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In a medium saucepan, combine water, butter, and salt. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
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Once the butter is melted, quickly stir in the flour all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
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Remove from heat and allow to cool for 5–10 minutes.
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Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. The dough will become glossy and smooth.
2. Shape and Bake the Puffs:
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Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Using a piping bag or spoon, form small mounds (about 2 inches wide) on the baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
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Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
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Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.
3. Prepare the Custard:
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In a medium saucepan, warm the milk over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.
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In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks until smooth and pale.
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Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
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Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency.
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Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
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Cover the custard with plastic wrap (pressing it directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming) and let it cool fully.
4. Assemble the Cream Puffs:
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Once both the cream puffs and custard have cooled, slice the puffs in half or make a small hole in the bottom.
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Pipe the custard into each puff using a piping bag fitted with a round tip, or spoon it in generously.
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Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra special touch.
💡 Tips & Tricks
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Make sure the choux dough cools slightly before adding eggs to prevent scrambling.
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Don’t open the oven while baking—the steam is what makes the puffs rise!
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Custard too thick? Add a splash of milk and whisk it smooth.
🥄 Serving Suggestion
Serve these cream puffs chilled for a refreshing treat, or slightly warmed if you like contrast between warm pastry and cool filling. They’re perfect for tea time, celebrations, or just a little nostalgic indulgence.