Profiteroles de Crema Pastelera

Profiteroles de Crema Pastelera are delightful puff pastry shells filled with a smooth and rich pastry cream. These sweet, airy treats are perfect for any occasion and are sure to impress with their delicate texture and delicious filling. They’re a classic pastry that combines light, crispy dough with creamy custard for a decadent dessert.

Ingredients

• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 eggs
• 1 batch Crema Pastelera (pastry cream)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a medium saucepan, bring the water, butter, and salt to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, add the flour all at once, stirring constantly until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
2. Cool the Dough: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool for about 5 minutes.
3. Add the Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the dough is smooth and glossy.
4. Pipe the Dough: Transfer the dough to a piping bag and pipe small mounds (about the size of a walnut) onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and puffed. Do not open the oven door during baking.
6. Cool the Profiteroles: Once baked, let the profiteroles cool on a wire rack.
7. Fill with Crema Pastelera: Once the profiteroles are cooled, cut a small slit in the side or bottom of each and pipe in the Crema Pastelera using a piping bag.
8. Finish and Serve: Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 12 profiteroles

Variations

• Flavor Variations: Try adding a splash of vanilla extract or a tablespoon of liqueur (such as Grand Marnier or amaretto) to the pastry cream for an extra layer of flavor.
• Chocolate Profiteroles: Drizzle melted chocolate or dip the profiteroles in chocolate ganache for a rich finish.
• Fruit Filling: Instead of Crema Pastelera, you can fill the profiteroles with whipped cream and fresh berries for a light and fruity twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the profiteroles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The shells are best eaten the same day they are made, but they will keep for a day or two.
• Reheating: If you prefer warm profiteroles, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5 minutes before serving.

10 FAQs

1. What is Crema Pastelera? Crema Pastelera is a rich, custard-like pastry cream made from milk, sugar, eggs, and vanilla, thickened with cornstarch or flour.
2. Can I make profiteroles in advance? Yes, you can prepare the shells a day ahead and store them in an airtight container. Fill them with pastry cream just before serving.
3. Can I freeze profiteroles? Yes, you can freeze the baked shells without filling. Once they are cooled, store them in a freezer bag for up to a month. Fill them after thawing.
4. Can I use whipped cream instead of Crema Pastelera? Yes, you can substitute whipped cream for the pastry cream for a lighter filling.
5. How do I make sure the profiteroles puff up correctly? Ensure your dough is smooth and glossy, and bake at a high temperature without opening the oven door until they are done.
6. Can I make the dough ahead of time? It’s best to pipe and bake the dough right after it’s made, as resting the dough can affect the puffing process.
7. How do I know when the profiteroles are done baking? They should be golden brown and crisp to the touch. A dry, hollow sound when tapped on the bottom is a good indication they are ready.
8. Can I add other fillings? Yes, you can fill them with ice cream, chocolate mousse, or even savory fillings like cheese or ham for a different take.
9. What should I do if the profiteroles don’t puff up? Ensure the oven is preheated, and avoid opening the oven door during baking. Also, make sure the dough is smooth and glossy.
10. What is the best way to pipe the filling into the profiteroles? Use a piping bag with a small round tip to gently insert the pastry cream into the profiteroles without tearing the delicate shell.

Conclusion

Profiteroles de Crema Pastelera are a classic and elegant dessert that combines the crispy goodness of puff pastry with the smooth, rich filling of Crema Pastelera. These delightful treats are perfect for special occasions or as a sweet ending to any meal. With their light, airy texture and decadent filling, they are sure to impress your guests!

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