Name: Pumpkin Cream Puffs: Irresistibly Light and Festive Treats
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 1 sheet Puff Pastry (Thawed); 1 large Egg (For egg wash); 1 tablespoon Milk (For egg wash); 1 tablespoon Cinnamon Sugar (For sprinkling); 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream (Cold); 1/4 cup Powdered Sugar; 1 teaspoon Cinnamon; 1/2 cup Pumpkin Puree (Canned or homemade)

As I rummaged through my pantry one crisp autumn afternoon, a can of pumpkin puree caught my eye, lighting a spark of inspiration. That moment led me to create these Easy Pumpkin Cream Puffs, which have since become a staple at my Thanksgiving table. These light and airy pastries are the perfect marriage of flaky puff pastry and a rich, whipped pumpkin filling—a delightful comfort food twist that captures the essence of the season. Not only are they quick to prepare, allowing you to whip up a stunning dessert in no time, but they also provide a sophisticated addition to any gathering that will impress your guests. Curious about how to make this festive treat that’s destined to steal the show? Let’s dive in!

Why Are Pumpkin Cream Puffs a Must-Try?

Delightfully Simple: The straightforward steps ensure that even novice bakers can create these stunning desserts without a hitch.

Festive Flavor Fusion: These cream puffs marry the comforting essence of pumpkin with warm cinnamon, capturing all the flavors of fall in each bite.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect at Thanksgiving gatherings, these pastries are sure to impress friends and family, making them the highlight of your spread.

Quick Yet Impressive: Utilizing thawed puff pastry saves time while delivering delightful, gourmet results that look like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Versatile Whisper of Creativity: Feel free to customize the whipped filling; try adding a touch of maple extract for a unique twist, or serve alongside coffee or tea for an afternoon delight.

Perfect Make-Ahead Dessert: Prepare ahead and chill to achieve optimal texture, making them a fabulous choice for busy hosts! For more festive inspirations, check out my Strawberries Cream Cake that also brings a wow factor to your table.

Pumpkin Cream Puffs Ingredients

For the Pastry
• Puff Pastry – Use a thawed sheet for easy handling and a wonderfully flaky texture.
• Egg – Helps achieve a golden glaze on the puff pastry for that perfect finish.
• Milk – Mix with the egg; it enhances the glaze and can be any type you prefer.
• Cinnamon Sugar – Sprinkle on top for added sweetness and a hint of spice that complements our pumpkin cream puffs.

For the Filling
• Heavy Whipping Cream – Use cold cream to achieve magnificent, fluffy peaks in your whipped filling.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the whipped cream delicately; it prevents any graininess in texture.
• Cinnamon – A warm spice that enriches the filling and brings out the comforting pumpkin flavor.
• Pumpkin Puree – The star of the show, lending that classic pumpkin essence to our luscious filling; you can use canned or homemade varieties for convenience.

Get ready to transform your kitchen into a pumpkin paradise with these delightful ingredients!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Cream Puffs

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure your pumpkin cream puffs bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan. A properly prepared baking sheet is crucial for achieving that perfect, golden-brown pastry finish.

Step 2: Roll and Cut Puff Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, take the thawed puff pastry and roll it out gently to maintain its flakiness. Cut the pastry into six equal rectangles, each about three inches wide. This step is essential for creating the delightful shape of your pumpkin cream puffs that will hold the delicious filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk together one egg and a splash of milk to create an egg wash. Using a pastry brush, generously apply this mixture to each rectangle of puff pastry. This wash will give your pastries a beautifully golden glaze that enhances their visual appeal once baked.

Step 4: Add Cinnamon Sugar
Sprinkle a blend of cinnamon sugar over the brushed pastry rectangles, ensuring an even coating. This not only sweetens the pumpkin cream puffs but adds a fragrant spice that complements the creamy filling. The sugar will caramelize during baking, creating a delightful crispiness on top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the prepared baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on the pastries as they rise and turn golden brown. The puff pastry should be light and airy, signaling that your Pumpkin Cream Puffs are ready to come out of the oven.

Step 6: Cool the Pastries
Once baked, transfer the pumpkin cream puffs to a cooling rack and allow them to cool completely. This cooling step is vital, as it will help the pastry maintain its structure when you fill it. You want to avoid steaming the filling later on, so patience here pays off.

Step 7: Whip the Cream Filling
While the pastries cool, begin whipping together the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and cinnamon in a mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture forms stiff peaks, indicating the cream is ready. Folding in the pumpkin puree next will create that luscious, spiced filling for your pumpkin cream puffs.

Step 8: Assemble the Cream Puffs
Carefully slice each cooled pastry in half and pipe the pumpkin whipped cream into the bottom half. Don’t skimp on the filling—each puff should be generously filled to ensure a balanced bite. Place the top half back on to complete your delightful pumpkin cream puffs.

Step 9: Chill and Serve
For the best texture and flavor, place the assembled pumpkin cream puffs in the refrigerator to chill before serving. This helps the filling set beautifully and melds the flavors together. Allow them to chill for at least 30 minutes, and then they’ll be ready to impress your guests!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Cream Puffs

Fridge: Store the assembled pumpkin cream puffs in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. This helps maintain their freshness while keeping the pastry crisp.

Freezer: It’s best to avoid freezing the cream puffs once assembled, as the filling may become watery upon thawing. However, unbaked puff pastry can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Reheating: If you have leftover unfilled puff pastries, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their flakiness.

Chill Before Serving: For optimal texture and flavor, refrigerate the filled pumpkin cream puffs for at least 30 minutes before serving; this allows the filling to set beautifully.

What to Serve with Easy Pumpkin Cream Puffs

Indulging in these delightfully airy pastries creates the perfect opportunity to build an inviting, festive meal.

Cranberry Sauce: A tangy contrast to the sweet cream puffs, this classic Thanksgiving staple adds a zesty touch to your dessert table.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The luscious creaminess of vanilla ice cream pairs exquisitely with the spiced pumpkin filling, offering a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
Whipped Cream Topping: For a touch of elegance, a dollop of fluffy whipped cream enhances the cream puffs while maintaining their airy charm.
Apple Cider: Sip on warm apple cider to complement the flavors of pumpkin and spice; it brings a nostalgic feel to your holiday gathering.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Elevate your dessert experience by serving these cream puffs alongside a cozy pumpkin spice latte, enhancing the seasonal flavors.
Pecan Pie: For a taste of traditional Thanksgiving, pair with rich pecan pie; its nutty crunch provides a delightful contrast to the soft cream puffs.
Spiced Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of spiced hot chocolate beautifully balances the sweet, flaky cream puffs, making every bite an indulgent treat.
Fall Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad featuring apples, pears, and pomegranate seeds offers a refreshing contrast, lightening up the dessert experience.
Chai Tea: A warm cup of chai tea, with its beautifully spiced flavor, pairs harmoniously with the pumpkin cream puffs, evoking a comforting atmosphere.
Nutmeg Spritz Cookies: Add a dainty touch with these spiced cookies that echo the warm flavors of the pumpkin cream puffs, creating a cohesive dessert platter.

Expert Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Cream Puffs

Chill Your Ingredients: Make sure your heavy whipping cream is cold before whipping. Cold cream increases its volume for a luscious filling.
Watch the Baking Time: Overbaking can lead to dry pastries. Keep an eye on them for that golden-brown color, typically 15-20 minutes.
Allow Cooling: Let the baked pastries cool completely before filling. This prevents sogginess and helps maintain the perfect cream puff texture.
Fill Generously: Don’t be shy with the pumpkin filling! Ensure each puff is filled with enough whipped cream to create a balanced and delicious treat.
Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble your pumpkin cream puffs ahead of time and chill them for optimal texture and flavor. They’re best enjoyed cold!

Pumpkin Cream Puffs Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to put your personal spin on these delightful pumpkin cream puffs for a unique twist!

Sweet Potato Swap: Replace pumpkin puree with sweet potato puree for a slightly sweeter flavor profile. This swap brings a lovely earthiness to the cream filling, making it a fun variation that’s just as festive.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream for a creamy texture that’s entirely dairy-free. Just chill the coconut cream overnight, then whip it for a light, luscious filling that adds a tropical flair!
Maple Flavor Boost: Incorporate a teaspoon of maple extract into the whipped cream filling for a sweet, aromatic twist. This subtle addition enhances the fall flavor, making every bite feel cozy and indulgent.
Choco-Drizzle Indulgence: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of your filled cream puffs for a rich, decadent finish. The combination of chocolate and pumpkin is a match made in dessert heaven!
Nutty Texture: Fold in finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts into the whipped cream for an added layer of crunch. The nuts bring a delightful texture contrast to the soft, fluffy filling.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely diced jalapeño to the pumpkin filling for a surprising hint of heat. This is a fun twist that will leave your guests pleasantly surprised!
Apple Cinnamon Fusion: Introduce a spoonful of apple pie filling inside the cream puffs along with the pumpkin cream for a delicious apple-pumpkin combination. It’s a flavor explosion perfect for autumn gatherings!
Cinnamon Roll Inspiration: Dust the cream puffs with a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving for that classic cinnamon roll flavor. It enhances the aroma and elevates the dessert experience.

For another fabulous dessert idea, consider trying my Coconut Cream Pancakes which also celebrate the wonderful flavors of the season!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Pumpkin Cream Puffs are perfect for meal prep and can save you invaluable time during the bustling Thanksgiving season! You can make the puff pastry shells up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake them, then let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. For the whipped pumpkin filling, it’s best to prepare that the day you plan to serve the cream puffs, but you can whip the cream and fold in the pumpkin puree several hours beforehand and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to assemble, just slice the cooled pastries, pipe in the filling, and chill briefly to achieve that perfect texture. These little preparations will keep your Thanksgiving dessert stress-free and just as delicious!

Pumpkin Cream Puffs Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using 100% pure pumpkin puree, which is often found in cans in the baking aisle. Look for a brand with no added sugars or spices, as this will allow you to control the sweetness and seasonings in your filling. If you prefer a homemade touch, you can roast and puree fresh pumpkin, just make sure it’s well-cooked and smooth for the best results!

How should I store my pumpkin cream puffs?
You can store assembled pumpkin cream puffs in an airtight container in the fridge for about 2-3 days. This keeps them fresh while maintaining the pastry’s crisp texture. Just remember, the longer they sit, the softer the pastry may become—but they’ll still taste delicious!

Can I freeze pumpkin cream puffs?
It’s best to avoid freezing the assembled pumpkin cream puffs, as the whipped filling can become watery when thawed. However, if you have leftover unbaked puff pastry, you can freeze that for up to 1 month. To do this, wrap the pastry tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking!

What if my puff pastry doesn’t rise properly?
Oh no, that can happen! If your puff pastry doesn’t rise, it might be due to the oven temperature not being hot enough or not rolling out the pastry thin enough. Make sure your oven is preheated to 375°F (190°C) and check that the puff pastry is cold when placing it in the oven. Also, ensure there are no tears in the dough that could let steam escape. A little patient practice will surely have you making perfect puffs in no time!

Are these cream puffs suitable for people with dairy allergies?
Great question! These cream puffs contain heavy whipping cream and egg, which do pose safety concerns for those with dairy allergies. For a dairy-free alternative, I suggest using coconut cream whipped until fluffy as a substitute for the whipped filling. Just make sure to check that your puff pastry is also dairy-free, or you may want to explore recipes specifically designed for dairy-free pastries.

How long can I keep my cream puffs in the fridge?
Once assembled, you should enjoy them within 2-3 days to ensure peak freshness and flavor. After that, the pastry may lose its delightful crispness, but the filling will remain delicious. If you notice any sogginess, don’t worry, just give them a little gentle puff-puff before serving!