Mom’s Famous Cream Puffs

Ingredients:

• For the Choux Pastry (Pâte à Choux):
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 large eggs
• For the Cream Filling:
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Chocolate Glaze (Optional):
  • 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Choux Pastry:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • In a medium saucepan, combine water, butter, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
   • Reduce heat to low and add the flour all at once, stirring constantly until the dough pulls away from the sides of the pan and forms a smooth ball.
   • Remove from heat and let the dough cool for about 5 minutes. Beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. The dough should become smooth and shiny.
2. Bake the Pastry:
   • Spoon or pipe the dough into 12 evenly-sized mounds onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the puffs are golden brown and puffed up. Do not open the oven during baking.
   • Once baked, remove from the oven and pierce each puff with a small knife to release steam. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
3. Prepare the Cream Filling:
   • In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
4. Fill the Cream Puffs:
   • Slice the cooled cream puffs in half or cut a small opening at the side. Fill each puff with the whipped cream using a piping bag or spoon.
5. Prepare the Chocolate Glaze (Optional):
   • In a small saucepan or microwave, heat the cream until warm, then pour it over the chocolate chips. Stir until smooth and glossy.
   • Drizzle or dip the tops of the filled cream puffs with the chocolate glaze.
6. Serve:
   • Allow the glaze to set before serving, or refrigerate the cream puffs for a chilled treat.

Nutritional Analysis and Health Benefits:

• Calories: Each cream puff (with filling) contains approximately 200-250 calories.
• Proteins: Moderate protein content from eggs and cream, important for tissue repair and maintenance.
• Carbohydrates: The carbohydrates come mainly from flour and sugar, providing quick energy.
• Fats: Contains fats from butter, cream, and eggs, which are essential for healthy brain function and energy.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Eggs provide vitamin B12, necessary for red blood cell production, while cream offers calcium for bone health.

Health Impact:

• Energy Boost: The combination of carbohydrates and fats provides a quick energy source, making these a satisfying dessert.
• Bone Health: The calcium content from the cream is beneficial for bone health, though consumption should be moderate due to the fat content.
• Mood Enhancement: The chocolate glaze contains antioxidants from the cocoa, which may contribute to mood improvement.

Mom’s Famous Cream Puffs are a delightful and indulgent dessert, perfect for special occasions or family gatherings. The light, airy pastry paired with sweet, rich cream and optional chocolate glaze creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. While these cream puffs are a delicious treat, they are also high in calories and fats, so it’s best to enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.