Cream Puff Hors D'Oeuvres
Cream puff hors d'oeuvres feature delicate, airy pastry shells filled with savory shrimp, chicken, or ham salad, perfect for elegant appetizers and entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil butter, water, and chicken bouillon cube in a saucepan.
- Add flour to the boiling mixture and beat well until smooth.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Drop by small teaspoons onto an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes.
- Turn the oven to 400°F for the first 5 minutes of baking.
- Let the cream puffs cool slightly, then slice partway through each.
- Fill with shrimp, chicken, or ham salad spread.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure the butter is fully melted before adding the flour to create a smooth dough. If you want to add a twist, consider using vegetable broth instead of chicken bouillon for a vegetarian option. Also, beating the eggs in one at a time is crucial for achieving that glossy texture. You can use this dough for other savory fillings as well.
Serving Suggestions
These cream puffs are perfect for entertaining and can be filled with a variety of spreads such as shrimp, chicken, or ham salad. Pair them with a light salad or a dipping sauce for a full appetizer spread. They also complement a main dish like Easy Elegant Chicken Casserole beautifully, making them a versatile addition to any meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cream puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy. For longer storage, consider freezing the unfilled puffs.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Puff Hors D'Oeuvres contains roughly 125 calories, with 1g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 10g 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 puffs in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cream puffs in advance and freeze them unfilled. Simply bake them, let them cool, and store in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to serve, thaw and fill just before serving for the best texture.
What can I use instead of chicken bouillon?
If you prefer a vegetarian option or don’t have chicken bouillon, you can substitute with vegetable broth or bouillon cubes. This will maintain the savory flavor while catering to different dietary preferences.
Why are my cream puffs flat?
Flat cream puffs can result from insufficient egg incorporation or underbaking. Ensure you beat the eggs thoroughly until the dough is glossy and smooth. Also, make sure to bake long enough so they rise properly and develop a crisp exterior.
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).