Are eclairs basically fancy cream puffs, or is there a difference?

[Stark]

I've always wondered if eclairs and cream puffs are just different names for the same delicious treat. Can someone help clear this up? I'm craving some pastry wisdom!

 

[Caramellyy_]

Cream puffs typically filled with whipped cream, which keeps things light and fluffy. While eclairs are filled with a richer custard-like filling called pastry cream, and then usually topped off with a chocolate glaze. I think of cream puffs as a delightful afternoon snack, while eclairs feel a bit more dressed up for dessert.

 

[Lego]

To me, eclairs feel a bit fancier because of their shape and often richer filling. Cream puffs are more straightforward, though both are delicious!

 

[Kitty]

Eclairs are essentially elongated cream puffs filled with cream and topped with chocolate icing, whereas cream puffs are typically round and may have various fillings, making eclairs a fancier variation!