Homemade Cream Puffs
Delicate, airy, and golden, these classic cream puffs are a delightful treat. Filled with luscious whipped cream or pastry cream, they’re perfect for special occasions, dessert tables, or an indulgent snack. Crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, they’re as elegant as they are delicious.
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Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Electric mixer or hand whisk (for cream)
- Piping bag or spoon
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- For the Choux Pastry:
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter 1 stick
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- For the Filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional Topping:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Melted chocolate for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Make Choux Pastry:
- In a medium saucepan, combine water, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Add flour all at once and stir vigorously until mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
- Add Eggs:
- Beat in eggs one at a time, stirring vigorously until fully incorporated. The dough should be smooth and glossy.
- Pipe or Scoop Dough:
- Transfer dough to a piping bag or use a spoon to drop small mounds (about 1.5–2 inches) onto prepared baking sheet, spaced 2 inches apart.
- Bake:
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 10 minutes, then reduce heat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes until puffed and golden brown. Do not open the oven during baking.
- Cool:
- Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare Filling:
- In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Fill Cream Puffs:
- Slice cooled cream puffs in half or poke a small hole in the bottom and pipe in whipped cream.
- Serve:
- Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate, if desired. Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving.
Servings: 14 cream puffs