Ingredients
Choux Pastry






Pastry Cream












Craquelin






Cream Cheese Filling









Berry Filling
Instructions
Step 1
In a mixing bowl, combine butter, sugar, and flour until a soft dough forms. Roll the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to about 0.5 cm thick.
Freeze the dough and then cut out circles that will fit the tops of your pastries. Keep them in the freezer until ready to use.
Step 2
In a saucepan, heat together water, milk, butter, salt, and sugar until it comes to a boil. Remove it from heat and quickly add all the flour.
Stir vigorously for about 2-3 minutes until a smooth ball forms and a film appears at the bottom of the pan. Allow it to cool for 5-10 minutes, then add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
The finished dough should slowly flow off the spoon in a triangle shape. Transfer the dough into a pastry bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Step 3
Pipe the choux pastry onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space for them to expand; aim for about 4-5 cm in diameter.
Top each pastry with a circle of cracquelin and bake in a preheated oven at 170°C (340°F) for 45-55 minutes until they are golden brown.
Do not open the oven door for the first 40 minutes! Let them cool on a wire rack.
Step 4
In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks with sugar, vanilla sugar, and cornstarch. Heat milk in a saucepan and gradually incorporate it into the egg mixture.
Return this mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly until it thickens. Remove from heat and add in butter, allowing it to cool to room temperature.
Refrigerate for 2-3 hours. Once chilled, whip with the mascarpone until light and airy.
Servings
Once you've created your exquisite pastries, it's time to serve them in style! Consider a gorgeous platter adorned with fresh berries on the side 🍓🍇. Drizzle a bit of blueberry sauce over the puffs for an eye-catching and flavorful touch.
For a more interactive experience, why not create a DIY dessert bar? Set up a table with a variety of toppings such as melted chocolate, whipped cream, and more fruit. Your guests will love customizing their own pastries!
Lastly, don’t forget to pair your beautiful pastries with a refreshing drink. A nice cup of tea or coffee complements the sweetness perfectly, enhancing the whole experience. Enjoy! ☕💖
Equipment
These are essential for shaping your puff pastries. Choose silicone or disposable ones for easy cleanup. Make sure the tip is large enough to allow the thick batter to flow easily!
A non-stick surface is critical for ensuring that your puff pastries don’t stick. If using parchment paper, be sure it’s securely laid flat on the baking tray.
You'll need various sizes for mixing dough and whipping cream. If you can, go for glass or stainless steel for durability and ease of cleaning!
A handheld whisk will be perfect for beating egg yolks and cream. You can also use an electric mixer if you prefer a quicker method!



Variations
If you're looking for an inclusive way to enjoy these pastries, you’re in luck! Here are some quick variations to cater to your dietary needs.
Gluten-Free Option: Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. Ensure your other ingredients do not contain gluten as well. 🍞🚫
Vegan Variation: For a plant-based twist, swap eggs with a 1/4 cup of applesauce for each egg and use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk. Opt for vegan butter for the dough and use coconut cream as a base for your frosting. 🌱✨
Faq
- What should I do if my pastry puffs don’t rise?
Be sure to let the dough cook long enough. Insufficient baking time can prevent proper rising.
- How can I tell when my pastries are done baking?
Your pastries should be golden brown and firm to the touch. They should also sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just ensure you pipe it out fresh before baking for the best texture.
- What’s the best filling for cream puffs?
While custard is classic, feel free to experiment with flavored creams or ganaches. Just make sure it has a smooth consistency!
- How do I prevent my cream from curdling?
Always temper your eggs by gradually adding some warm milk to them before cooking on the stove. This will keep the mixture smooth and creamy!
- Can I freeze these pastries?
Yes! Bake and cool the pastries, then freeze them without filling. Just defrost and fill them when you're ready to enjoy.