Choux Pastry: Classic and Easy Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C).
2. In a saucepan, bring water, butter, and salt to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and add flour all at once, stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon until it forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
4. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
5. Beat in eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. The mixture should be glossy and smooth.
6. Using a spoon or piping bag, drop or pipe balls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave space between each ball as they will expand during baking.
7. Bake for 15 minutes at 400°F (205°C), then reduce the heat to 350°F (180°C) and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the choux pastry is golden brown and crispy on the outside.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.

Verdict:

Choux pastry is a classic French pastry that is surprisingly easy to make at home. This recipe yields light and airy pastry balls that can be filled with anything from whipped cream to savory fillings like chicken salad or seafood. The crispy exterior and soft interior make these pastries the perfect vessel for any filling.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve choux pastry warm or cold, filled with sweet or savory fillings. Sweet options include whipped cream, pastry cream, Nutella, or fruit. Savory options include chicken salad, tuna salad, salmon mousse, or cream cheese and herbs. Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness. Enjoy as a snack, appetizer, or dessert.