Cream Puffs I
Cream Puffs I Recipe from France | Ingredients: Flour, Salt, Water, Butter, Eggs
Introduction
Cream puffs are a delightful and light pastry that can be filled with a variety of sweet or savory fillings. They are perfect for special occasions or as a treat for yourself.
History
Cream puffs have been around for centuries and are believed to have originated in France. They were first mentioned in a French cookbook in the 16th century and have since become a popular dessert around the world.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- First, add the salt and butter to the water.
- When the water is boiling, add the flour all at once, while stirring constantly until the mixture leaves the side of the pan.
- Remove from the heat and add the unbeaten eggs one at a time, while continuously beating.
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a buttered pan, keeping them about two inches apart.
- Bake in a moderate oven for twenty-five minutes.
- Once cooled, use a sharp knife to make a cut on the top or side, and fill with cream filling using a pastry tube.
Variations
- Fill cream puffs with whipped cream, pastry cream, or flavored custard.
- Top cream puffs with chocolate ganache or powdered sugar for added sweetness.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to stir the flour into the boiling water quickly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Be sure to beat the eggs in one at a time to ensure a smooth and light pastry.
- Allow the cream puffs to cool completely before filling to prevent the filling from melting.
Serving Suggestions
Cream puffs can be served as a dessert or as a sweet treat with tea or coffee.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to beat the eggs in one at a time to ensure a light and airy pastry.
- Bake the cream puffs in a moderate oven to ensure they rise properly.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use margarine instead of butter in this recipe.
- Gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute for regular flour.
Make Ahead Tips
Cream puffs can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Fill them with cream just before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Dust cream puffs with powdered sugar for a decorative touch. - Serve cream puffs on a platter with fresh berries for a colorful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Cream puffs pair well with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover cream puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each cream puff contains approximately 150 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each cream puff contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each cream puff contains approximately 8 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each cream puff contains approximately 3 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Cream puffs are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.
Alergens
Cream puffs contain eggs, dairy, and wheat.
Summary
Cream puffs are a delicious treat that is relatively low in calories but high in fat and carbohydrates.
Summary
Cream puffs are a classic and delicious pastry that can be enjoyed on any occasion. With a light and airy texture and a creamy filling, they are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
How did I get this recipe?
I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Cream Puffs. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl learning the ropes in the kitchen. My grandmother, who was a fantastic cook herself, had invited me over to spend the day baking with her. As we sifted flour and cracked eggs, she suddenly pulled out a tattered old cookbook from her shelf and flipped to a page that was well-worn and splattered with various ingredients.
"Here, my dear," she said, pointing to the Cream Puff recipe. "This is a classic that has been in our family for generations. It's a bit tricky, but I know you can handle it."
I eagerly read over the recipe, taking in every detail. The delicate pastry puffs filled with creamy custard seemed like a dreamy dessert that I had never attempted before. My grandmother watched me closely as I gathered the ingredients and began to follow the instructions.
The first step was to boil water and butter in a saucepan until it reached a rolling boil. I carefully measured out the ingredients, my hands trembling slightly with nerves. As I poured the flour into the boiling liquid, I stirred furiously, trying to prevent any lumps from forming. The dough began to come together, pulling away from the sides of the pan in a smooth ball.
Next, I transferred the dough to a mixing bowl and allowed it to cool slightly before adding in the eggs, one at a time. My grandmother stood by my side, offering words of encouragement and guidance as I mixed in each egg, watching as the dough transformed into a silky, glossy consistency.
Once the dough was ready, I scooped it into small mounds on a baking sheet, using a spoon to create perfectly rounded shapes. My grandmother showed me how to use a wet finger to smooth out any rough edges, ensuring that the puffs would bake evenly in the oven.
As the Cream Puffs baked, a tantalizing aroma filled the kitchen, making my mouth water with anticipation. I peeked through the oven window, watching as the puffs rose to golden perfection, their tops puffing up like little clouds.
While the puffs cooled on a wire rack, my grandmother prepared the creamy custard filling. She whipped together milk, sugar, and cornstarch in a saucepan, cooking it over low heat until it thickened into a smooth, velvety pudding. She added a touch of vanilla extract for flavor, stirring it in gently before allowing the mixture to cool.
Finally, it was time to assemble the Cream Puffs. I carefully sliced each puff in half, spooning a generous dollop of custard into the center before replacing the top. The finished puffs were a sight to behold, their golden shells glistening with a dusting of powdered sugar.
As my grandmother and I sat down to enjoy our Cream Puffs, I marveled at how a simple recipe could produce such a delicious and elegant dessert. The delicate pastry melted in my mouth, the creamy custard filling bursting with flavor. My grandmother smiled at me, her eyes twinkling with pride.
"Remember, my dear," she said, patting my hand. "Cooking is not just about following a recipe. It's about putting love and care into every dish you make. That's what makes it truly special."
And so, that day with my grandmother, I learned more than just how to make Cream Puffs. I learned the importance of patience, attention to detail, and most of all, the joy of sharing a homemade treat with someone you love. The memory of that day has stayed with me ever since, a reminder of the magic that happens in the kitchen when you put your heart into every recipe you create.