Introduction
Indulging in a warm, freshly baked treat is one of life’s simple pleasures. This recipe combines basic ingredients to create delightful puffs that are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack. With a crisp exterior and soft, airy inside, these puffs can be drizzled with honey for an added touch of sweetness.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
1 cup whole milk
¾ cup all-purpose flour
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Additional sugar for sprinkling
Honey for serving
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 12 puffs
Following these steps will leave you with delicious puffs, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your baking!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously grease a 12-cup muffin tin, ensuring all sides and rims are well-coated.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the milk and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 3: Add the Flour
Add the flour all at once, stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a ball that pulls away from the sides of the pan. Remove from heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until the batter is smooth and glossy.
Step 5: Fill the Muffin Cups
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. Sprinkle the tops with granulated sugar.
Step 6: Bake the Puffs
Bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and have puffed up.
Step 7: Serve Immediately
Remove from the oven and serve immediately. Drizzle with honey before serving, if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Baking Time
Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens may vary. The puffs should be golden brown when done.
Note 2: Muffin Tin Preparation
Ensure the muffin tin is well-greased to prevent sticking, as this recipe relies on the puffs rising properly.
Note 3: Serving Suggestions
These puffs are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, with a drizzle of honey enhancing their flavor.
Cook techniques
Melt Butter
Melt the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. This allows for even melting, ensuring a smooth base for the batter.
Boil Milk
Add whole milk to the melted butter and bring the mixture to a boil. Boiling helps to combine the flavors and prepares the mixture for the addition of flour.
Add Flour
Add the all-purpose flour all at once to the boiling butter and milk mixture. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon to mix until a cohesive ball forms and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
Cool Mixture
Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the mixture to cool for about 5 minutes. This cooling step helps prevent the eggs from cooking when added.
Incorporate Eggs
Add the large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth and glossy batter.
Fill Muffin Cups
Divide the batter evenly among the greased muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. This allows space for the puffs to rise while baking.
Sprinkle Sugar
Sprinkle granulated sugar on top of the filled muffin cups before baking. This adds sweetness and helps create a nice crust on the puffs.
Bake Until Golden
Bake the batter in a preheated oven until the puffs are golden brown and have puffed up, typically around 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving the desired texture.
FAQ
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but it may alter the flavor slightly. Consider reducing the amount of additional salt in the recipe if you choose to use salted butter.
What happens if I don’t wait for the mixture to cool before adding the eggs?
If the mixture is too hot, it can cook the eggs when added, resulting in a lumpy batter instead of a smooth one.
Can I use a different type of flour?
All-purpose flour is recommended for this recipe, but other types of flour may yield different results in texture and flavor. Avoid using flour that does not have gluten, as it is essential for puffing.
What can I serve with these puffs aside from honey?
These puffs can also be served with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or flavored syrups for added sweetness and variety.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day. They are best served fresh but can be reheated in a preheated oven to restore some of their texture.
Conclusion
This delightful recipe yields fluffy and golden puffs that are perfect for a sweet treat at any time of the day. The combination of butter, milk, and eggs creates a rich texture, while the added sugar and honey bring a touch of sweetness. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven for the best experience!
Savory Cheese Puffs
Add shredded cheese to the batter to create savory cheese puffs, perfect as a snack or appetizer.
Herbed Garlic Puffs
Incorporate minced garlic and your favorite herbs into the batter for a flavorful twist.
Citrus Zest Puffs
Add lemon or orange zest for a refreshing citrus flavor that complements the sweetness.
Chocolate Chip Puffs
Mix in chocolate chips for a decadent dessert option that chocolate lovers will adore.
Fruit-Infused Puffs
Fold in chopped fruits like blueberries, strawberries, or peaches for a fruity variation.
Nutty Puffs
Add chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts to introduce a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
