Profiterole

A profiterole, also known as a cream puff or chou à la crème, is a delightful French pastry made from choux pastry. These small puffs can be filled with a variety of sweet fillings such as whipped cream, custard, pastry cream, or even ice cream. To make them even more irresistible, they are often topped with chocolate sauce, caramel, or a dusting of powdered sugar. But did you know they can also be savory? Some versions are filled with pureed meats or cheese and were once used to garnish soups.

Making profiteroles involves piping or dropping choux pastry dough into small rounds, baking them until they are golden and puffed, and then letting them cool. Once cooled, they are filled using a pastry bag or by slicing off the top, adding the filling, and replacing the top.

Common fillings include pastry cream, whipped cream, or ice cream. After being filled, sweet profiteroles might be glazed with chocolate ganache or simply dusted with powdered sugar. They can also be served plain, or with a caramel glaze, icing, or fresh fruit.

One impressive way profiteroles are presented is in a croquembouche—a tower of filled puffs held together with caramel. This is a popular choice for weddings in France and Italy, Christmas celebrations in France, and special occasions in Gibraltar. Profiteroles also play a starring role in the classic St. Honoré cake.

The term "profiterole" has been around since the 17th century, evolving to describe these delicious pastry puffs. Cream puffs have been a part of American cuisine since at least 1851, and the Wisconsin State Fair is famous for its giant cream puffs.

Whether enjoyed sweet or savory, profiteroles are a versatile and delicious treat that has stood the test of time!