Instructions
1. Make the Choux Pastry
. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
. Boil Water and Butter: In a medium saucepan, combine the water, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
. Add Flour: Reduce the heat to low and add the flour all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan (about 2 minutes).
. Cool Slightly: Remove from heat and let the mixture cool for 5 minutes.
. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until the dough is smooth and glossy.
. Pipe or Scoop: Using a piping bag or two spoons, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
. Bake: Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F, then reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
. Cool: Remove from the oven and let the puffs cool completely on a wire rack.
2. Prepare the Cream Filling
. Whip the Cream: In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
. Chill: Cover and refrigerate the cream until ready to use.
3. Fill the Cream Puffs
. Slice or Poke: Slice the cream puffs in half horizontally or make a small hole in the bottom with a knife or piping tip.
. Fill: Pipe or spoon the whipped cream into the shells.
. Reassemble: Replace the tops if sliced.
4. Add Toppings (Optional)
Dust with powdered sugar for a classic look.
Drizzle melted chocolate over the tops for an extra indulgent touch.
Tips for Perfect Cream Puffs
Do Not Open the Oven Early: Opening the oven before the puffs are fully baked may cause them to collapse.
Cool Completely Before Filling: Filling warm shells can cause the cream to melt.
Experiment with Fillings: Try custard, pastry cream, or flavored whipped creams for variety.
Storage
Refrigerate: Store filled cream puffs in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
Freeze Shells: Unfilled shells can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before filling.
Why You’ll Love Mom’s Cream Puffs
Light and Airy: Perfectly puffed shells with a tender crumb.
Decadent Filling: Sweet, creamy, and satisfying.
Homemade Comfort: A nostalgic treat made with love.
Enjoy these Delicious Cream Puffs and create sweet memories with every bite