Nun’s Puffs are light, golden pastries with a crisp exterior and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth interior. Their name is said to originate from their heavenly texture, reminiscent of clouds. These pastries are simple to make and require only a few basic ingredients, making them a favorite for both novice and experienced bakers. They can be enjoyed plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of honey, or even a dollop of jam.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk (whole milk is preferred for richness)
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for added flavor)
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Oven and Muffin Tin:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously grease a 12-cup muffin tin with butter, ensuring the cups and rims are well-coated to prevent sticking. - Make the Dough:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the milk and salt, stirring occasionally, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and add the flour all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan. - Cool and Add Eggs:
Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial to prevent the eggs from cooking when added. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. The dough will become smooth and glossy. - Fill the Muffin Tin:
Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, divide the dough evenly among the prepared muffin cups. Fill each cup about halfway to allow room for the puffs to expand. - Bake:
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and have doubled in size. Avoid opening the oven door during baking, as this can cause the puffs to deflate. - Cool and Serve:
Remove the muffin tin from the oven and poke each puff with a fork to release steam, preventing sogginess. Let the puffs cool slightly before removing them from the tin. Dust with powdered sugar or serve with your favorite toppings.
Tips for Success:
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother dough.
- Use a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to mix the dough, as metal utensils can affect the consistency.
- For added flavor, consider mixing cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough.
- Experiment with fillings like whipped cream, fruit compote, or chocolate ganache for a creative twist.
Nun’s Puffs are a versatile and crowd-pleasing treat that can be customized to suit any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply indulging in a quiet morning, these pastries are sure to impress. Enjoy the process of making them and savor every bite!