Imagine biting into a cloud-like pastry that shatters delicately, revealing a luscious whipped cream center and a decadent chocolate drizzle. These aren't just any dessert - these are classic French cream puffs that transform ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary culinary masterpiece. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pastry chef, this recipe will transport you straight to a Parisian patisserie with its irresistible elegance and mouthwatering charm.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 12 puffs
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring it is well-prepared for the puffs to rise without sticking.
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1/2 cup of butter. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the butter is completely melted and the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
- Once the mixture is boiling, remove the saucepan from heat. Quickly add 1 cup of all-purpose flour all at once, stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Allow the dough to cool for about 5 minutes. This will help prevent the eggs from cooking when added.
- After cooling, add 4 large eggs one at a time, stirring well after each addition. The dough should become smooth and glossy. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Using a piping bag fitted with a large round tip, pipe the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, forming small mounds about 2 inches apart. Each mound should be roughly the size of a golf ball.
- Once all the dough is piped onto the baking sheet, use a wet finger to gently smooth the tops of each puff to ensure even baking.
- Bake the cream puffs in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Avoid opening the oven door during the first 20 minutes to ensure they rise properly.
- Once baked, remove the puffs from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely before filling.
- While the puffs are cooling, prepare the filling. In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream until stiff peaks form. You can add a bit of sugar or vanilla extract if desired for extra flavor.
- Once the puffs are cool, use a small knife to cut a slit in the side of each puff. Carefully fill each puff with the whipped cream using a piping bag or a spoon.
- For the chocolate drizzle, melt 1/2 cup of chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth and fully melted.
- Once melted, drizzle the chocolate over the filled cream puffs using a spoon or a piping bag for a more controlled drizzle.
- Allow the chocolate to set for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious cream puffs with chocolate drizzle!
Tips
- Temperature is crucial: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Be precise with your dough: Stir the flour mixture vigorously to create a smooth, cohesive ball.
- Egg incorporation matters: Add eggs one at a time and mix thoroughly to achieve the right glossy texture.
- Piping technique: Use a large round tip and maintain consistent size for even baking.
- Avoid oven peeking: Keep the oven door closed during the first 20 minutes to help puffs rise properly.
- Cooling is key: Let puffs cool completely before filling to prevent soggy pastry.
- Get creative with fillings: While whipped cream is classic, try pastry cream or flavored custards for variety.
- Chocolate drizzling hack: Use a spoon or piping bag for a professional-looking finish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 110mg
