Ingredients
For the Cream Puffs:
– 1 stick butter (½ cup)
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon vanilla
– 1 cup flour
– 4 eggs
For Mom’s Celebrated Filling:
– ½ quart (2 cups) heavy cream
– 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding
– ⅓ cup milk
Instructions
Prepare the Cream Puffs:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a saucepan, bring the water, butter, and vanilla to a boil.
3. Add the flour and stir constantly until the mixture leaves the sides of the pot and forms a ball.
4. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
5. Beat in the eggs one at a time until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
6. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto parchment-lined cookie sheets (about 8 large puffs).
7. Bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
8. Optional: After baking, poke each puff with a toothpick and return them to the oven with the door slightly open to cool. This helps prevent deflating.
Prepare the Filling:
1. In a blender or mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, instant vanilla pudding, and milk until thick and fluffy.
Assemble the Cream Puffs:
1. Let the baked puffs cool completely.
2. Slice each puff in half horizontally.
3. Pipe or scoop the filling into the bottom half of each puff, then replace the top.
4. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra touch.
Tips for Perfect Cream Puffs
1. Pâte à Choux Consistency:
– The dough should be smooth and glossy after adding the eggs. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water or milk to loosen it.
2. Piping the Dough:
– For uniform puffs, use a piping bag with a round tip or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off.
3. Baking Tips:
– Avoid opening the oven door during baking, as this can cause the puffs to collapse.
– Bake until the puffs are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
4. Preventing Deflation:
– Poking a small hole in each puff after baking and letting them cool in the oven (with the door slightly open) helps release steam and prevents deflation.
5. Filling Tips:
– Chill the filling for 15-20 minutes before assembling to make it easier to pipe.
– Use a piping bag with a star tip for a decorative touch.
