Easy Cream Puff Dessert

INGREDIENTS:

For the choux pastry base:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 4 large eggs
For the cream filling:
– 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
– 2 boxes (3.4 oz each) instant vanilla pudding mix
– 2 1/2 cups cold milk
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
For the topping:
– Chocolate syrup, for drizzling
– Extra whipped topping or powdered sugar (optional)

DIRECTIONS:

1. **Make the choux pastry base**: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then quickly stir in the flour all at once. Stir vigorously until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
2. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until smooth and glossy.
3. Spread the dough evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 25–30 minutes until puffed and golden. Don’t open the oven during baking! Once done, cool completely …