Cream Puffs

Here’s a classic cream puffs recipe. These delicate pastry shells are filled with a rich and creamy filling, making them a perfect dessert for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Pastry (Choux Pastry)

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

For the Cream Filling

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Glaze (Optional)

• 4 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

Instructions

Make the Pastry Shells:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, water, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Add the flour all at once and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool for 5 minutes.
5. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until the dough is smooth and glossy.
6. Spoon or pipe the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, forming mounds about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Avoid opening the oven door during baking.
8. Remove from the oven and pierce each puff with a toothpick to release steam. Cool completely on a wire rack.

Make the Cream Filling:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
2. Transfer the whipped cream to a piping bag fitted with a plain or star tip.

Fill the Pastry Shells:

1. Cut the tops off the cooled pastry shells and set them aside.
2. Pipe the whipped cream into the bottom half of each shell, filling generously.
3. Replace the tops of the pastry shells.

Make the Chocolate Glaze (Optional):

1. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
2. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth.
3. Drizzle or spread the chocolate glaze over the filled cream puffs.

Serve:

1. Refrigerate the cream puffs for at least an hour before serving to allow the filling to set.
2. Enjoy these delightful cream puffs chilled.

Feel free to adjust the recipe to your taste, such as adding a different filling or topping. Enjoy your baking!