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 until mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides. Remove from heat and let cool 5 minutes.
Add Eggs:
Beat in eggs one at a time until dough is smooth and glossy.
Pipe Profiteroles:
Transfer dough to a piping bag fitted with a round or star tip. Pipe small rounds (about 1.5–2 inches) onto the prepared baking sheet.
Bake:
Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 10 minutes, then reduce heat to 350°F (175°C) and bake an additional 20–25 minutes until puffed and golden. Cool completely on a wire rack.
Prepare Filling:
Whipped Cream: In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to stiff peaks.
Pastry Cream (Optional): Prepare and cool according to your favorite recipe.
Fill Profiteroles:
Slice cooled profiteroles in half or poke a small hole in the bottom and pipe in the filling.
Make Chocolate Glaze:
Heat heavy cream until simmering. Pour over chopped chocolate, let sit 1–2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
Glaze and Serve:
Dip the top of each filled profiterole into the chocolate glaze or drizzle over the top. Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving.