Indulge in the deliciousness of homemade cream puff shells. This recipe teaches you the art of preparing light and airy pastry shells that can be filled with various sweet or savory fillings. Whether you choose to make traditional cream puffs or get creative with your fillings, this delightful pastry recipe is sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a saucepan, combine water, butter, and salt. Bring it to a boil over medium heat.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the flour all at once. Stir vigorously until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- 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 becomes smooth and shiny.
- Scoop the dough using a spoon or a piping bag and form small mounds on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the shells are puffed up and golden brown.
- Remove the shells from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, slice each shell in half horizontally and fill with your desired cream or savory filling.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Cream puffs are also known as profiteroles or choux buns.
The hollow center of cream puff shells is perfect for filling with whipped cream, custard, ice cream, or even savory fillings like chicken salad.
Cream puff shells can be frozen and filled at a later time for convenience.