Profiteroles

Profiteroles are one of the world’s easiest and most impressive foods. Make your choux pastry ahead of time, pipe or scoop the pastry onto a lined sheet pan, then freeze.

You can transfer the frozen pucks of choux pastry dough (a.k.a. cream puff dough) into a zipper top bag and stash to bake later, making them not just impressive, but ridiculously convenient, too.

Profiteroles vs. cream puffs

Are you asking, “Wait. Aren’t these just cream puffs?” The answer is yes… but a qualified yes.

Profiteroles are homemade cream puffs that have been split, filled, with ice cream, and topped with hot fudge or chocolate or caramel sauce. So basically we’re talking about an ice cream filled hot fudge cream puff.

I think we can all agree that’s a pretty wonderful thing, right?

Making cream puffs

Cream Puffs are another of those marvelous children of pâte à choux or choux paste. I’ve already told you a little of my love for choux paste. This is far and away my favourite, though. So let’s walk through HOW to make a cream puff.

To begin with, I’m going to strongly suggest you use a stand mixer. You can absolutely make the dough (choux pastry) for your cream puffs by hand, but be aware that it’ll be an upper body workout. It’s much more easily done with a stand mixer fitted with a batter blade.

While you do need to form the cream puffs immediately after the dough is made, you can pop the pan into the freezer right after shaping or piping it if you don’t want to bake them right away.

What do I use to fill cream puffs?

In short, anything you want. To expound a bit, they’re delicious when split and filled with savoury or sweet goodies.

From chicken salad, egg salad, or tuna salad to ice cream and hot fudge, but not all at the same time, Cream Puffs are so easy to make and so impressive.

What are profiteroles?

Profiteroles are the happy result of splitting a largely hollow cream puff in half and filling it with ice cream. HOLLER!

You can use strawberry ice cream, Mint Dark Chocolate Chunk Ice Cream {30 Minute Recipe},The Best Chocolate Dairy Free Ice Cream Recipe, or basically any ice cream that dings your chimes! They’re amazing with ice cream from the store, too!

In this case, we then drizzle warm hot fudge sauce over the whole thing. Then we drizzle the hot fudge sauce directly into our mouths. I mean, really. This is Grandma Val’s hot fudge sauce that I’m using. I’m no fool.

Can you freeze cream puffs?

Here comes another qualified yes. You can definitely freeze cream puffs, but the end result will be better if you freeze them BEFORE you bake them.

I know it probably sounds appealing to have a bag full of frozen cream puffs in the freezer just waiting to thaw and fill with ice cream or what-have-you, but I stick with me here. Homemade cream puffs taste even better when they’re fresh. And this is so very easy!

Just whip up that homemade cream puff recipe, pipe it out into the shapes you want and freeze them. When you want profiteroles or cream puffs, just bake them from frozen. That’s right!!

If you have your cream puff frozen, you can have ice cream-filled puffs any old time you want. You don’t have to thaw the dough or anything prior to baking.

You just pop a frozen cream puff or several on a lined pan and bake. The only concession you have to make for baking them from frozen is that you add five minutes to the cooking time. That’s do-able, right?

That’s TOTALLY do-able. Make yourself or someone else some profiteroles. This is how you make people happy.

How to store cream puffs

Now that I’ve shared my very strong opinion on baking cream puffs fresh when you want to eat them, I’ll go ahead and tell you that yes. You can store them once they’re already baked. I’d advise wrapping them individually and freezing them in a zipper top bag if you can’t eat them the same day they’re made.

You can also bake them several hours ahead of when you plan to serve them. Let them cool completely… as in 100%… then transfer them loosely into a paper bag and roll the top down several times to close the bag.

Use these to make homemade cream puffs more easily!

1. Stand Mixer
2. Half Sheet Pan
3. Parchment Paper
4. 2 Quart Saucepan
5. Sturdy Spatula or Wooden Spoon

Need cream puff ice cream options?

You can try this amazing maple bacon frozen custard, 3-Ingredient Strawberry Ice Cream, Eggnog Ice Cream, Pumpkin Cheesecake Ice Cream, Blueberry Frozen Yogurt, Strawberry Cheesecake Frozen Yogurt, Cinnamon Frozen Custard,Mint Dark Chocolate Chunk Ice Cream, Vanilla Latte Stracciatella Gelato, Vanilla Homemade Ice Cream, Fresh Peach Ice Cream, or Berries and Cream Ice Cream.

Profiteroles

To Make the Cream Puffs:

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet (or two) with silpats or parchment paper.

Bring the water, butter and salt to a rapid boil in a heavy-bottomed, 2 quart capacity saucepan over high heat. Remove the pan from the burner and add all the flour at once.

Stir strongly until the flour is completely wet. Return the pan to medium high heat and continue stirring strongly until a light film forms over the bottom of the pan and the dough is smooth and soft and forms a ball when stirred.

Remove the pan from the heat. Transfer the dough to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle (or to a large, heat-proof mixing bowl if a stand mixer is unavailable.) Let the dough rest for 10 minutes.

After 10 minutes, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. After the final egg is added, beat on high for at least 2 minutes, but not more than 4. (If beating by hand, you can count this as a large part of your daily workout. Beat it into submission!)

You must pipe or scoop out your cream puff dough immediately, but there are two options for after you portion them out. Either way, begin by using a pastry bag with a large plain tip or spoons to portion the dough into 16 equally sized rounds on the prepared pan(s).

I use a pastry bag to pipe circles, piping in smaller toward the top. Traditionally, you tap down the little peaks that form, but my kids like to bite those off, so I leave them.

Alternatively, you could use two large tablespoons portion it out, using one spoon to scrape the dough from the other over the pan.

At this point you can put the pan directly into the freezer, transferring the cream puffs to a resealable zipper top bag or freezer safe container with a tight fitting lid for up to 3 months.

~or~

To Bake the Cream Puffs:

(If preparing from frozen, simply add 5 minutes to the baking time at the end.) Place pan in the oven, bake for 15 minutes.

Do not open that door! After 15 minutes, lower the heat to 375°F and cook for an additional 15 minutes.

When the time is up, turn off the oven and stick the handle of a wooden spoon in between the body of the stove and the door to hold it open just a little and let the cream puffs cool in the oven like that for 30 minutes.

After 30 minutes, remove the pan from the oven. You can serve them immediately or cool to room temperature.

To Make Profiteroles:

Break open a cream puff at the midline (much like a muffin). Place the bottom on a plate, put a good sized scoop of ice cream on the base, add the top part of the cream puff and drizzle with warmed hot fudge sauce.

Print

Profiteroles

Did you know you can freeze cream puff dough (choux paste) and bake cream puffs from the frozen dough any time you want? It's true.

Bake them up and fill those crispy, brown, mostly-hollow poufs with your favourite ice cream then drizzle with warmed hot fudge sauce as the ultimate reward for having a well-stocked freezer. Happiness is a Profiterole: a warm cream puff with cold ice cream!

Course Dessert

Cuisine French

Keyword cream puffs, homemade cream puffs, homemade profiteroles, ice cream filled cream puffs, profiteroles

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 50 minutes

Resting Time 30 minutes

Servings 16

Calories 52kcal

Author Rebecca Lindamood

Equipment

• 1 stand mixer
• 1 sheet of parchment paper
• 1 sturdy spoon
• 1 2 quart saucepan
• 1 half sheet pan

Ingredients

For the Cream Puffs:

• 1 stick 4 ounces by weight butter
• 1 cup 8 ounces by weight water
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 1/4 cups 5 1/4 ounces by weight all purpose flour
• 4 large eggs preferably at room temperature

For the Profiteroles:

• Ice cream
• Hot Fudge Sauce

Instructions

To Make the Cream Puff Frozen Dough:

• Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet (or two) with silpats or parchment paper.
• Bring the water, butter and salt to a rapid boil in a heavy-bottomed, 2 quart capacity saucepan over high heat. Remove the pan from the burner and add all the flour at once. Stir strongly until the flour is completely wet.
• Return the pan to medium high heat and continue stirring strongly until a light film forms over the bottom of the pan and the dough is smooth and soft and forms a ball when stirred. Remove the pan from the heat.
• Transfer the dough to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle (or to a large, heat-proof mixing bowl if a stand mixer is unavailable.) Let the dough rest for 10 minutes.
• After 10 minutes, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. After the final egg is added, beat on high for at least 2 minutes, but not more than 4. (If beating by hand, you can count this as a large part of your daily workout. Beat it into submission!)
• You must pipe or scoop out your cream puff dough immediately, but there are two options for after you portion them out.
• Either way, begin by using a pastry bag with a large plain tip or spoons to portion the dough into 16 equally sized rounds on the prepared pan(s). I use a pastry bag to pipe circles, piping in smaller toward the top.
• Traditionally, you tap down the little peaks that form, but my kids like to bite those off, so I leave them. Alternatively, you could use two large tablespoons portion it out, using one spoon to scrape the dough from the other over the pan.
• At this point you can put the pan directly into the freezer, transferring the cream puffs to a resealable zipper top bag or freezer safe container with a tight fitting lid for up to 3 months.
• ~or~

To Bake the Cream Puffs:

• (If preparing from frozen, simply add 5 minutes to the baking time at the end.) Place pan in the oven, bake for 15 minutes. Do not open that door! After 15 minutes, lower the heat to 375°F and cook for an additional 15 minutes.
• When the time is up, turn off the oven and stick the handle of a wooden spoon in between the body of the stove and the door to hold it open just a little and let the cream puffs cool in the oven like that for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the pan from the oven.
• You can serve them immediately or cool to room temperature.

To Make Profiteroles:

• Break open a cream puff at the midline (much like a muffin). Place the bottom on a plate, put a good sized scoop of ice cream on the base, add the top part of the cream puff and drizzle with warmed hot fudge sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 52kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Trans Fat: 0.004g | Cholesterol: 41mg | Sodium: 53mg | Potassium: 26mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 0.1g | Vitamin A: 60IU | Calcium: 8mg | Iron: 1mg

This post was originally published April 2012, updated in November 2018 with a video, new photos, and improved cook’s notes, and again in January of 2023.

Frequently Asked Questions

What spices are used in Thai cooking?

Thai cuisine is famous for its complex flavor profiles. These flavors are created from unique, flavorful spices which create delicious dishes.

Common ingredients in Thai cuisine include galangal and kaffir lime leaves, chilies, garlic, chillies, chillies, ginger, coriander and cumin.

Each spice contributes to Thai cuisine's distinctive flavour profile. Lemongrass is often used in soups, curries, and stews; galangal adds a slight peppery note to dishes; kaffir lime leaves impart a citrusy aroma; chillies provide a spicy kick; garlic adds a sharp and pungent flavour to dishes; shrimp paste adds an umami depth to food; coriander has a mild, yet fragrant aroma; cumin brings a smoky note to dishes; and turmeric gives food a vibrant yellow hue.

Combining these spices together creates complex flavour profiles, which are unique to Thai food. By using a combination of spices, chefs can create dishes that are both flavorful and aromatic. These spices will help you bring Thailand's flavours to your kitchen.

What are the 11 Indian spices used in Indian cooking

Coriander seeds and cumin seeds are the eleven main spices in Indian cuisine.

These ingredients are used in almost every dish. These spices impart a distinct flavor to dishes such as curries (lentils), curries and chutneys. They also add a unique taste to rice, bread, and sweets.

Spices are also important for health reasons. Curcuma helps fight cancer cells. Bad breath can be prevented with cloves. Black pepper lowers cholesterol. Cinnamon lowers blood pressure. And ginger aids digestion.

The spice rack is an excellent kitchen tool as it allows you to experiment and create new combinations of flavors. You have the option to make your own mixes of spices, or you can buy ready-made ones that include all the essential spices.

Some people are against adding spices to their food. They believe spices mask natural flavors and do not improve them. However, it is possible to enhance the taste of your meals by adding a little salt or pepper.

Most chefs agree that spices are an essential part of cooking art. Without spices, many dishes are bland and tasteless. You might be inspired to try something new next time you feel adventurous.

What mint is used in Thai food?

Lime-leaf mint (Mentha cervina) is the most commonly used type of mint in Thai cuisine.

It has a mild, lemony flavour that adds freshness and zing to dishes. Other spices such as lemongrass, galangal, garlic and coriander are also frequently added to enhance the flavour of Thai dishes.

Mint is versatile and can be used both in sweet and savoury recipes. For authentic Thai flavours, you must use the right spices and herbs.

next time you make a Thai dish, don't forget to include some lime-leaf mint for extra flavour!

Happy cooking!

Is Thai cuisine made with garlic?

Thai cuisine makes use of garlic. Garlic is used in Thai cuisine as an ingredient in salads, soups and stir-fries.

Thai garlic is fried in a mixture of shallots and ginger. In addition, it is commonly eaten with sticky rice.

The most common way to eat garlic is to chop it finely and mix it with chilli paste, salt, fish sauce, lime juice, and oil. This mixture is called Nam Phrik (namphrik). Nam phrik is often accompanied by grilled chicken or beef.

What are the ten hottest spices?

Spices are used for flavouring foods and drinks. Some spices are more widespread than others. There are many varieties of spices. So let's look at the ten most popular ones and find out why they are so well-loved.

Cooking is incomplete without spice. It adds flavor and aroma, but doesn't increase calories. Many spices are rich in essential vitamins and minerals that help keep our bodies strong.

Here are the ten best-selling spices.

1. Cinnamon: This spice is known for improving digestion and lowering cholesterol. It helps prevent the flu and colds.
2. Garlic – This spice aids in fighting infections and boosts immunity. It also aids digestion and lowers blood pressure.
3. Oregano is a spice that boosts energy and increases athletic performance. It fights infection and improves memory.
4. Black pepper - This spice is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. It is also known to reduce stress levels and prevent heart disease.
5. Basil -Basil also contains vitamin K and calcium. It helps to fight cancer cells and improves metabolism.
6. Salt & Vinegar - These two ingredients make a tasty combination. Both salt and vinegar are very effective against bacteria and viruses.
7. Clove Oil - Clove oils are a natural treatment for sore and painful teeth. It also eases muscle spasms and cramps.
8. Ginger - Ginger has been found to relieve morning sickness and nausea during pregnancy. It helps remove congestion from your sinuses.
9. Curry Powder - Curries have been around since ancient times. They were initially made with coconut milk, but we now use different oils or ghee bases.
10. Turmeric – One of the oldest medical herbs is turmeric.

These ten spices are a great way to spice up your food. You may be surprised at what you find!

Statistics

• It has been estimated that around 1,000 tons of pepper and 1,000 tons of other common spices were imported into Western Europe each year during the Late Middle Ages. (en.wikipedia.org)
• India contributes to 75% of global spice production. (en.wikipedia.org)
• Their 14 to 20 percent essential oil content means that cloves have the highest concentration of aroma compounds of any spice. (masterclass.com)

External Links

ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

• Validation and Development of Novel Lifestyle and Dietary Inflammation Scores – PMC


• PubMed: Molecular mechanisms of curcumins suppressing tumorigenesis, angiogenesis and metastasis. Focus on NF-kB pathway – PubMed

doi.org

• Vanilla


• Biomarkers of Intake Based On Human Intervention Studies: Herbs and Spices

penzeys.com

• HomePage

en.wikipedia.org

• Cumin - Wikipedia


• Charlemagne - Wikipedia

How To

How to choose the right spices?

Cooking requires you to learn how to choose the right herbs for your recipes. There are many choices. So where do you start?

When choosing spices, there are three things you should consider: the flavour profile, shelf-life, and cost. You can choose to use different flavour profiles depending on whether your cooking involves meat, poultry or fish, vegetables and pasta. You'll need to narrow your choices once you've chosen a category.

There are many factors that affect shelf life. Some spices are good for a lifetime, while others can be lost quickly. Cayenne pepper can last for many years, while oregano only loses its potency in two months. Then there's the price. Spices can cost anywhere from $1 per tablespoon up to $100 per ounce. This means you have to strike the right balance between quality and cost.

It is also important to decide if you prefer organic ingredients or not. Organic products use fewer pesticides, chemicals, and other harmful substances than traditional alternatives. This makes them safer for you and the environment. These products can also be more costly so make sure to weigh the benefits against the costs.

Online shopping is the best option to find the right spices. Online retailers provide comprehensive information on every product, including pricing, reviews and ratings.

Once you have narrowed down your choices, you can place an online order with the retailer. Once you have received your items safely store them in an airtight container, away from heat & light.