Cream puffs are a classic French-inspired pastry beloved for their light, airy shells and creamy fillings. The dough, called pâte à choux, is cooked on the stovetop before baking, giving it the unique ability to puff up into hollow shells. These delicate pastries are versatile and can be filled with whipped cream, custard, or lemon pudding for a refreshing twist. Perfect for special occasions, afternoon tea, or holiday dessert tables, cream puffs bring an elegant yet approachable homemade touch to any gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup boiling water
- ¼ cup butter
- 4 eggs (large )
Optional fillings:
- whipped cream
- lemon pudding
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a saucepan, combine butter and boiling water.
- Heat on low until the butter melts completely.
Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients
- Sift together the flour and salt.
- Add all at once to the boiling mixture.
Step 3: Stir Vigorously
- Stir continuously for about 5 minutes until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
Step 4: Incorporate Eggs
- Remove from heat.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
Step 5: Shape the Puffs
- Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto a greased baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each puff.
Step 6: Bake
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Bake for 30 minutes until the tops are golden brown and dry.
Step 7: Cool and Fill
- Allow cream puffs to cool completely.
- Cut a small slit in the side and fill with whipped cream, custard, or lemon pudding.
Tips
- Bake until dry inside; underbaking causes collapse as they cool.
- Pierce each puff after baking and return to a turned-off oven for 5 to 10 minutes to dry the centers.
- Use a piping bag for uniform shapes and height.
- Fill only after puffs are fully cooled to avoid melting the filling.
- For savory puffs, omit sugar fillings and add herbed cream cheese or chicken salad.
- Make shells ahead and freeze; crisp in a 350°F oven for a few minutes before filling.
- Add ½ tsp vanilla or citrus zest to the dough for subtle aroma.
- Dust finished puffs with powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate for presentation.
- Ensure eggs are incorporated one at a time until glossy, scoopable batter forms.
Nutrition
Calories: 110kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 3gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 3.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.7gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 65mgPotassium: 35mgFiber: 0.3gSugar: 0.5gVitamin A: 210IUCalcium: 14mgIron: 0.6mg
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