I'm reviewing the cream puff recipe and instructions as I made my own pudding for the filling. The recipe was easy to make and beautiful coming out of the oven. For a first timer I am very happy with the results. My swans were lovely but I made the necks a bit thick. Next time I will use this filling recipe as well. Not as hard as it looks!

I'm giving this a 5 rating because it is such a stunning dessert idea. We had these on a cruise and I wanted to make them for several family members who have July birthdays. I highly recommend reading any on-line materials (including YouTube) before you try this. After reading this recipe and others, I was ready for the project. I made the shells a few days ahead of time and froze them. It took a little practice to pipe the necks. Watch them carefully as they bake. I made the shells in two different sizes so I had large swans (for the honorees) and small ones (for the children). I made a cream filling from scratch. I filled the shells several hours before serving. At the last minute I garnished with ReadyWhip and mint leaves. This was SUCH fun to make.... and serve. However, I was very glad that I had done 90% of the work ahead of time when I could concentrate on just the beautiful dessert.

First time cream puffer. Wanted a puff like I see at the bakery. While the filling is good as a pudding, I will continue looking for a thicker custard or thick whip cream. Overall so pleased. Made small puffs and swans for fun. We've eaten them all in less than 24 hours.

used stabilized whipped cream to secure neck and body. Made a raspberry sauce to go with this dessert.

I made the swan puffs but with a regualar cream puff filling. They were delicious and everybody was so impressed. I can't wait to try it with apricot filling!