Mom’s Famous Cream Puffs

Mom’s Famous Cream Puffs

Ingredients

• 1 stick of butter
• 1/2 cup water
• 1.25 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs

For the Filling:

• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 container (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 cup milk

Preparation

1. In a saucepan, combine the butter, water, and vanilla extract. Bring to a boil.
2. Once boiling, add the flour all at once. Stir continuously until the mixture begins to pull away from the sides of the pan and forms a ball. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
3. Gradually add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition until the mixture is smooth and combined.
4. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 40 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown. For best results, use multiple baking sheets to achieve larger puffs.
5. Expert Tip: After baking, prick each puff with a toothpick to release steam. Return them to the oven with the door slightly ajar and turn off the heat. Let them cool in the oven to prevent them from collapsing.
6. Once cooled, cut the puffs in half and fill with the prepared cream filling. Optionally, top with melted chocolate or dust with powdered sugar.

For the Filling:

1. In a mixer, combine the heavy cream, instant vanilla pudding mix, and milk. Beat until thickened and smooth.

Enjoy your homemade cream puffs!