Cooking Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the water and butter over medium heat and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, add in the flour and salt at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture pulls away from the pan sides and forms a smooth ball.
- Remove the pan from heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the dough is shiny and smooth.
- Drop or pipe the dough onto the prepared baking sheet in mounds about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and puffed up. Avoid opening the oven door during baking!
- While the puffs are baking, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl until soft peaks form.
- Allow the baked puffs to cool completely before slicing them open.
- Fill each puff with whipped cream, replace the tops, and dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
When it comes to serving Mom’s Irresistible Cream Puffs, you can have some fun! Arrange them on a beautiful platter and dust with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. Pair with fresh berries, chocolate sauce, or even a scoop of ice cream for a decadent twist. They’re perfect for brunch with coffee or at the end of a lovely dinner.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To keep your cream puffs fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to keep them longer, fill and freeze the puffs individually. Just remember to let them thaw for about 30 minutes before serving! When handling leftovers, practice safe food storage to ensure freshness and quality.
Pro Chef Tips
For the best results, make sure your butter is fully melted before adding the flour to create a smooth dough. If your dough becomes too stiff, try adding a splash of water to loosen it up. Be cautious not to open the oven door while the puffs bake, as this can affect their ability to rise properly. Lastly, consider piping the whipped cream for a beautifully finished look!
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? You can easily customize these cream puffs! Try adding a hint of almond extract to the whipped cream for a nutty flavor, or fold in citrus zest for a refreshing twist. For a chocolate lover’s delight, you can dip the tops in melted chocolate or even fill them with chocolate mousse instead of whipped cream.
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
From start to finish, you’ll need about 45 minutes to make, bake, and assemble the cream puffs.
Can I use a different type of flour?
All-purpose flour works best for the structure of cream puffs. However, you can try gluten-free flour blends designed for baking, but the texture may vary.
How should I store leftovers?
Store filled cream puffs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If unfilled, they can last at room temperature for the same time period.
Now, grab your apron and get ready to create some delicious memories with Mom’s Irresistible Cream Puffs! Enjoy your baking adventure!
