Description
Enjoy the light and airy texture of Nun’s Puffs, a delightful pastry made from choux dough infused with vanilla and almond. These golden treats can be served dusted with powdered sugar or filled with whipped cream, making them a perfect indulgent dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Whipped cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1/2 cup of unsalted butter. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to help the butter melt completely.
- Once the butter has melted and the water is boiling, remove the saucepan from the heat. Quickly add 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan (about 1-2 minutes).
- Let the dough cool for about 5 minutes to avoid cooking the eggs when added.
- After cooling slightly, add 4 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the dough is smooth and glossy.
- Stir in 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract (if using). Mix until well combined.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using a pastry bag fitted with a large round tip or a spoon, drop tablespoon-sized mounds of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each mound.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and have risen beautifully. Avoid opening the oven door during the first 15 minutes of baking.
- Remove the puffs from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once the puffs are completely cool, fill them with whipped cream if desired, either by slicing them in half or piping it directly into the center.
- Alternatively, dust the puffs with powdered sugar using a fine mesh sieve.
- Serve with a side of whipped cream or ice cream for added creaminess.
- Get creative with toppings like chocolate sauce, caramel, or fruit compote for extra flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Ensure the dough cools sufficiently before adding eggs to prevent them from cooking.
- For best results, avoid opening the oven door during the initial baking time to maintain puffiness.
- Feel free to experiment with different fillings and toppings to suit your taste!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes