Cream puffs

Delicious Choux à la Crème Recipe (Cream Puffs with Vanilla Cream)

This Choux à la Crème recipe is a true delight, perfectly blending the light texture of the puffs with the smooth vanilla cream. Thinking back to the first time I savored these treats, I remembered how much I loved them when I was a student. Now, with this simple recipe, you can recreate those joyful moments in your own kitchen. Let’s get started!

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 12-15 puffs

Ingredients:

*For the puffs:*
- 300 ml water
- 125 g butter (about 1/2 package)
- 1.5 cups flour (about 190 g)
- 4 large eggs

*For the vanilla cream:*
- 3 large eggs
- 1.5 l sweet milk
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 1 vial vanilla essence

*For the glaze:*
- 3 teaspoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons cocoa
- 2 tablespoons sweet milk

Preparation:

*Step 1: Making the vanilla cream*
We start with the vanilla cream, which is the soul of this recipe. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the 3 eggs and 5 tablespoons of sugar. Add the 4 tablespoons of flour and mix until the composition is homogeneous. Then, gradually pour in the sweet milk, continuing to stir. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly. You will notice the cream thickening as it reaches boiling point. Allow it to boil for 5 minutes, stirring continuously to prevent sticking. Once the cream has thickened, set it aside to cool. After cooling, add the vanilla sugar and vanilla essence, mixing well. Now you have a delicious vanilla cream to fill the puffs.

*Step 2: Making the puffs*
In another saucepan, bring 300 ml of water and 125 g of butter to a boil. When the mixture starts to boil, gradually add the 1.5 cups of flour, stirring quickly with a spatula. You will notice the dough becoming thick and pulling away from the sides of the saucepan. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to dry it out a bit. Once the dough is ready, let it cool slightly. Then, add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next one. This step is essential for achieving a light and fluffy texture.

*Step 3: Baking the puffs*
Once the dough is ready, refrigerate it for about an hour. This will help the puffs rise evenly. Meanwhile, prepare a baking tray with parchment paper. Using a spoon or a piping bag, shape the puffs on the prepared tray, making sure to keep them medium-sized as they will expand while baking. Preheat the oven to 200°C and place the tray inside. Bake for 25 minutes or until the puffs are golden and slightly firm to the touch. Do not open the oven in the first 20 minutes to prevent the puffs from collapsing.

*Step 4: Filling the puffs*
Once the puffs are completely cooled, carefully cut them on one side without splitting them completely. Fill them with the vanilla cream using a spoon or piping bag. Now we are ready for the glaze!

*Step 5: Making the glaze*
In a small saucepan, combine the 3 teaspoons of sugar, 2 tablespoons of cocoa, and 2 tablespoons of sweet milk. Place the saucepan over low heat and stir until the mixture becomes homogeneous and slightly thicker. Pour the glaze over the filled puffs and let it cool slightly before serving.

Useful tips:
- Make sure the eggs are at room temperature before using them, as this helps with better emulsification of the dough.
- You can also add a bit of whipped cream to the vanilla cream for an even airier texture.
- If you want a variation, try adding a bit of coffee or melted chocolate to the vanilla cream for a different flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
The puffs contain protein from the eggs, calcium from the milk, and healthy fats from the butter, making them a good choice for an occasional snack. However, considering the sugar and calorie content, it’s best to enjoy them in moderation.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but the puffs will have a different and denser texture.

2. How can I keep the puffs from getting soggy?
It’s best to fill them with the vanilla cream just before serving. If you want to prepare them in advance, keep the puffs plain and fill them with cream on the day of serving.

3. What other variations can I try?
You can experiment with different flavors for the cream, such as almond or lemon, or you can add pieces of fruit to the vanilla cream.

These Choux à la Crème are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a party, an anniversary, or just a treat for yourself on the weekend. Enjoy!