When it comes to creating a show-stopping dessert with minimal effort, few things compete with Strawberry Nutella Cream Puffs. These light, airy bites combine the timeless elegance of French choux pastry with the rich decadence of Nutella and the refreshing burst of fresh strawberries. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a luxurious treat, this easy-to-make dessert is sure to impress.

Unlike traditional profiteroles that are typically filled with vanilla pastry cream and topped with chocolate sauce, this version introduces a fun, flavorful twist. By layering whipped cream, Nutella, and juicy strawberries inside golden puffs, you get the perfect balance of texture and sweetness in every bite. Inspired by the classics but designed for modern cravings, this dessert brings a new level of joy to the table.

Cream puffs—also known as profiteroles—date back centuries and remain a staple in French pâtisserie. According to Wikipedia’s article on profiteroles, they’ve been enjoyed in various forms throughout Europe. The key element? The choux pastry, or pâte à choux, which puffs up beautifully when baked, creating a hollow center ideal for sweet fillings. You can learn more about the science behind this dough from Wikipedia’s guide on choux pastry. This recipe takes advantage of that classic structure but reinvents it with a playful flavor profile that includes hazelnut spread, vanilla whipped cream, and seasonal fruit.

If you’re new to baking or simply looking for something visually stunning yet manageable, this recipe is ideal. From birthdays to brunches, it’s a versatile dessert that’s as fun to assemble as it is to devour. And yes, they’re as dreamy as they sound.

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What Are Strawberry Nutella Cream Puffs?

Strawberry Nutella Cream Puffs are a playful fusion of two indulgent dessert components: light and airy choux pastry filled with a luscious combination of whipped cream, Nutella, and fresh strawberries. These puffs strike the perfect balance between classic French technique and modern flavor appeal, offering a delicious contrast of textures and tastes in every bite.

The base of this dessert is choux pastry, a unique dough that relies on steam to puff up during baking. This technique results in a crisp outer shell with a hollow center, ideal for sweet or savory fillings. As described in Wikipedia’s article on choux pastry, this dough has been used for centuries in dishes like éclairs, cream puffs, and gougères. What makes this recipe stand out is the introduction of Nutella, the beloved chocolate-hazelnut spread with a rich history dating back to Italy (Nutella on Wikipedia).

Layered with vanilla-scented whipped cream and slices of juicy strawberries, these cream puffs become more than just a pastry—they transform into a celebration of flavor and freshness. While traditional profiteroles often use chocolate glaze or ice cream fillings, this variation leans into a more vibrant and fruity direction, perfect for spring and summer entertaining.

To elevate your presentation, consider checking out Pinterest’s dessert plating inspiration, which offers visual guides for serving cream puffs in creative ways. You’ll see how a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of extra Nutella can take your dish from simple to spectacular.

Whether served as an elegant dessert or a fun afternoon treat, Strawberry Nutella Cream Puffs offer a unique twist on a culinary classic—easy to prepare, hard to resist, and absolutely unforgettable.

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Ingredient List & Substitutions

Creating Strawberry Nutella Cream Puffs at home is surprisingly simple when you break down the components. Each element contributes to the final dessert’s light texture, rich flavor, and vibrant appearance. Below is a complete ingredient list, along with smart substitutions to fit dietary needs or pantry limitations.

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Choux Pastry Ingredients:

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

This dough is the foundation of any good cream puff. The combination of butter, water, and flour creates a thick paste that transforms into hollow puffs when baked. For deeper insight into this pastry type, check out Wikipedia’s article on profiteroles, where variations are explored in detail.

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Filling Ingredients:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup Nutella
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced

The filling is where the magic happens. Nutella adds a nutty richness that contrasts beautifully with the lightness of whipped cream and the tart sweetness of strawberries. Fresh fruit is ideal here, though if out of season, frozen strawberries can be used—just be sure to thaw and drain them well.

For those with dietary preferences, there are great alternatives:

• Swap Nutella with a homemade chocolate-hazelnut spread or almond butter with cocoa. For inspiration, browse Pinterest’s Nutella alternatives.
• Use coconut cream in place of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
• Try gluten-free flour blends if avoiding wheat—look for one that supports pastry textures.

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Topping:

• Powdered sugar, for dusting

This finishing touch enhances the visual appeal and adds just the right hint of sweetness. You could also drizzle extra Nutella or garnish with shaved chocolate or mint leaves for added flair.

For a visual guide on how to garnish desserts like a pro, visit Pinterest’s dessert styling board. You’ll find ideas that elevate presentation while staying simple and elegant.

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By using a few high-quality ingredients and incorporating substitutions when needed, you can personalize these cream puffs to suit any taste or dietary need. It’s all about creating layers of flavor and texture that come together in every delicious bite.

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How to Make Perfect Choux Pastry from Scratch

What is Choux Pastry?

Choux pastry, or pâte à choux, is a classic French dough used in a variety of light, hollow pastries such as éclairs, profiteroles, and cream puffs. What sets it apart is that it relies on steam—not baking powder or yeast—to rise. This results in a crisp exterior and a hollow interior, perfect for filling with sweet or savory ingredients.

According to Wikipedia’s guide on choux pastry, the dough’s origins trace back to the 16th century and have evolved into a cornerstone of pâtisserie. While the technique may seem intimidating at first glance, it’s actually straightforward once you understand the basic principles. The process involves cooking the dough on the stovetop before baking, giving it the unique texture needed for puffs to rise properly in the oven.

Modern bakers continue to use choux pastry because it offers incredible versatility. From cream puffs to savory gougères, the dough adapts well to both sweet and salty applications. In this recipe, we lean into its sweet potential with a dreamy Strawberry Nutella filling, proving just how adaptable this pastry can be.

If you’re just getting started with this technique, take a look at Pinterest’s choux tutorials, which show beginner-friendly visuals and piping tips. Understanding the texture and look of correctly prepared choux dough can help avoid common issues like flat or soggy puffs.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create perfect choux pastry every time:

1. Melt the butter:
   In a medium saucepan, combine 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, 1 cup of water, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.
2. Add the flour:
   Quickly stir in 1 cup of all-purpose flour all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
3. Cool the dough:
   Let the dough rest for about 5 minutes. This is a crucial step—adding eggs too soon could cook them, ruining the texture.
4. Add the eggs one at a time:
   Beat in 4 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The final dough should be smooth, glossy, and slightly sticky.
5. Spoon or pipe onto baking sheet:
   Drop tablespoon-sized mounds of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them at least 2 inches apart.
6. Bake:
   Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until puffs are golden brown and firm to the touch.

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Pro Tips for Success

• Use a piping bag for evenly sized and shaped puffs.
• To prevent collapsed cream puffs, avoid opening the oven while baking.
• For a crisper shell, pierce the bottom of each puff after baking and return them to the oven for 5 minutes to dry.

Want to see how others troubleshoot common baking issues? Visit Pinterest’s beginner baking tips to get visual cues on texture and consistency.

Mastering choux pastry gives you access to dozens of elegant desserts, from éclairs to savory cheese puffs. And now, you’re ready to turn those perfect puffs into a dreamy Strawberry Nutella masterpiece.

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Baking the Puffs to Golden Perfection

Once your choux dough is piped or spooned onto the baking sheet, it’s time to transform those soft mounds into golden, airy puffs. The key to perfect puff pastry lies in the baking process—getting the heat and timing just right will ensure your puffs rise beautifully and maintain their shape.

Key Steps:

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C): A hot oven is essential to create the steam that makes the puffs rise.
• Use parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
• Space dough mounds 2 inches apart to allow for expansion.
• Bake for 25–30 minutes until puffs are golden brown and crisp.

For best results, resist the urge to open the oven while baking—this can cause them to collapse. Once done, transfer the puffs to a wire rack to cool completely.

For visual cues and techniques, Pinterest’s cream puff baking visuals are incredibly helpful, especially if you’re new to pastry-making.

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Making the Dreamy Strawberry Nutella Filling

The heart of this dessert lies in its creamy, fruity filling. This combination of whipped cream, fresh strawberries, and Nutella brings a luxurious texture and indulgent flavor to your finished puffs.

Whipping the Cream:

• Use cold cream and mixing tools to achieve stiff peaks.
• Beat 1 cup of heavy whipping cream with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
• Look for firm peaks that hold their shape—avoid overbeating.

Spreading the Nutella:

• Warm Nutella slightly for easier spreading. You can microwave it for a few seconds or stir it vigorously to loosen the texture.

Prepping the Strawberries:

• Use fresh, ripe strawberries, thinly sliced.
• For added sweetness, macerate the berries in a bit of sugar and lemon juice for 5–10 minutes.

According to Wikipedia’s strawberry article, this fruit is packed with antioxidants and flavor, making it the perfect contrast to the richness of Nutella. Pairing berries with whipped cream is also a time-tested favorite, as explained in the Wikipedia entry on whipped cream.

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Assembling the Cream Puffs

Now that all the components are ready, it’s time to bring it all together. This step is where the puffs truly become irresistible.

Assembly Instructions:

1. Slice each puff horizontally once cooled.
2. Spread a layer of Nutella on the bottom half.
3. Add a generous dollop of whipped cream.
4. Top with strawberry slices.
5. Replace the top half of the puff gently.
6. Dust with powdered sugar, or add an extra drizzle of Nutella for flair.

Want to go the extra mile? Explore Pinterest’s plating ideas for stunning presentation inspiration that’ll wow your guests or followers.

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Serving Ideas & Presentation Tips

How you present your cream puffs can elevate them from a casual treat to a stunning centerpiece.

Serving Suggestions:

• Dust with powdered sugar just before serving.
• Plate with fresh mint leaves, chocolate shavings, or a swirl of whipped cream.
• Serve on a tiered dessert tray or arrange on a wooden board for rustic charm.
• For events, try mini cream puffs as individual bite-sized treats.

For beautifully styled dessert ideas, check out Pinterest’s dessert board featuring cream puff towers and artistic plating techniques.

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Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These cream puffs are best enjoyed fresh but can be made ahead with the right strategy.

Storage Tips:

• Unfilled puffs can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days or frozen for 1 month.
• Filled cream puffs should be consumed within 24 hours.
• To avoid sogginess, store components separately and assemble just before serving.

Freezing choux pastry shells is a great time-saving hack—just re-crisp in the oven for a few minutes before filling.

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Strawberry Nutella Cream Puff Variations

Want to get creative? Here are some fun variations to customize this dessert:

• Mini cream puffs: Great for parties or gifting.
• Swap strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or bananas.
• Use flavored whipped creams—try cocoa, coffee, or citrus zest.
• Make a cream puff tower (croquembouche) drizzled in Nutella or chocolate.

You can find tons of creative takes on this dessert via Pinterest’s recipe board showcasing innovative cream puff presentations.

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FAQs about Cream Puffs and Strawberry Nutella Variations

Can cream puffs be made ahead of time?

Yes, but keep the filling and puffs separate until just before serving to maintain crispness.

Do cream puffs need to be refrigerated?

Filled puffs should be refrigerated and consumed within 24 hours. Unfilled shells can be stored at room temperature.

Can I use store-bought puff pastry instead of choux dough?

Not for this recipe. Choux pastry is unique and essential to cream puff structure.

How do I keep cream puffs from getting soggy?

Store shells separately and fill right before serving. Reheat in the oven to refresh texture.

What can I use instead of Nutella?

Try almond butter with cocoa, chocolate ganache, or any hazelnut spread. Browse Pinterest alternatives for ideas.

Are cream puffs the same as profiteroles?

Yes, they share the same base dough. The difference often lies in the filling and presentation, as Wikipedia explains.

Can I freeze strawberry cream puffs?

You can freeze unfilled shells. Do not freeze filled puffs, as the cream and strawberries will lose texture upon thawing.

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