Cream puffs, known for their delicate, crisp outer shell and luscious creamy filling, are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. These light and airy pastries are perfect for special occasions, dessert buffets, or even a simple afternoon snack. The simplicity of the ingredients in this recipe—just butter, flour, water, and vanilla—makes these cream puffs a classic that anyone can master. If you’re a fan of French pastries or just looking for a sweet, indulgent treat to impress your friends and family, this cream puff recipe is a must-try.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Resting Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 12-15 cream puffs
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 1 stick of butter
- 1 cup of water
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 3 large eggs (beaten)
For the filling:
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Choux Pastry Dough
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a non-stick baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Butter and Water: In a medium saucepan, combine the butter and water. Place the saucepan over medium heat and allow the butter to melt completely. Once the butter has melted, bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the Flour and Salt: Once the water and butter mixture is boiling, remove the saucepan from the heat. Quickly add the flour and salt, stirring vigorously to combine. The dough will start to come together and form a smooth ball. Let this dough cool slightly for about 3-5 minutes before proceeding.
- Incorporate the Eggs: Gradually add the beaten eggs, one at a time, stirring well after each addition. The dough should be smooth and slightly glossy once the eggs are fully incorporated. The mixture should be thick and sticky.
Step 2: Shaping the Cream Puffs
- Pipe the Dough: Using a pastry bag fitted with a large round tip (or a resealable plastic bag with the tip cut off), pipe the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Aim for about 12-15 dollops, each about the size of a walnut. Make sure the puffs are evenly spaced, as they will expand while baking.
- Bake the Puffs: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puffs have risen and are golden brown. Avoid opening the oven door during the first 15 minutes of baking to ensure the puffs stay puffed up. Once done, remove the puffs from the oven and set them aside to cool on a wire rack.
Step 3: Preparing the Filling
- Whip the Cream: While the puffs are cooling, make the filling. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until it begins to thicken. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.
- Fill the Puffs: Once the cream puffs have cooled completely, use a small knife to create a slit in the side of each puff. Gently pipe or spoon the whipped cream filling into the center of each puff.
Serving and Enjoying Your Cream Puffs
To serve, arrange the filled cream puffs on a plate, and if desired, dust with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate sauce for an extra touch. These cream puffs are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days.
Famous cream puffs are a fantastic pastry that showcases the delicate balance of a crisp shell and a smooth, sweet filling. With just a few ingredients and straightforward preparation steps, you can create a truly impressive dessert that will leave your guests asking for the recipe. Whether you’re making them for a special celebration or simply to indulge yourself, these cream puffs are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Enjoy the process of creating these delightful treats and share them with loved ones for a memorable experience. They are the perfect blend of elegance and simplicity, making them an all-time favorite dessert for any occasion.
This recipe provides a perfect balance of ease and indulgence, and it’s sure to bring joy to anyone who takes a bite. Happy baking!