why make this recipe
Delightful Cream Puffs are a versatile treat that everyone can enjoy. They are light, airy, and filled with a rich pastry cream that melts in your mouth. These treats are perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to casual gatherings. Best of all, they are fun to make and can be customized with your favorite flavors!
how to make Delightful Cream Puffs
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the water and butter over medium heat until the butter is fully melted. Remove from heat and stir in the flour until you get a smooth mixture.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly. Once it’s cooled down a bit, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until you have a lovely, glossy dough.
- Using a piping bag, pipe small mounds of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until they’re puffed and golden brown.
- While the puffs are cooling, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar and cornstarch, then gradually add milk over low heat while stirring until it thickens.
- Mix in the vanilla extract, then gently fold in the whipped cream. This will be your luscious pastry cream.
- Once the puffs have cooled, cut them horizontally and fill each one with your delicious pastry cream. Finish with a dusting of powdered sugar before serving.
how to serve Delightful Cream Puffs
Serve Delightful Cream Puffs as a sweet treat after dinner, or bring them to parties for a delightful surprise. They pair wonderfully with coffee or tea. You can also arrange them on a serving platter for a beautiful display.
how to store Delightful Cream Puffs
To store your cream puffs, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best enjoyed fresh but can last up to 2 days. If the puffs feel a bit soggy, you can re-crisp them in the oven for a few minutes.
tips to make Delightful Cream Puffs
- Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Avoid opening the oven door while baking, as this can cause the puffs to collapse.
- For extra flavor, you can add cocoa powder to the whipped cream or try different extracts like almond or lemon.
variation
You can customize your cream puffs by adding different flavors to the pastry cream, such as chocolate or coffee. You can also top them with chocolate sauce or fruit for a unique twist.
FAQs
Can I make the cream puffs ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the puffs ahead of time and fill them just before serving for the best texture.
What can I do if my cream puffs do not rise?
If your cream puffs don’t rise, it may be due to not enough steam in the oven. Make sure you bake them at a high temperature and avoid opening the oven door.
Can I freeze leftover cream puffs?
Cream puffs can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze them unfilled. You can fill them with cream once they are thawed.