Tiny Puffs
Tiny Puffs are light, airy pastry shells perfect for stuffing with savory fillings like chicken salad, making them ideal for parties or elegant gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in water and heat to boiling.
- Remove from heat and add flour and salt.
- Stir vigorously until mixture forms a ball and leaves sides of the pan.
- Let cool.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating until smooth.
- Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls onto a greased baking sheet.
- Bake at 400°F for approximately 20 minutes or until brown.
- Cool and split center, then fill with chicken salad or any party filling.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your water and margarine mixture reaches a rolling boil before adding the flour. If you find the dough too thick, you can add a tablespoon of water at a time until it reaches the desired consistency. You can substitute margarine with butter for a richer flavor, or use a dairy-free alternative for a vegan version. Consider trying this dough for other fillings, similar to the Party Spinach Cups.
Serving Suggestions
These tiny puffs can be served as appetizers or snacks at gatherings. They are perfect for filling with chicken salad or any party filling, such as a savory cheese mixture or a creamy dip. Pair them with a side of fresh vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal. They also go well with drinks, making them a great addition to any festive occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover tiny 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 until warmed through, which helps maintain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tiny Puffs contains roughly 483 calories, with 2g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2157mg per serving (94% 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 in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead of time. Once the mixture cools, store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before adding the eggs and proceeding with the recipe. This will help maintain the right texture.
What can I use to fill these puffs besides chicken salad?
These puffs are incredibly versatile! You can fill them with a variety of mixtures, such as tuna salad, cream cheese and herbs, or even sweet fillings like pastry cream or whipped cream for a dessert twist. Experiment with different flavors to suit your preference.
Can I freeze tiny puffs?
Yes, you can freeze tiny puffs after baking. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F until heated through, about 10-15 minutes, for best texture.
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).