Italian Cream Puffs
Italian Cream Puffs are light and airy pastry shells filled with a rich, creamy filling, creating a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s perfect for special occasions or a simple treat.
Ingredients
For the choux pastry
- 1 cup water Used to create the dough
- ½ cup butter, unsalted Provides richness to the pastry
- 1 cup all-purpose flour Main ingredient for the dough
- ½ teaspoon salt Enhances flavor
- 4 large eggs Binding agent for the dough
For the filling
- 2 cups heavy cream Main component of the filling
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar Sweetens the cream filling
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds flavor to the filling
For the topping
- Cocoa powder or powdered sugar Optional for dusting before serving
Instructions
Prepare the Choux Pastry
- In a medium-sized pan, bring the water and butter to a simmer.
- Once the butter has melted, remove from heat and stir in salt and flour.
- Mix well until it forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Allow to cool slightly, then add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until smooth and glossy.
Shape the Puffs
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Use a piping bag or spoon to dollop the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each puff.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and puffed. Do not open the oven door while baking.
Prepare the Cream Filling
- In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Be careful not to over-whip, as you want a smooth and fluffy texture.
Fill the Pastry
- Allow the puffs to cool completely before filling them.
- Use a piping bag or a small spoon to fill each puff with the whipped cream mixture.
Serve
- Dust with cocoa powder or powdered sugar before serving for that extra touch of sweetness. Enjoy your Italian Cream Puffs!
Notes
Serve Italian Cream Puffs with espresso or dessert wine to enhance the experience. These puffs can be stored unfilled in the freezer for a month or more. Always fill them shortly before serving to maintain crisp texture.