Easy Cream Puff Cake

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When you combine the crisp, golden layers of puff pastry with a creamy, vanilla-kissed filling and a dusting of powdered sugar, magic happens. This Easy Cream Puff Cake is everything you love about classic cream puffs, reimagined in a decadent, fuss-free sheet cake form. It’s the kind of dessert that looks impressive but takes minimal effort — perfect for both weeknight cravings and elegant entertaining.

Each bite delivers that irresistible contrast of flaky pastry and smooth, cloud-like filling. It’s rich yet airy, with just the right amount of sweetness. And because it’s assembled in a pan, there’s no need to fuss with piping or shaping. Just layer, chill, and slice your way to dessert heaven.

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What Kind of Puff Pastry Should I Use?

Frozen puff pastry sheets are the real MVP here. Choose a high-quality brand with real butter if possible, as it makes a difference in flavor and flakiness. You’ll want to thaw the sheets according to package directions, then bake them until deeply golden and crisp before layering.

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Ingredients for the Easy Cream Puff Cake

Puff Pastry Sheets
The backbone of this dessert — light, flaky, and buttery. They form the top and bottom “crusts” of the cake.

Heavy Whipping Cream
Whipped into soft peaks to create a luscious, airy filling that mimics the interior of a classic cream puff.

Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix
Adds flavor, structure, and sweetness to the whipped cream filling, making it stable and sliceable.

Whole Milk
Used to mix with the pudding — whole milk ensures a creamy, rich texture.

Cream Cheese (optional)
For a tangy twist and extra richness in the filling.

Powdered Sugar
A generous dusting over the top gives this cake its signature look and a touch of sweetness.

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How To Make the Easy Cream Puff Cake

Step 1: Bake the Puff Pastry Layers

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Unfold your thawed puff pastry sheets and place them on the prepared sheets. Use a fork to prick them all over to prevent puffing. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until deeply golden and crisp. Let them cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the instant vanilla pudding mix and whole milk. Whisk until smooth and thickened. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to soft peaks. If using cream cheese, beat it until smooth and add it to the pudding mixture. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until fully combined and fluffy.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

Place one baked puff pastry sheet in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the cream filling evenly over the base. Top with the second pastry sheet. Press gently to secure the layers.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the layers to meld and the filling to firm up. Right before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar for a classic finish. Slice with a sharp knife for clean edges and serve chilled.

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Serving and Storing Your Easy Cream Puff Cake

This cake is best served cold, straight from the fridge, when the cream filling is at its fluffiest and the puff pastry still holds a bit of crunch. It makes a beautiful dessert centerpiece and can be sliced easily into clean, elegant portions. Pair it with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate for an elevated twist.

To store leftovers, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The pastry layers will soften over time, but the flavor remains delicious. Avoid freezing, as the cream filling doesn’t thaw well.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far ahead can I make this cake?

You can assemble the cake up to 24 hours in advance. In fact, chilling overnight improves the texture and flavor.

Can I use homemade puff pastry?

Yes, if you have the time and skill! Just ensure it’s baked thoroughly and cooled before layering.

What if I don’t have instant pudding mix?

You can make a homemade pastry cream instead, but allow extra time for cooking and cooling.

Is the cream filling stable enough for outdoor events?

It holds well for a few hours in cool weather. For summer picnics, keep it chilled in a cooler until serving.

Can I add fruit inside the layers?

Absolutely. Sliced strawberries, bananas, or even peaches pair beautifully with the creamy filling and puff pastry.

How do I cut it without making a mess?

Use a serrated knife and a gentle sawing motion. Wipe the blade between slices for neat edges.

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Want More Dessert Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Easy Cream Puff Cake, you’ll probably enjoy these other irresistible creations:

• Condensed Milk Snow Cookies for a melt-in-your-mouth treat with minimal ingredients.
• Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups bursting with tangy fruit and creamy layers.
• Caramel Cheesecake Cookies that combine rich caramel flavor with cheesecake softness.
• Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow if you’re craving a no-bake snackable twist on a classic.
• Mom’s Famous Cream Puffs for another puff-pastry favorite with nostalgic flair.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add fruit between the layers? Try a flavored pudding mix?

I love seeing how others customize these creations. Questions are always welcome too — let’s make sweet memories together.

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