Salted Caramel Cream Puffs are a delightful dessert that combines the lightness of choux pastry with a rich and creamy salted caramel filling. These elegant treats are perfect for any occasion, from special celebrations to a sweet indulgence after dinner. With a crispy outer shell and a luscious filling, they are sure to impress your family and friends. Follow this easy recipe to create your own batch of these delicious cream puffs!
Ingredients:
- For the Choux Pastry:
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- For the Salted Caramel Filling:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- For Garnish:
- Whipped cream (optional)
- Additional sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions:
- Prepare the Choux Pastry: In a medium saucepan, combine water and butter. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, remove from heat and add flour and salt all at once. Stir vigorously until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Incorporate Eggs: Allow the dough to cool for a few minutes. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the dough is smooth and glossy.
- Bake the Cream Puffs: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Use a piping bag to pipe small rounds of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
- Make the Salted Caramel: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar, stirring constantly until it turns a deep amber color. Carefully add butter and stir until melted. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in sea salt. Allow to cool slightly.
- Fill the Cream Puffs: Once the cream puffs have cooled, use a small knife to cut a slit in the side of each puff. Fill a piping bag with the salted caramel filling and pipe it into each cream puff until filled.
- Garnish: Optionally, top with whipped cream and sprinkle a little extra sea salt on top for that perfect finishing touch.
FAQs about Salted Caramel Cream Puffs
Can I make the choux pastry ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the choux pastry in advance. Just store the baked cream puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.
What can I use instead of heavy cream for the caramel?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but the caramel may not be as rich and creamy.
How do I store leftover cream puffs?
Store any leftover cream puffs in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, they are best enjoyed fresh.
Can I freeze cream puffs?
Yes, you can freeze the baked choux pastry. Just make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in an airtight container. Defrost them before filling.
What other fillings can I use for cream puffs?
Aside from salted caramel, you can fill cream puffs with vanilla pastry cream, chocolate mousse, or fruit-flavored whipped cream for a delightful twist.