Why You’ll Love This Cream Puffs Recipe
If you’re looking for a delightful treat that’s both light and indulgent, you’ll love this cream puffs recipe.
These airy pastries are simply irresistible, with a crisp exterior and a soft, fluffy interior that practically melts in your mouth. The best part? You can fill them with luscious pastry cream or whipped cream, making them versatile for any occasion.
I can’t help but smile when I see them on the dessert table! Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, so you won’t spend hours in the kitchen.
Trust me, once you try these cream puffs, they’ll become your new favorite treat!
Ingredients of Cream Puffs
When you think of cream puffs, what comes to mind? Maybe it’s that delightful crunch as you bite into the perfectly baked pastry, or perhaps the creamy filling that oozes out as you take that first bite.
Whatever it is, these little clouds of joy are a must-have for any dessert lover. And the best part? You don’t need to be a professional pastry chef to whip them up in your own kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create these elegant treats that are sure to impress your family and friends.
Here’s what you’ll need to make those delightful cream puffs:
- 1/2 cup shortening
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup flour
- 3 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 4 egg yolks
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
Now, let’s chat a little about these ingredients. The shortening is key for that tender texture, while the boiling water helps to create steam, which is essential for puffing up those pastries.
If you’re wondering about the eggs, they’re not just there for flavor; they also provide structure and richness to the cream puffs. And don’t skimp on the vanilla in the pastry cream; it adds a lovely depth of flavor that makes all the difference.
You can even get adventurous and swap out the vanilla for other flavors, like almond or lemon, if you’re feeling fancy. So gather your ingredients, and let’s get ready to make some magic happen in the kitchen.
How to Make Cream Puffs
Making cream puffs is like stepping into a delicious adventure, and trust me, it’s simpler than it sounds. First, let’s start with the dough, which is often the most intimidating part for many home bakers. Grab that 1/2 cup of shortening and 1/8 teaspoon of salt, and toss them into a saucepan with 1 cup of boiling water.
Now, here’s where the magic begins: stir that mixture over medium heat until it reaches a rolling boil again. Oh, the anticipation! Once it’s bubbling away, lower the heat and add in your 1 cup of flour all at once. Stir vigorously—yes, like you mean it—until the mixture pulls away from the sides of the pan. It should look like a thick, sticky ball.
Now, here comes the fun part: the eggs! Remove the pan from the heat and start incorporating those 3 eggs one at a time. You’ll want to beat them in vigorously after each addition. It’s almost like a workout; your arm might feel like it’s doing some heavy lifting. But don’t worry, it’ll be worth it.
Once the dough is smooth and glossy, drop spoonfuls onto an ungreased baking pan. Picture those little mounds rising in the oven, puffing up like they’re auditioning for a baking reality show. Bake them at 450 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350 degrees and bake for an additional 20 minutes. It’s like a mini baking marathon, but the results are so rewarding.
While those puffs are baking, you can whip up the pastry cream, which is the star of the show. In a saucepan, combine 2 cups of milk, 1 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of cornstarch, 4 egg yolks, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla.
Over medium-high heat, whisk it all together and bring it to a boil while stirring constantly. It’s going to thicken up beautifully. Just remember to keep an eye on it—no one likes a burnt custard. Once it’s thickened, let it cool completely, stirring often to avoid that pesky skin from forming.
Once your cream puffs are cool, cut off the tops and fill them with your luscious pastry cream. And voilà, you’ve got yourself some delightful cream puffs that are sure to impress. Just remember, the first bite is where the magic happens, and don’t worry about being perfect; we’re all just here for the love of good food.
Cream Puffs Substitutions & Variations
While traditional cream puffs are delicious, there’s always room for creativity in the kitchen.
If you’re looking to switch things up, try using butter instead of shortening for a richer flavor. For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
You can also experiment with different fillings, like chocolate ganache or fruit-flavored whipped cream. For a savory twist, fill them with herbed cream cheese or savory chicken salad.
Don’t forget to play with toppings—dust them with powdered sugar, drizzle with chocolate, or even sprinkle with crushed nuts for added texture.
Enjoy your delicious creations!
What to Serve with Cream Puffs
Cream puffs are a delightful treat that can be even more enjoyable when paired with the right accompaniments.
I love serving them alongside a rich chocolate sauce for dipping or drizzling. Fresh berries, like strawberries or raspberries, add a revitalizing contrast and a pop of color.
If you want something warm, a scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the cream puffs beautifully. For a touch of elegance, I sometimes dust them with powdered sugar or serve them with a side of whipped cream.
Each pairing enhances the experience, making my cream puffs the star of any dessert table!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your cream puffs turn out perfectly, I recommend using room temperature eggs, as they incorporate more easily into the dough.
Make sure to bake your puffs on an ungreased pan to achieve that lovely rise and golden color. Don’t open the oven door while they’re baking; this can cause them to collapse.
For an extra touch, you can dust them with powdered sugar once they cool. If you’re filling them with pastry cream, do so right before serving to keep them crisp.
Finally, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness. Enjoy!