Ingredients with Measurements:
-1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
-1 cup water
-1 cup all-purpose flour
-4 large eggs
-1/2 teaspoon salt
-1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
-1/2 cup heavy cream
-1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
Special Equipment Needed:
-Medium saucepan
-Whisk
-Large bowl
-Electric mixer
-Piping bag
-Baking sheet
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add water and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and add flour all at once, stirring vigorously with a whisk until the mixture forms a ball.
4. Remove from heat and transfer the mixture to a large bowl.
5. Using an electric mixer, beat in the eggs, one at a time, until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
6. Stir in the salt and chocolate chips.
7. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip.
8. Pipe the mixture onto a baking sheet in 1-inch rounds, about 2 inches apart.
9. Bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. In a medium bowl, beat the heavy cream and confectioners' sugar until stiff peaks form.
11. Transfer the cream to a piping bag fitted with a small star tip.
12. When the puffs are cool, pipe the cream into the center of each puff.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Temperature: 400°F
Serving Size: Makes about 24 puffs
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 135
Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 3g
Substitutions for Ingredients:
-Butter: margarine or vegetable shortening
-Heavy cream: evaporated milk or coconut cream
-Semi-sweet chocolate chips: dark chocolate chips or white chocolate chips
Variations:
-Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream filling
-Substitute the semi-sweet chocolate chips with peanut butter chips
-Sprinkle the puffs with chopped nuts before baking
Tips and Tricks:
-Make sure the butter is completely melted before adding the water.
-Be sure to beat the eggs in one at a time to ensure a smooth and glossy texture.
-Pipe the cream into the center of the puffs just before serving.
Storage Instructions:
Store the puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat the puffs in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the puffs on a platter with fresh berries and a dusting of confectioners' sugar.
Garnishes:
-Fresh berries
-Confectioners' sugar
-Chocolate shavings
Pairings:
-Coffee
-Tea
-Hot chocolate
Suggested Side Dishes:
-Fruit salad
-Cheese platter
-Green salad
Troubleshooting Advice:
-If the puffs are not rising properly, make sure the oven is preheated to the correct temperature.
-If the puffs are too dry, add a tablespoon of water to the mixture before piping.
Food Safety Advice:
-Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before beginning.
-Refrigerate any leftovers promptly.
Food History:
Cream puffs have been a popular dessert in France since the 18th century. The original recipe called for cream, butter, eggs, and flour, and was served with a dusting of confectioners' sugar.
Flavor Profiles:
This recipe has a rich and creamy flavor with hints of chocolate and sweetness from the confectioners' sugar.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the puffs with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A
Taste: Rich, Creamy, Chocolatey, Sweet, Indulgent