5. **Filling Tips**:
– Chill the filling for 15-20 minutes before assembling to make it easier to pipe.
– Use a piping bag with a star tip for a decorative touch.
### **Variations**
1. **Chocolate Cream Puffs**:
– Add **2 tablespoons cocoa powder** to the flour when making the pâte à choux.
– Fill with **chocolate pudding** or **chocolate whipped cream**.
2. **Lemon Cream Puffs**:
– Add **zest of 1 lemon** to the pâte à choux dough.
– Fill with **lemon curd** or **lemon-flavored whipped cream**.
3. **Coffee Cream Puffs**:
– Add **1 teaspoon instant espresso powder** to the pâte à choux dough.
– Fill with **coffee-flavored whipped cream** or **mocha pudding**.
4. **Fruit-Filled Cream Puffs**:
– Add **fresh berries** (like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries) to the filling or serve them on the side.
5. **Savory Cream Puffs**:
– Omit the sugar and vanilla from the pâte à choux.
– Fill with **chicken salad**, **cheese filling**, or **herbed cream cheese**.
6. **Matcha Cream Puffs**:
– Add **1-2 tablespoons matcha powder** to the pâte à choux dough.
– Fill with **matcha-flavored whipped cream**.
7. **Caramel Cream Puffs**:
– Drizzle the assembled puffs with **caramel sauce** and sprinkle with **sea salt**.
### **How to Store**
1. **Unfilled Cream Puffs**:
– Store in an airtight container at room temperature for **up to 2 days**.
– For longer storage, freeze the unfilled puffs in a freezer-safe bag for **up to 1 month**. Thaw at room temperature before filling.
2. **Filled Cream Puffs**:
– Store in an airtight container in the fridge for **up to 2 days**. The filling may soften the puffs over time, so it’s best to fill them just before serving.
3. **Filling**:
– Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the fridge for **up to 3 days**.
### **Serving Suggestions**
– Dust with **powdered sugar** or drizzle with **melted chocolate** for a classic finish.
– Serve with a side of **fresh fruit** or **fruit compote** for a refreshing contrast.
– Pair with a cup of **coffee**, **tea**, or **hot chocolate** for a delightful treat.
This **Cream Puffs with Mom’s Celebrated Filling** recipe is sure to impress! Let me know if you’d like more tips or variations. 
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