Cream puffs are light and airy pastries made from choux dough, filled with sweet cream or custard. They are a delightful treat for any occasion, whether served as a dessert or a fancy snack.

Ingredients

For the Choux Pastry:

• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 large eggs

For the Filling:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Ganache (optional):

• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Timing

Making Cream Puffs takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 30 minutes for baking, plus chilling time for the filling.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Choux Pastry

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Boil Water and Butter: In a medium saucepan, combine the water and butter. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Add Flour and Salt: Once boiling, remove from heat and stir in the flour and salt until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
4. Incorporate Eggs: Allow the dough to cool slightly. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the dough is smooth and glossy.
5. Pipe the Dough: Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a large round tip. Pipe small mounds (about 1.5 inches in diameter) onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 2: Bake the Choux Pastry

1. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and puffed up. Do not open the oven door during baking, as this can cause the puffs to deflate.
2. Cool: Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. Whip Cream: In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
2. Fill the Puffs: Once the cream puffs are completely cool, use a small knife to cut a slit in the side or bottom of each puff. Fill each puff with the whipped cream using a piping bag or a spoon.

Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache (Optional)

1. Heat Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
2. Add Chocolate: Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate chips until melted and smooth. Let cool slightly.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

1. Drizzle Ganache: If using, dip the tops of the filled cream puffs in the chocolate ganache or drizzle it over the puffs.
2. Serve: Enjoy the cream puffs immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Cream Puffs (per puff, based on 12 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	150
Protein	2g
Fat	10g
Carbohydrates	14g
Sugar	4g

Tips for Customization

• Flavor Variations: Add flavored extracts (like almond or hazelnut) to the whipped cream for a different taste.
• Fruit Filling: Fold in fresh berries or fruit puree into the whipped cream for added flavor and texture.
• Savory Option: For a savory twist, fill with cheese or herb-flavored whipped cream, or a savory custard.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover Cream Puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for a short time.

Conclusion

Cream Puffs are a delightful pastry that can be customized in many ways, making them a versatile treat for any occasion. Their light texture and sweet filling are sure to impress!

FAQs

Can I make the choux pastry ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the choux pastry in advance and freeze them. Just reheat in the oven to restore crispness before filling.

Can I use a different filling?

Absolutely! You can fill cream puffs with custard, pastry cream, or even ice cream for a fun variation.