Nutella Strawberries & Cream Puffs
Ingredients:
For the Choux Pastry:
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 4 large eggs
For the Filling:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup Nutella (or more, depending on preference)
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
Optional Garnishes:
– Powdered sugar (for dusting)
– Chocolate drizzle
– Fresh mint leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
– Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Prepare the Choux Pastry:
– In a medium saucepan, combine water, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, ensuring the butter melts completely.
– Remove from heat and add flour all at once. Stir vigorously until the mixture forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the pan’s sides.
– Return the pan to low heat, stirring constantly for 1–2 minutes to slightly dry the dough. Transfer to a mixing bowl and let cool for 5 minutes.
3. Incorporate the Eggs:
– Beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. The dough should be smooth, shiny, and slightly sticky.
4. Pipe and Bake:
– Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe small mounds (about 1–1.5 inches in diameter) onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them appropriately.
– Smooth any peaks with a wet fingertip.
– Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and firm. Avoid opening the oven during baking to prevent collapsing.
– After baking, turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let the puffs sit for 5 minutes to dry. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Prepare the Filling:
– In a mixing bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
– Gently fold in Nutella to create a marbled effect or layer it separately for distinct flavors.
– Dice strawberries into small pieces and set aside.
6. Assemble the Cream Puffs:
– Using a sharp knife or piping tip, create a small hole in the bottom of each puff.
– Fill a piping bag with the Nutella whipped cream and pipe into the puffs. Alternatively, layer whipped cream and diced strawberries inside the puffs for added texture.
– Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for an elegant finish. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
7. Serve:
– Enjoy these delightful cream puffs immediately for the best taste and texture