This cream puff dessert delivers all the indulgent flavor of classic cream puffs without the fuss of piping and filling individual pastries. Baked in a single pan, it features a light, airy choux pastry crust topped with a rich chocolate cream layer, fluffy whipped topping, and a drizzle of chocolate and caramel. It’s an impressive yet approachable dessert that’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or special family meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe gives you bakery-style results using simple techniques and everyday ingredients. The choux pastry base bakes up crisp and hollow, creating the perfect foundation for a creamy filling. It can be made ahead of time, serves a crowd easily, and looks elegant without requiring advanced pastry skills. The balance of textures—light crust, smooth filling, and fluffy topping—makes every bite satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the choux pastry crust
1 cup water
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup all-purpose flour
4 large eggs, room temperature

For the filling
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
3 1/2 cups cold 2% milk
2 packages instant chocolate pudding mix (3.9 ounces each)

For the topping
8 ounces frozen whipped topping, thawed
1/4 cup chocolate ice cream topping
1/4 cup caramel ice cream topping
1/3 cup chopped almonds

Directions

In a large saucepan, bring the water and butter to a full boil over medium heat. Add the flour all at once and stir vigorously until the mixture forms a smooth ball that pulls away from the sides of the pan.

Remove the pan from the heat and let the dough rest for 5 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Continue mixing until the dough is smooth, glossy, and thick.

Spread the dough evenly into a greased 13×9-inch baking dish. Bake in a preheated 400°F oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the crust is puffed and golden brown.

Remove the pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack. Allow the crust to cool completely.

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the milk and pudding mix, beating until the filling is thick and creamy.

Spread the filling evenly over the cooled crust. Refrigerate for 20 minutes to allow it to set.

Spread the whipped topping evenly over the filling. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Just before serving, drizzle with chocolate and caramel toppings and sprinkle with chopped almonds.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 to 15 servings

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 to 35 minutes
Cooling and chilling time: about 1 hour
Total time: approximately 2 hours

Variations

You can change the flavor of the dessert by using different instant pudding mixes such as vanilla, banana, caramel, or butterscotch. For a lighter taste, use vanilla pudding and finish with a chocolate drizzle only. You can also substitute chopped nuts with toasted coconut or leave the topping plain for a simpler finish.

Storage/Reheating

Cover the dessert tightly with plastic wrap or transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. It keeps well for up to 3 to 4 days. This dessert is best served cold and does not require reheating. The crust will soften over time, but the flavor remains delicious.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert can be made a day in advance. Add the chocolate, caramel, and almond topping just before serving for the best appearance.

Why did my crust puff unevenly?

Choux pastry naturally puffs unevenly in a large pan. This is normal and does not affect the final texture once the filling is added.

Do I need to use an electric mixer?

An electric mixer makes incorporating the eggs easier, but a sturdy spoon and some effort will also work.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of frozen topping?

Yes, stabilized homemade whipped cream can be used, but it may soften faster than frozen whipped topping.

What type of pan works best?

A metal 13×9-inch baking pan works best for even baking and proper puffing.

Can I reduce the sweetness?

You can use less chocolate and caramel topping or choose a less sweet pudding flavor to balance the dessert.

Is this dessert served warm or cold?

This dessert is always served chilled for the best texture and flavor.

Can I freeze this dessert?

Yes, it can be frozen without the chocolate and caramel drizzle. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Why is my filling too thin?

Make sure the milk is cold and the pudding mix is instant. Beat until fully thickened before spreading.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe and bake it in a larger pan, adjusting the baking time slightly as needed.

Conclusion

This cream puff dessert is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients and classic techniques can create a show-stopping result. With its airy pastry base, creamy chocolate filling, and elegant topping, it’s a dessert that feels special while remaining easy to prepare. Whether for a celebration or a casual gathering, it’s sure to be a favorite.

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