Caramel Cream Puff Pastry (Profiteroles)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Choux Pastry

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a saucepan, bring water, butter, sugar, and salt to a boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat, add flour all at once, and stir vigorously until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides.
4. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
5. Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the dough is smooth and glossy.
6. Transfer the dough to a piping bag and pipe small mounds (about 1 ½ inches in diameter) onto the baking sheet.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown and puffed. Let cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Filling

8. In a bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
9. Transfer to a piping bag fitted with a small tip.
10. Once the puffs are cool, poke a hole in the bottom of each and pipe the cream inside until full.

Step 3: Make the Caramel Sauce

11. In a saucepan, heat sugar and water over medium heat without stirring, until it turns a deep amber color.
12. Carefully whisk in butter and heavy cream (it will bubble up!). Stir until smooth.
13. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before drizzling.

Step 4: Assemble & Serve

14. Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the filled cream puffs.
15. Serve immediately or chill for a cool, refreshing treat!

Tips for Perfect Profiteroles

✔ Use Room Temperature Eggs – Helps the dough mix smoothly.
✔ Don’t Open the Oven Door Too Soon – This keeps the puffs from deflating.
✔ Chill the Cream Puffs Before Filling – They hold their shape better.
✔ Make it Extra Decadent – Add a chocolate drizzle or a scoop of ice cream!

Perfect Pairings

☕ Espresso or Coffee – Balances the sweetness.
🍨 Vanilla Ice Cream – Creates a profiterole sundae!
🍫 Chocolate Ganache – Drizzle for an extra indulgence.

These Caramel Cream Puff Pastries (Profiteroles) are heavenly bites of airy pastry, creamy filling, and rich caramel—the perfect treat for any dessert lover. Try them today and impress your guests with this classic French delight!

Would you like a chocolate or fruit-filled variation? 😊