffs?

Experience the joy of creating a delightful holiday meal by pairing these charming treats with scrumptious sides and drinks.

Spiced Apple Cider: This warm beverage envelopes you in holiday aromas, enhancing the flavors of the creamy puffs.
Rich Hot Chocolate: A festive classic, its deep chocolatey notes create a comforting contrast to the eggnog sweetness.
Gingerbread Cookies: The spiced crunch of gingerbread adds a delightful texture and flavor that complements every bite of the cream puffs.
Cranberry Salad: A refreshing, sweet-tart salad brings a brightness to your holiday spread, balancing the rich eggnog flavors beautifully.
Pumpkin Soup: The creamy warmth of pumpkin soup provides a cozy starter that harmonizes with the spiced profile of the puffs.
Sugary Vanilla Ice Cream: Pairing each puff with a scoop of vanilla ice cream elevates the experience, adding cold creaminess to the festive treat.
Mulled Wine: This spiced wine drink warms the soul and enhances the ambiance of your holiday gathering, making it a perfect partner.
Coconut Macaroons: The chewy sweetness of these macaroons adds a lovely texture contrast, making every bite of the eggnog puffs even more enjoyable.
Chocolate Fondue: This fun interactive dessert allows guests to dip the puffs, adding a luscious chocolate experience to the festivity.
Peppermint Bark: As a sweet ending, this treat adds refreshing minty notes, beautifully finishing your dessert selection.

Eggnog Cream Puffs Variations

Customize your Eggnog Cream Puffs for a delightful twist with these variations that inspire your culinary creativity.

Dairy-Free: Substitute full-fat eggnog and whole milk with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk and coconut cream for a lactose-free treat.
Chocolate Lovers: Swap eggnog with chocolate eggnog or mix cocoa powder into your pastry cream for a rich, chocolatey version.
Festive Dusting: Try dusting with cocoa powder instead of powdered sugar for a bittersweet contrast that’s sure to impress your guests.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different extracts like hazelnut or rum to add a unique twist to your eggnog pastry cream.
Scent of Spice: Boost the holiday flavors by stirring in a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to the filling, creating a warming and aromatic experience.
Mini Puffs: Pipe smaller puffs for bite-sized treats perfect for holiday parties. They’re easier to pop in your mouth and are always a crowd-pleaser!
Fruit Fusion: Add a dollop of cranberry or raspberry puree in the middle of the cream for a fruity burst that brightens the palate.
Gourmet Touch: Top with candied pecans or walnuts for added crunch and a gourmet flair; the contrasts of textures will elevate each bite!

These options let you tailor each batch, ensuring everyone at your gathering finds their perfect sweet spot. And for more festive flavors, don’t miss out on my Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream or Cupcakes Maple Cream recipes!

Storage Tips for Eggnog Cream Puffs

Room Temperature: Eggnog Cream Puffs are best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, they can sit at room temperature for up to 1 hour before serving.

Fridge: Store filled puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To prevent sticking, place parchment paper between layers.

Freezer: Unfilled choux pastry can be frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispness before filling.

Reheating: If filled puffs are refrigerated, enjoy them chilled or allow them to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving for optimal texture.

Eggnog Cream Puffs Recipe FAQs

What type of eggs should I use for the choux pastry?
Absolutely, it’s best to use large eggs for your Eggnog Cream Puffs. They provide the right amount of moisture and richness needed for the choux pastry to rise beautifully. Ensure they’re at room temperature for optimal incorporation into the dough, as this helps the pastry to puff up nicely.

How should I store my filled Eggnog Cream Puffs?
To keep your Eggnog Cream Puffs fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Make sure to place parchment paper between layers to avoid them sticking together. They’re best enjoyed within this timeframe to maintain their delightful crispness!

Can I freeze the choux pastry? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze unfilled choux pastry for up to 1 month! To do this, first allow the baked puffs to cool completely. Then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Afterward, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispy texture.

What if my choux pastry doesn’t puff up?
Very! If your choux pastry fails to puff up, it’s often due to a couple of reasons. First, ensure that you properly boiled the mixture to create enough steam. If there’s too much moisture left in the dough before adding eggs, it can also lead to dense pastries. Be sure to allow the pastry dough to cool slightly before incorporating the eggs one at a time, mixing until the dough is shiny and elastic.

Are these Eggnog Cream Puffs suitable for those with dairy allergies?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free option, simply substitute the full-fat eggnog and butter with non-dairy alternatives like coconut milk or your favorite non-dairy cream. You can also use plant-based butter for the pastry. This way, everyone can enjoy this festive treat without compromising on flavor!