Carmen C.
Google
Beard Papa’s Cupertino – The Best Cream Puffs in the Bay Area
I have been visiting Beard Papa’s in Cupertino since they first opened, and it continues to be one of my favorite dessert spots in the South Bay. The cream puffs here showcase true Japanese artistry, with light, flaky shells and silky custard fillings that taste fresh and balanced. Since I prefer desserts that are not overly sweet, I usually stick with the classics, but I also appreciate how they offer creative seasonal shells and fillings to cater to different palates.
Every shell is baked fresh each morning, and each puff is filled to order, which makes all the difference in taste and texture. The store also offers a simple loyalty program tied to your phone number, plus a complimentary cream puff on your birthday with purchase. It is important to note that these cream puffs are best enjoyed the same day. After about 12 hours, the shell can lose its crispness and the flavor and texture shift, so keep that in mind if you plan to buy a half-dozen or a dozen at a discount.
Must-Try Desserts at Beard Papa’s Cupertino
Mini Puffs (6 pieces) ($7.35) – 4.8/5
Perfect for sharing, with a satisfying shell-to-cream ratio. I always choose the vanilla filling, which never disappoints.
Original Shell with Vanilla Filling ($4.40) – 5/5
The signature choice and my favorite. The puff has a golden, crunchy exterior with a soft croissant-like interior, and the vanilla custard has just the right level of creaminess and viscosity. A flawless pairing.
Original Shell with Green Tea Filling ($4.40) – 4/5
For green tea fans, this filling has a noticeable matcha flavor mixed with the vanilla cream. While it is refreshing, I personally prefer the classic vanilla, as the texture of the green tea version is thicker and richer.
Original Shell with Chocolate Filling ($4.40) – 3/5
The chocolate filling is bold in cacao flavor, but the texture is the thickest compared to the others, and it leaves the mouth a little dry. Worth trying if you love chocolate, though not my favorite.
Crème Brûlée with Vanilla Filling ($5.40) – 5/5
A delightful twist on a classic dessert. The caramelized top adds a delicate crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy vanilla custard. I always grab one of these if they are available.
Chocolate Fondant ($4.90) – 2/5
This was a miss for me. The cake was dry and too rich in flavor. Beard Papa’s is best enjoyed for its cream puffs, and I recommend skipping the other baked goods.
Final Thoughts
Beard Papa’s in Cupertino remains a true gem for dessert lovers. While the ambiance of the shop feels a bit less polished than it once did, the quality of the cream puffs has never wavered. The fact that this location survived the pandemic speaks to the loyalty of its customers and the excellence of its products. If you are searching for the best cream puffs in Cupertino or the Bay Area, this is the place to go.