Are you ready to satisfy your sweet tooth and indulge in a heavenly dessert? If you’ve never tried profiteroles before, you’re in for a treat! These delightful pastries are made using a light and fluffy choux pastry, filled with a rich and creamy chocolate custard. But why stop there? You can also whip up some sweet and creamy cream puffs or delicious eclairs using the same basic recipe.
One of the most important facts to know about making cream puffs is that the choux pastry is the key to their success. The dough is made using a combination of flour, butter, eggs, and milk. The heavy use of eggs is what gives the pastry its light and airy texture, and the milk helps to create a tender and fluffy interior.
When making the choux pastry, it’s essential to cook it on the stove until the dough comes away from the sides of the pan and forms a ball. This will ensure that the pastry holds its shape while baking and doesn’t collapse. Once the dough is prepared, you can pipe it onto baking pans and pop them into the oven at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown and puffed up.
While the cream puffs are baking, you can prepare the chocolate custard filling. It’s important to make the custard in advance and let it cool completely before using it to fill the cream puffs. This will ensure that it thickens up and sets properly. Once the cream puffs are baked and cooled, you can remove the tops and fill them with the creamy chocolate custard.
The final step is to enjoy your homemade chocolate cream puffs! They are best served fresh, but if you want to make them ahead of time, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Just make sure to keep the custard separate until you’re ready to serve, as it can make the pastry soggy if left inside for too long.
So don’t wait any longer! Whip up a batch of these heavenly chocolate cream puffs and prepare to be transported to dessert paradise. Whether you enjoy them on their own, or with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top, you’ll be amazed at the rich and decadent flavors that these little pastries deliver.
Below, you’ll find the full recipe and instructions, as well as some handy tips and FAQs related to making cream puffs. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a dessert that’s truly worth every calorie!
Nutrition Facts per serving
Indulging in heavenly chocolate cream puffs may be delightful, but it’s important to be aware of the nutrition facts per serving. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
- Calories: The calorie content will vary depending on the size and ingredients of the cream puffs. On average, each cream puff can contain around 150-200 calories.
- Protein: Cream puffs are not a significant source of protein. Each serving typically contains less than 5 grams.
- Fat: Cream puffs can be high in fat, especially if made with butter and filled with a creamy chocolate filling. Each serving can have around 10-15 grams of fat.
- Carbohydrates: The main component of cream puffs is the choux pastry crust, which is made from flour, butter, and eggs. Each serving can contain around 25-30 grams of carbohydrates.
- Sugar: Cream puffs are typically sweetened with powdered sugar or chocolate. Each serving can have 10-15 grams of sugar.
- Fiber: Cream puffs are not a good source of fiber as they are made with refined flour and do not contain any fruits or vegetables.
- Sodium: Depending on the recipe, cream puffs can have a moderate amount of sodium. Each serving can contain around 100-200 milligrams.
It’s important to note that the nutrition values provided are approximate and can vary depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used. If you have any specific dietary concerns or restrictions, it’s always a good idea to consult a nutritionist or do further research on the ingredients and preparation methods.
While cream puffs can be a delicious treat to enjoy, it’s best to consume them in moderation and as part of a balanced diet. Store-bought or pre-prepared cream puffs may have higher calorie and fat content, so homemade versions can be a healthier option.
Remember to store baked cream puffs in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They can last for up to 2-3 days at room temperature, but for longer storage, it’s recommended to freeze them. To freeze cream puffs, ensure they are completely cooled and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 2 months in the freezer. To enjoy frozen cream puffs, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Recipe Notes
Here are some helpful recipe notes and tips to ensure your chocolate cream puffs turn out perfect:
| Pans | Use non-stick pans or line your pans with parchment paper to prevent the cream puffs from sticking. |
| Whip the Cream | Be sure to whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form for a creamy and satisfying texture. |
| Custard Instructions | Follow the custard instructions closely to ensure a smooth and delicious filling. |
| Preheat Oven | Preheat your oven to the specified temperature before baking the cream puffs. |
| Cornstarch | Make sure the cornstarch is completely blended with the milk to avoid lumps in your custard. |
| Store-Bought Graham Cracker Crumbs | If using store-bought graham cracker crumbs, make sure to check the contents for cinnamon or additional flavorings. Some brands may include these ingredients. |
| Storing Cream Puffs | Cream puffs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, they are best enjoyed fresh. |
| Nutrition Facts | Please note that the nutrition facts provided are per serving and may vary slightly depending on the size of each cream puff. |
| Easy Version | If you’re looking for an easier version of this recipe, you can use store-bought cream puffs or profiteroles and simply fill them with the prepared chocolate custard. |
These recipe notes and tips should help you achieve the best results when making these heavenly chocolate cream puffs. Enjoy!
Here are more related recipes
If you can’t get enough of cream puffs, here are a few more delectable recipes for you to try:
1. Profiteroles: Similar to cream puffs, profiteroles are small, bite-sized pastries that are filled with thick pastry cream. The main difference is that profiteroles are often served with a rich chocolate sauce poured on top.
2. Eclairs: Eclairs are elongated versions of cream puffs, filled with a sweet custard cream and topped with a thick chocolate glaze. They are a bit more complex to make, but oh so worth it!
3. Cinnamon Sugar Puffs: For a twist on the classic cream puff, try making cinnamon sugar puffs. Simply mix cinnamon and sugar together, then sprinkle it over the baked and cooled cream puffs. It adds a delicious touch of warmth and sweetness to the dessert.
4. Chocolate Chip Cookie Cream Puffs: If you love chocolate chip cookies, you’ll adore this version of cream puffs. Just mix chopped semi-sweet chocolate chips into the pastry cream filling before piping it into the puffs. It’s a heavenly combination!
5. Miniature Cream Puff Cake: This recipe takes cream puffs to a whole new level. Instead of making individual puffs, you’ll use the same dough to bake two large layers. Once cooled, fill the layers with pastry cream and stack them to create a stunning cake-like dessert.
These recipes offer different variations on the classic cream puff and are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you’re a fan of chocolate, cinnamon, or simplicity, you’ll find a recipe here that suits your taste buds.
Ingredients
Making the perfect chocolate cream puffs requires a handful of delicious and creamy ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Choux Pastry:
- 1 cup of water
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
For the Filling:
- 2 cups of heavy cream
- 1/4 cup of powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Sauce:
- 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup of milk
Additional ingredients you may want to have on hand:
- Cinnamon
- Graham cracker crumbs
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the directions for this heavenly dessert delight.
The Best Cream Puff Cake Recipe
If you’re a fan of cream puffs, you’ll absolutely love this delicious cream puff cake recipe. It’s a perfect dessert for any occasion and is sure to impress your family and friends. This recipe combines the airy choux pastry of cream puffs with a creamy and indulgent filling. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– ½ cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 4 large eggs
– 2 cups heavy cream
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and butter and heat over medium heat until the butter is melted. Stir in the flour until the mixture forms a ball.
3. Transfer the mixture to a mixing bowl and let it cool for a few minutes. Using a mixer on low speed, add the eggs one at a time, until fully incorporated.
4. Divide the dough between the prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
5. In a separate mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
6. Melt the chopped chocolate in a microwave or using a double boiler. Let it cool slightly before folding it into the whipped cream mixture.
7. Gently slice each cream puff cake in half horizontally, creating two layers. Spread a generous amount of the chocolate cream filling onto the bottom layer and place the top layer back on.
8. Optional: You can also drizzle additional melted chocolate over the top for added indulgence.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy every creamy bite!
Notes and Tips:
– Make sure to store the cream puff cake in the refrigerator until ready to serve, as the creamy filling can soften if left at room temperature for too long.
– To make profiteroles, simply use a pastry bag fitted with a small round tip to pipe smaller cream puffs. Bake them in the same manner and fill them with the same chocolate cream filling.
– You can also make a lighter version of this cake by using whipped cream instead of the chocolate cream filling.
– If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use store-bought cream puffs instead of making my own?
A: While store-bought cream puffs can be used, the homemade version is often more delicious and satisfying.
Q: What is the best way to store leftover cream puff cake?
A: To keep the cake from becoming soggy, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Q: Can I use a different type of filling for the cream puffs?
A: Yes, you can get creative and use different fillings such as custard or whipped cream.
For more information on the nutrition facts and calorie values of cream puffs and related recipes, please refer to the full contents below.
More Easy Custard Recipes
If you enjoyed the heavenly chocolate cream puffs recipe above, you’ll be delighted to know that there are many more easy custard recipes you can try. Whether you prefer a creamy vanilla custard or a rich chocolate custard, the possibilities are endless.
Boston Cream Pie
One classic custard-filled dessert is the Boston Cream Pie. This delightful cake is filled with a smooth and creamy vanilla custard and topped with a luscious chocolate ganache. It’s the perfect dessert to impress your guests with.
Cinnamon Custard
If you’re a fan of cinnamon, you’ll love this cinnamon custard recipe. It combines the warmth of cinnamon with the creaminess of custard, creating a truly decadent dessert. Serve it warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for a cozy treat.
To make these custard recipes, you’ll need some common ingredients like milk, eggs, sugar, and cornstarch. The directions are similar to the chocolate cream puffs recipe. Start by preheating your oven and preparing the custard according to the recipe instructions. While the custard is cooking, you can make the crust or cake for the dessert. Once everything is prepared, it’s just a matter of assembling the dessert and enjoying!
When making custard desserts, it’s important to note that the temperature plays a significant role in achieving the perfect consistency. Be sure to follow the recipe instructions carefully and bring the custard to the right temperature. This will ensure that your custard sets properly and doesn’t collapse.
If you’re wondering how long you can store custard desserts, the answer depends on the specific recipe. Some custard desserts can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, while others are best enjoyed fresh. Be sure to read the recipe notes for any instructions related to storing and serving.
For those watching their calorie intake, custard desserts can be a calorie-dense treat. However, you can reduce the calorie content by using low-fat milk and reducing the amount of sugar in the recipe. It’s also worth noting that custard desserts can be quite filling, so smaller serving sizes may be appropriate.
Before you dive into making more custard desserts, take some time to research the nutritional values of the ingredients you’ll be using. This will give you a better understanding of the nutritional content of your desserts and help you make informed choices.
If you have any questions about making custard desserts, check the FAQs section below. It covers common questions related to custard making and provides helpful tips and tricks.
FAQ
What are the ingredients for the chocolate cream puffs?
The ingredients for the chocolate cream puffs include eggs, butter, water, flour, salt, milk, sugar, cornstarch, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and heavy cream.
How do I make the chocolate cream filling for the cream puffs?
To make the chocolate cream filling, you will need to heat milk and sugar in a saucepan until it starts to simmer. In a separate bowl, whisk together cornstarch, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the simmering milk, whisking constantly until it thickens. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let the mixture cool completely before folding in whipped heavy cream.
Can I make the cream puffs ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cream puffs ahead of time. Once baked, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days. Before serving, you can reheat them in a 325°F oven for a few minutes to restore crispness.
