Simple and Easy Cream Puffs

Welcome to the World of Homemade Cream Puffs!

Don’t be intimidated by the thought of making cream puffs from scratch! These delightful little treats are surprisingly easy to whip up and taste just as delicious—if not better—than the store-bought ones. So, roll up your sleeves and prepare for a baking adventure that will leave you with the most scrumptious cream puffs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade cream puffs are a game-changer. Not only are they incredibly simple to make, but they also allow you to customize the fillings to your heart’s content. Whether you prefer classic whipped cream or want to experiment with other sweet or savory options, these cream puffs are the perfect canvas.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Saucepan
• Mixing spoon
• Electric mixer or hand whisk
• Cookie sheet
• Ziplock bag (optional)

Ingredients

• 1 cup boiling water
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 cup flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 4 eggs

Fillings:

• Once cooled, fill with your choice of filling.
• We used whipped cream and froze them for a delightful, slightly frozen treat reminiscent of the cream puffs from Costco.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. In a saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil.
3. Add the butter to the boiling water and stir until melted.
4. Quickly add the flour and salt to the mixture.
5. Stir vigorously until a ball of dough forms.
6. Remove from heat and add 1 egg, beating well. Allow the mixture to stand for 5 minutes.
7. Add the remaining eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
8. Let the mixture stand for another 10 minutes.
9. Using a spoon or a ziplock bag with the corner snipped off, drop or pipe the dough onto a cookie sheet, spacing each puff about 2 inches apart.
10. Use a heaping tablespoon of dough for each puff.
11. Bake for 20-30 minutes, checking at the 20-minute mark. Baking time may vary depending on your oven.

Tips for Success

• Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking to achieve the best puff.
• Be patient and avoid opening the oven door frequently to prevent deflating the puffs.
• If you’re unsure about doneness, let the puffs bake a little longer until golden brown and firm.

Additional Tips and Variations

Experiment with different fillings such as pastry cream, chocolate ganache, or savory options like cream cheese and herbs. For a twist, try adding a bit of sugar to the dough for a sweeter pastry.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: Approximately 150

Fat: 10g

Carbs: 12g

Protein: 3g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make cream puffs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the puffs a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Fill them just before serving for maximum freshness.

What if my cream puffs deflate?

This can happen if they’re underbaked or the oven door was opened too soon. Ensure they’re fully baked and avoid opening the oven door during baking.

Can I freeze cream puffs?

Absolutely! Freeze the unfilled puffs in a single layer, then transfer them to a ziplock bag. They can be filled directly from frozen and served immediately.

Conclusion

Now that you have the secrets to making perfect cream puffs, it’s time to get baking! We can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own. Share your experiences and any creative variations you come up with. Happy baking!