Cream Puffs
Cream puffs are delightful, airy pastries with a crisp outer shell and a soft, tender interior. They can be filled with sweet cream, ice cream, or pudding, making them a versatile treat for any occasion. Perfect for celebrations or simply as a comforting dessert, they appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add shortening to boiling water and bring to a boil.
- Remove from heat.
- Add flour and salt all at once and stir vigorously until a ball forms in the center of the pan.
- Cool slightly.
- Add unbeaten eggs, one at a time, beating thoroughly after each egg.
- The mixture should be very stiff.
- Shape on a greased cookie sheet by dropping from a spoon or pastry bag.
- Bake medium-size (3-inch) puffs for 10 minutes at 450°F and then 20 minutes at 350°F.
- Cool.
- Cut a slice off the top and fill with cream, ice cream, or pudding.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your eggs are at room temperature before adding them to the mixture. You can substitute shortening with butter for a richer flavor, but be mindful that it may alter the texture slightly. If you find your mixture too thick, add a tablespoon of water to achieve the right consistency. Remember to preheat your oven thoroughly for even baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve cream puffs as a delightful dessert at your next gathering, or pair them with a rich chocolate sauce for dipping, reminiscent of a chocolate fondue experience. They also make a wonderful addition to a dessert table alongside Molten Chocolate Lava Cake or Assyrian Rice for a diverse spread that guests will love.
Storage & Reheating
Cream puffs are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you have leftovers filled with cream, store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat unfilled puffs in a 300°F oven for about 5-10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Puffs contains roughly 162 calories, with 2g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 8g 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 cream puffs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it's best to bake them fresh for the best texture. If you need to make filled cream puffs in advance, consider filling them just before serving to prevent sogginess.
Why did my cream puffs not rise?
If your cream puffs did not rise, it could be due to several factors, including insufficient moisture in the dough or not enough heat in the oven. Make sure your water is boiling when you add the flour, and bake them at the right temperatures to ensure proper puffing.
How can I tell when my cream puffs are done baking?
Cream puffs are done when they are golden brown and have a hollow sound when tapped on the bottom. Avoid opening the oven door too early, as this can cause them to collapse. They should also feel firm to the touch before cooling.
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).