Description
Indulge in authentic Italian Cream Puffs, or Zeppole di San Giuseppe, a traditional dessert crafted with a crisp pastry shell and filled with a rich, velvety custard. Perfect for special occasions, these sweet treats feature a hint of rum and a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Ingredients
-
For the Pastry:
- 2¾ cups unbleached all-purpose flour
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 2 cups water
- 9½ tablespoons butter
- 6 large eggs
For the Custard:
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 cups whole milk
- 4 egg yolks
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon rum
Instructions
- . Prepare the Pastry Dough:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a saucepan, combine water and butter over medium heat. Bring to a boil.
- Remove from heat, mix in flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir until smooth dough forms.
- Return to low heat and stir for 1-2 minutes. Transfer to a bowl or stand mixer and cool.
- Beat in eggs one at a time until dough is smooth and glossy.
2. Shape and Bake the Pastry:
- Pipe dough onto prepared sheets in mounds or rings.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Slit sides to release steam. Cool on a rack.
3. Prepare the Custard Filling:
- In a saucepan, whisk sugar, flour, and salt. Gradually add milk, whisking to avoid lumps.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened. Temper egg yolks with hot mixture, then return to the saucepan.
- Cook 2-3 minutes, stir in butter, vanilla, and rum. Cool with plastic wrap on the surface.
4. Assemble the Cream Puffs:
- Fill a piping bag with custard. Slice or puncture pastries, then fill generously.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- Avoid opening the oven during baking to prevent deflation.
- For variations, try chocolate custard, lemon zest, or whipped cream filling.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
