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Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Pastry Dough
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Heat the Wet Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine water, butter, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the butter is fully melted and the mixture starts to boil.
- Add the Flour: Reduce heat to low. Add the flour all at once, stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Incorporate the Eggs: Remove the dough from heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. The dough will be smooth, shiny, and slightly sticky.
- Pipe or Scoop Dough: Transfer the dough to a piping bag with a large round tip or use a spoon to drop golf ball-sized mounds onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and firm. Avoid opening the oven door while baking to prevent deflation.
- Cool: Remove the puffs from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Whipped Cream Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. For extra stability, you can add 1 tablespoon of instant vanilla pudding mix.
or
Custard Filling: If using vanilla custard or pastry cream, ensure it’s chilled and ready to use.
Step 3: Assemble the Cream Puffs
- Cut or Poke: Use a sharp knife to slice the top third off each puff or poke a hole in the bottom for filling.
- Fill the Puffs: Spoon or pipe the filling into the hollow center of each puff. Replace the tops if sliced.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: Sprinkle a generous layer of powdered sugar over the cream puffs for a classic look.
- Optional Chocolate Glaze: Melt 1/2 cup of chocolate chips with 2 tablespoons of heavy cream. Drizzle over the filled cream puffs for an extra indulgent touch.
Tips for Success
- Perfect Pâte à Choux: Ensure the dough is smooth and not too wet. Proper consistency is key to achieving the signature hollow center.
- Keep It Crisp: For crispier puffs, poke a small hole in each puff after baking to release steam, then return them to the warm (but off) oven for 5–10 minutes.
- Fill Just Before Serving: To prevent sogginess, fill the puffs shortly before serving.
- Customize Flavors: Add cocoa powder, lemon zest, or almond extract to the filling for unique variations.
When to Serve Mom’s Famous Cream Puffs
These delightful pastries are perfect for a wide range of occasions:
- Holiday Gatherings: Add them to your dessert table for a touch of elegance.
- Birthday Parties: Offer them as a light, airy alternative to heavier cakes.
- Afternoon Tea: Serve with coffee or tea for a refined treat.
- Everyday Indulgence: Because sometimes, you don’t need a reason to enjoy something this delicious!
Conclusion
Mom’s Famous Cream Puffs are a timeless dessert that never fails to impress. Whether you’re recreating childhood memories or starting new traditions, these light and luscious pastries are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. With a little practice and a lot of love, you can master the art of cream puffs and delight friends and family with this classic treat.
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