Lemon Cream Puffs Recipe

Lemon Cream Puffs are a delightful dessert that combines the tanginess of lemon with a creamy, dreamy mousse filling. These little treats are perfect for anyone who loves a sweet and refreshing bite. With a graham cracker crust, a luscious lemon mousse, and a touch of white chocolate or candy melts, these puffs are sure to become a new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Cream Puffs offer a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, thanks to the lemony mousse filling and refreshing lemon curd. The graham cracker crust adds a delightful crunch, and the creamy texture from the mousse melts in your mouth. These puffs are simple to make and freeze well, so you can prepare them ahead of time for a party or a special treat. The combination of flavors and textures in every bite makes this dessert irresistibly delicious!

Ingredients

For the graham cracker crust base:

• 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs

• 2 tbsp melted butter

• 1 tbsp sugar

For the lemon mousse:

• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

• 1/2 cup lemon Greek yogurt (or lemon curd mixed with whipped cream)

• 1 tbsp powdered sugar

• 1/2 tsp lemon extract

• 1/4 cup lemon curd

For coating and garnish:

• 1 1/2 cups white chocolate or yellow candy melts

• Yellow food coloring (if using white chocolate)

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

Directions

1. Prepare the crust: In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar together. Press this mixture into the bottom of the mold cavities to form the crust. Freeze for 10 minutes to set.

2. Make the mousse: Whip the heavy cream to soft peaks. Fold in the lemon Greek yogurt (or a mixture of lemon curd and whipped cream), powdered sugar, and lemon extract. Chill for 10–15 minutes to let it firm up slightly.

3. Melt chocolate: Melt the white chocolate or yellow candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl. If using white chocolate, add yellow food coloring to create the desired shade. Coat the inside of the molds with this melted chocolate. Place them in the fridge to chill until set.

4. Assemble: Pipe the mousse halfway into the chilled molds. Add a spoonful of lemon curd in the center, then top with more mousse to fill the mold. Seal with the graham cracker crust and press gently to smooth the top.

5. Freeze: Freeze the molds for at least 4 hours, or until the puffs are fully set and firm.

6. Serve: Once set, gently unmold the puffs and allow them to thaw for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes approximately 6-8 lemon cream puffs, depending on the size of the molds used.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes

• Chill/Freeze Time: At least 4 hours

• Total Time: About 4.5 hours (including freezing)

Variations

• Lemon Curd Swirl: For an extra lemon burst, swirl lemon curd through the mousse filling for a marbled effect.

• Different Molds: Use cone-shaped or tree-shaped molds for a fun swirl design.

• Citrus Twist: Add a splash of orange or lime extract to the mousse for a citrusy twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep these puffs stored in an airtight container in the freezer. They’ll stay fresh for up to 1-2 weeks. Be sure to thaw for 10–15 minutes before serving.

• Reheating: These cream puffs do not require reheating since they are best served chilled or at room temperature after thawing.

FAQs

How can I make these puffs more lemony?

You can increase the amount of lemon extract in the mousse or add an extra layer of lemon curd inside for a stronger lemon flavor.

Can I use a different crust for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute the graham cracker crust with a shortbread or digestive biscuit crust for a different flavor profile.

Can I use store-bought lemon curd?

Absolutely! Store-bought lemon curd is a great time-saver and works perfectly in this recipe.

How long can I freeze these cream puffs?

These cream puffs can be stored in the freezer for up to 1-2 weeks. Be sure to keep them in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.

Can I make these puffs in advance?

Yes, you can prepare and freeze them ahead of time. Just allow them to thaw for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Can I use whipped topping instead of heavy cream?

While whipped topping can be used in place of heavy cream, it may alter the texture slightly, as heavy cream adds richness and a thicker texture to the mousse.

Is it necessary to use candy melts?

No, candy melts are optional. You can use white chocolate instead, or simply skip the coating step for a less sweet result.

Can I add fruit to these cream puffs?

Yes, you can add fresh berries on top for a colorful and fruity touch, or even incorporate them into the mousse.

Do these need to be served frozen?

No, you can serve them chilled after thawing for 10–15 minutes, but they should be stored in the freezer.

What can I do if I don’t have silicone molds?

If you don’t have silicone molds, you can use small tart pans or muffin tins lined with plastic wrap to form the puffs.

Conclusion

Lemon Cream Puffs are the perfect blend of tart, sweet, and creamy flavors. With a crunchy graham cracker crust and smooth lemon mousse filling, they are both delightful and refreshing. Whether you’re preparing them for a party or simply as a treat to enjoy at home, these puffs are sure to impress. They’re easy to make, freezer-friendly, and bursting with citrus goodness that everyone will love.

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