Classic Cream Puffs Recipe

Introduction:

Cream puffs, also known as choux pastry puffs, are a delightful French dessert consisting of a hollow pastry ball filled with a sweet, creamy filling. They are perfect for parties, high tea, or as a luxurious treat to enjoy any day.

Ingredients:

• For the Choux Pastry:
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
• For the Custard Filling:
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For Dusting:
  • Powdered sugar

Directions:

1. Make the Choux Pastry:
   • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
   • In a medium saucepan, combine water, butter, sugar, and salt and bring to a boil.
   • Add flour all at once, stirring vigorously. Cook and stir until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
   • Transfer to a mixing bowl and let cool for 5 minutes.
   • Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition until smooth.
   • Drop by tablespoons onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack.
2. Prepare the Custard Filling:
   • In a saucepan, heat milk until hot but not boiling.
   • In a bowl, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks.
   • Gradually whisk in hot milk and return the mixture to the saucepan.
   • Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
   • Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming, and chill in the refrigerator.
3. Assemble the Cream Puffs:
   • Once cool, split the puffs open; remove any soft dough inside.
   • Fill the puffs with chilled custard using a pastry bag fitted with a plain or star tip.
   • Dust with powdered sugar just before serving.

Conclusion:

Cream puffs are a beautiful and satisfying treat, combining the light, crisp texture of choux pastry with the smooth richness of vanilla custard. They are best served fresh and can be a delightful addition to any dessert table. Enjoy the process of making these elegant pastries and the pleasure of eating them!