Ingredients
Method
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Make the Dough:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter and water. Stir until the mixture comes to a slow boil.
- Add the flour all at once and stir continuously with a wooden spoon or spatula until the dough pulls away from the sides and forms a ball.
Incorporate the Eggs:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the dough cool slightly.
- Add the eggs one at a time, stirring thoroughly with a fork or spatula after each addition. The dough will appear mushy at first but will thicken into a smooth consistency as you mix.
Shape the Puffs:
- Spoon or pipe the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, making each puff about 1 inch in size. Leave space between each puff to allow for expansion.
Bake the Puffs:
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 13–15 minutes without opening the oven door.
- Once the puffs are golden brown, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely.
Make the Whipped Cream Filling:
- Use a hand mixer on high speed to whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form (it should look like shaving cream).
- Gently fold in the powdered sugar until evenly mixed, being careful not to overwhip.
Assemble the Cream Puffs:
- Slice each cooled cream puff in half horizontally.
- Spoon or pipe the whipped cream filling onto the bottom half of each puff and replace the top.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve immediately for the best texture, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- Prevent Deflating: Avoid opening the oven door while the puffs are baking to maintain their airy structure.
- Storage Tips: Store unfilled cream puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Fill them just before serving.
- Freezing Option: Freeze unfilled puffs in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw and crisp in the oven before filling.
- Add Flavor: Mix vanilla extract or cocoa powder into the whipped cream for a fun twist.