Brunch Puffs
Light and airy brunch puffs with a crispy exterior and soft interior, perfect for entertaining or a special weekend breakfast, complemented by savory fillings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, bring water, butter, and salt to a boil.
- Add flour all at once and stir until a smooth ball forms.
- Remove from the heat; let stand for 5 minutes.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Beat until mixture is smooth and shiny.
- Drop by 1/4 cupfuls onto a greased baking sheet, 2 inches apart.
- Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 35 minutes or until golden brown.
- Transfer to a wire rack.
- Immediately split puffs open; remove and discard tops and soft dough from inside.
- Set aside and prepare filling.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your butter is fully melted before adding the flour to create a smooth dough. You can substitute margarine for butter if desired, but be aware it may slightly alter the flavor. To add a twist, consider incorporating herbs or cheese into the dough. If you want a sweeter treat, try filling the puffs with whipped cocoa cream frosting.
Serving Suggestions
These brunch puffs are best served fresh and warm. You can fill them with savory mixtures like cheese, ham, or sautéed vegetables for a hearty option. For a sweet variation, try filling them with whipped cocoa cream frosting or a fruit filling. They pair well with a light salad or a fresh fruit platter.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the puffs to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F and warm the puffs for about 10 minutes until crisp again. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brunch Puffs contains roughly 788 calories, with 4g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is a good source of calcium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1913mg per serving (83% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
It's best to make the dough fresh for optimal texture, but you can prepare the puffs in advance and freeze them unbaked. Bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I fill these puffs with?
You can fill the puffs with a variety of fillings such as sweetened cream cheese, whipped cream, or even savory options like chicken salad or egg salad. Experiment with different flavors to suit your taste.
Why did my puffs not rise properly?
If your puffs didn't rise, it could be due to not beating the eggs in thoroughly or opening the oven door too early during baking. Ensure your oven is properly preheated and avoid peeking until the last few minutes of baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).