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In the realm of desserts, few treats are as enchanting as cream puffs. These delicate pastries are a celebration of texture and flavor, consisting of a light and airy shell filled with rich pastry cream and often adorned with a dollop of whipped cream. Known affectionately as “Mom’s Delightful Cream Puffs,” this recipe encapsulates the warmth and love that homemade desserts can offer. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a tea party, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, these cream puffs are sure to impress your family and friends.

Mom’s Famous Cream Puffs

Discover the art of crafting Mom’s Delightful Cream Puffs, a timeless dessert that brings joy to any occasion. This guide takes you through the essentials of creating light and airy choux pastry filled with rich pastry cream and topped with fluffy whipped cream. Learn the science behind the dough, essential ingredients, and step-by-step instructions for perfecting this classic treat. Celebrate special moments or indulge in everyday sweetness with these delectable pastries that evoke cherished memories.
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Ingredients
  

For the Choux Pastry:

1 cup (250ml) water

1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cut into cubes

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour

4 large eggs

For the Pastry Cream Filling:

2 cups (500ml) whole milk

1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar

1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch

1/4 teaspoon salt

4 large egg yolks

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Whipped Cream Topping:

1 cup (240ml) heavy cream

2 tablespoons powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Toppings:

Melted chocolate or caramel sauce

Powdered sugar for dusting

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Instructions
 

Prep the Choux Pastry:

    - In a medium saucepan, combine water, butter, and salt. Heat over medium until the butter melts and the mixture begins to boil.

      - Once boiling, remove from heat and stir in the flour until the mixture forms a ball, pulling away from the sides of the pan. Allow it to cool for about 5 minutes.

        - Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the dough is smooth and glossy.

          Shape the Puff Pastry:

            - Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

              - Use a piping bag fitted with a large round tip to pipe small rounds (about 1.5 inches in diameter) onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

                - For even sizes, you can also use a tablespoon to drop rounded mounds of dough.

                  Bake the Puffs:

                    - Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are puffed up and golden brown. Do not open the oven door while they are baking.

                      - Remove from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

                        Make the Pastry Cream Filling:

                          - In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it’s steaming (not boiling).

                            - In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Add egg yolks and whisk until smooth. Gradually pour in the hot milk while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.

                              - Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat.

                                - Stir in the vanilla extract and butter until melted and combined. Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (pressing it directly against the surface), and cool it in the refrigerator.

                                  Whip the Cream:

                                    - In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat.

                                      Assemble the Cream Puffs:

                                        - Once the choux pastry shells are cool, carefully slice the tops off each puff with a sharp knife.

                                          - Fill each puff generously with the cooled pastry cream and then top it off with the whipped cream before replacing the top.

                                            Add Optional Toppings:

                                              - Drizzle with melted chocolate or caramel sauce, or dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

                                                Serve:

                                                  - Arrange the cream puffs on a serving platter and enjoy the delightful combination of creamy filling and airy pastry!

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                                                      Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 12 cream puffs