Cream Puff Canapes
Cream puff canapes are light, delicate pastries filled with savory salads like tuna, shrimp, chicken, or ham, perfect for entertaining or elegant finger foods. Fluffy and flavorful.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place margarine and water in a saucepan.
- Heat over high heat until margarine is melted.
- Reduce heat to low.
- Add flour and salt all at once, stirring vigorously with a spoon until mixture forms a ball.
- Remove from heat.
- Quickly beat in 1 egg and cheese until mixture is smooth.
- Add the second egg and beat well.
- Drop heaping teaspoonfuls of batter onto a lightly greased baking sheet.
- Bake at 450°F (232°C) for 12 to 15 minutes; cool.
- Cut each puff in half, fill with about a teaspoon of salad filling.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the eggs are at room temperature before adding them to the mixture. You can substitute margarine with unsalted butter for a richer flavor. If you're short on time, consider using store-bought puff pastry instead of making the dough from scratch. These canapes can be filled with variations like a creamy tuna pasta salad or a simple ham salad for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cream puff canapes as an appetizer at parties or as a light lunch alongside a fresh salad. They pair wonderfully with a refreshing beverage, or you can serve them alongside American recipes like cheese shrimp casserole for a satisfying meal. Garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor and visual appeal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cream puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain their crispiness, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the puffs soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Puff Canapes contains roughly 35 calories, with 1g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
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 cream puff dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cream puff dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. However, it's best to bake them fresh for optimal texture and flavor. If you do make them ahead, ensure they are cooled completely before storing.
What other fillings can I use besides tuna salad?
You can use a variety of fillings such as shrimp salad, chicken salad, or even a vegetarian option with cream cheese and herbs. Each filling will give the cream puffs a unique flavor, so feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients.
How do I ensure my cream puffs rise properly?
To ensure your cream puffs rise well, make sure to incorporate the eggs thoroughly into the dough. The baking temperature is also crucial; starting at a high temperature helps create steam which causes the puffs to rise. Avoid opening the oven door during baking to maintain a consistent temperature.
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).