Cream Puffs(Midget Puffs)
Cream puffs are light, airy pastries with crisp shells and soft interiors, perfect for filling with sweet creams or savory fillings, suitable for elegant desserts or snacks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- In a saucepan, bring water and butter to a high boil.
- Stir in the flour until well combined.
- Vigorously stir over low heat for about 1 minute until the mixture forms a ball.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Beat in the eggs all at once until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Drop rounded teaspoonfuls of dough onto an ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until golden and puffed.
Tips & Substitutions
For lighter cream puffs, ensure your eggs are at room temperature before adding them to the mixture. If you don't have butter, margarine can be used as a substitute. If the dough seems too thick, add a little water gradually. For added flavor, consider mixing in a pinch of salt or vanilla extract. Always drop the dough onto the baking sheet in equal sizes for uniform puffing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cream puffs warm or at room temperature. They can be filled with sweetened whipped cream, pastry cream, or savory fillings like cheese. Pair them with a light salad or serve alongside dishes like Herring 'N Sour Cream for a delightful contrast. These puffs are also perfect for festive occasions or as a snack with tea.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cream puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep them longer, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to a month. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Puffs(Midget Puffs) contains roughly 294 calories, with 3g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 21g 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
Why are my cream puffs not puffing up?
If your cream puffs are not puffing up, it might be due to undercooking the dough or not allowing enough steam to form. Ensure you bake them long enough, and do not open the oven door during baking, as this can cause them to collapse.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. Once cooled, cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before dropping it onto the baking sheet.
What can I use to fill the cream puffs?
You can fill cream puffs with a variety of fillings. For sweet options, consider pastry cream or chocolate mousse. For savory, try a mixture of cream cheese and herbs. They can also be filled with a mix of whipped cream and fruit for a refreshing treat.
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).