Nun’s Puffs – Light as Air, Sweet as Heaven Recipe
Nun’s Puffs are delicate, airy pastries with a crisp golden exterior and a light, custardy center. Made from simple pantry staples, they deliver a cloud-like texture and elegant appearance that make them perfect for brunch, teatime, or dessert. This versatile recipe can be enjoyed plain, with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of honey, or customized with savory and sweet variations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 12 puffs 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Basic Ingredients
- 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tbsp sugar (optional)
- Pinch of salt
For Serving
- Honey or powdered sugar (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously grease a muffin tin to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of puffs after baking.
- Heat Butter and Milk: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter together with the whole milk until the mixture begins to boil, ensuring the butter is fully melted and the liquid is hot but not boiled over.
- Make the Dough: Remove the pan from heat and quickly stir in the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt until a thick dough forms that pulls away from the sides of the pan, indicating proper consistency and that the flour is fully incorporated.
- Cool and Add Eggs: Let the dough cool for 5 minutes to avoid cooking the eggs prematurely, then beat in the eggs one at a time until the mixture is smooth and glossy with no lumps, providing the characteristic light texture.
- Add Sugar: Stir in the optional sugar at this point for a slight sweetness, mixing thoroughly to incorporate.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon the dough into the greased muffin tin cups, filling each about halfway to allow space for the puffs to rise evenly without spilling over.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the puffs have dramatically risen and turned a beautiful golden brown on top, indicating they are cooked through and have achieved their airy texture.
- Serve: Serve the Nun’s Puffs warm, topped with honey, powdered sugar, jam, or other preferred toppings to enhance flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For a savory twist, add grated cheese and chopped herbs like thyme before baking.
- Try a sweet variation by sprinkling cinnamon sugar on top before baking or drizzling with citrus glaze after baking.
- Nun’s Puffs can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two days.
- For longer storage, freeze fully cooled puffs on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag; good for up to one month.
- Reheat leftovers in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 8–10 minutes to restore crispness and softness.
- Use gluten-free all-purpose flour with xanthan gum to make a gluten-free version.
- Do not open the oven door during baking to ensure proper rise.
Keywords: Nun’s Puffs, Light pastries, Puff pastries, Easy brunch recipes, Custard puffs, Simple baking recipe, Airy baked goods
