Flaky, buttery pastry layered with luscious cream filling and dusted with powdered sugar – Easy Cream Puff Cake is the dessert you didn’t know you were missing. This indulgent treat takes all the magic of cream puffs and transforms them into a sliceable, crowd-pleasing cake that melts in your mouth.

Imagine layers of crisp, golden puff pastry sandwiching a cloud-like vanilla cream, creating the perfect balance of textures. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself, this cake delivers a bakery-worthy experience without the fuss.

What Kind of Puff Pastry Should I Use?

For Easy Cream Puff Cake, store-bought frozen puff pastry works beautifully. Look for all-butter varieties if you want extra flavor and flakiness. Just be sure to thaw it properly before baking so it puffs up light and airy.

Ingredients for the Easy Cream Puff Cake

Puff Pastry Sheets: The star of the show, giving the cake its signature crispy layers.
Heavy Cream: Whipped to stiff peaks, this creates a rich, airy filling.
Vanilla Pudding Mix: Adds sweetness and stability to the cream layer.
Whole Milk: Used to prepare the pudding and help blend it into the whipped cream.
Powdered Sugar: Lightly dusted on top for a pretty finish and touch of sweetness.

How To Make the Easy Cream Puff Cake

Step 1: Bake the Puff Pastry

Preheat your oven according to the puff pastry package instructions. Roll out the pastry sheets and place them on parchment-lined baking sheets. Prick them lightly with a fork to prevent excessive puffing and bake until golden and crisp. Let them cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Filling

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and whole milk until thickened. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until smooth and fluffy.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

Place one puff pastry sheet on a serving platter. Spread half of the cream filling evenly over it. Add the second puff pastry sheet and spread the remaining cream over the top. Finish with the final pastry sheet.

Step 4: Chill and Finish

Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 1 hour to set. Before serving, dust generously with powdered sugar for a bakery-worthy touch.

Serving and Storing Easy Cream Puff Cake

Serve the Easy Cream Puff Cake chilled, slicing it carefully with a serrated knife to preserve the delicate layers. It’s perfect as a light dessert after a hearty meal or as an elegant addition to a dessert table. Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container; it will stay fresh for up to 3 days, though the pastry is crispiest on the first day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the pastry from getting soggy?

Make sure the pastry cools completely before assembling, and chill the finished cake to keep layers firm.

Can I use homemade pastry?

Absolutely! Homemade puff pastry or pâte à choux works wonderfully if you have the time and skill.

What can I use instead of pudding mix?

You can make a homemade pastry cream or custard if you prefer a from-scratch filling.

How long does it need to chill?

At least one hour, but overnight is even better for easy slicing and flavor melding.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it a few hours before serving and keep it chilled until ready.

Want More Dessert Ideas?

You might also like the Apple Enchiladas: A Sweet and Comforting Treat for a warm, spiced option. Or try Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries for a playful, bite-sized dessert.

For something rich and chocolatey, check out the Indulgent Chocolate Chess Pie or go fancy with Homemade Flaky Croissants if you’re in the mood for a baking project.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

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If you make it, I’d love to know how it went. Did you swap in a flavored pudding? Try a fruit topping? Drop a comment below – I’m always curious how you put your own spin on it.

Easy Cream Puff Cake

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 8–10 servings

Print Recipe

Description

A stunning no-fuss dessert that layers flaky puff pastry with velvety vanilla cream, finished with a dusting of powdered sugar. Easy Cream Puff Cake is perfect for special occasions or a sweet weekend treat.

Ingredients

3 sheets puff pastry, thawed

2 cups heavy cream

1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix

1 ½ cups whole milk

Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

Preheat oven to package directions and bake puff pastry sheets on parchment-lined baking sheets, pricking them with a fork. Bake until golden and cool completely.
Whisk vanilla pudding mix with milk until thick. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks.
Fold whipped cream into pudding mixture until smooth.
Layer: Place one pastry sheet on a platter, spread half the cream, top with second pastry, spread remaining cream, finish with final pastry sheet.
Chill for at least 1 hour. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Desserts