Light, airy, and irresistible, these classic cream puffs are filled with a rich, velvety custard that melts in your mouth. Perfect for special occasions or a delightful treat any day, this recipe ensures your cream puffs are bakery-quality with a touch of homemade love.
Ingredients:
For the Cream Puff Shells:
- 1 cup (240 ml) water
- 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
For the Custard Filling:
- 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (30 g) cornstarch
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp (28 g) unsalted butter
Optional Garnish:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cream Puff Shells:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, combine water, butter, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the butter melts and the mixture boils.
- Remove from heat and quickly stir in the flour until a smooth dough forms.
- Return the pan to the stove over low heat, stirring constantly, for about 1-2 minutes to dry out the dough slightly.
- Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, until the dough is smooth and glossy.
- Use a piping bag or spoon to drop tablespoon-sized mounds onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until puffed and golden. Allow to cool completely.
- Make the Custard Filling:
- In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
- In a separate bowl, whisk sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks until smooth.
- Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and butter until smooth. Cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface and cool completely in the refrigerator.
- Assemble the Cream Puffs:
- Slice the cooled cream puff shells in half horizontally.
- Pipe or spoon the custard filling into the bottom half of each shell, then replace the top half.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Enjoy these delectable cream puffs fresh or refrigerate them for a few hours before serving for a chilled treat!