Name: Nun's Puffs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup water; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 4 large eggs; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup sugar (for coating)

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If you're craving a simple yet indulgent treat, Nun's Puffs are the perfect solution. These soft, puffy pastry bites are golden brown on the outside and light and airy on the inside. Coated with a delicate cinnamon-sugar mixture, each bite offers a subtle sweetness that pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. The best part? They're quick and easy to make, so you can enjoy fresh homemade pastries in no time.

Ingredients

1 cup water

½ cup unsalted butter

½ teaspoon salt

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

4 large eggs

½ cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

¼ cup sugar (for coating)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a medium saucepan, combine water, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the butter melts.

Once the mixture is boiling, remove it from the heat and stir in the flour and cinnamon. Mix until smooth and combined.

Return the saucepan to low heat and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1-2 minutes to dry out the dough slightly.

Remove the dough from the heat and let it cool for 5 minutes.

Add the eggs one at a time, stirring well after each addition. The dough will become smooth and glossy.

Spoon or pipe 1-inch mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and puffed up.

While the puffs are baking, combine powdered sugar and vanilla extract in a small bowl.

Once the puffs are done baking, let them cool slightly, then dip each puff into the sugar mixture to coat lightly.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 22 minutes

Total Time: 32 minutes

Servings: 12 servings

Variations

If you’re in the mood for a twist, you can experiment with different flavorings for the sugar coating. Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the sugar mix for an extra layer of warmth. You could also incorporate a drizzle of chocolate over the puffs once they’ve cooled, giving them an extra indulgent touch. Another option is to fill the puffs with whipped cream or custard for a richer treat.

Storage/Reheating

These puffs are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. To refresh them, simply warm them in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) to restore some of that crispy exterior.

FAQs

How do I prevent the puffs from deflating after baking?

To avoid deflation, make sure you let the puffs cool slightly in the oven with the door cracked before taking them out. This helps them set and maintain their shape.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

It’s best to bake these right after making the dough for the best puffing results. However, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the fridge for a few hours before baking.

Can I freeze Nun's Puffs?

Yes, you can freeze the puffs after they have cooled. To reheat, place them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until warm and crispy again.

Can I add different spices to the dough?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger to give the puffs a different flavor profile. Just keep the proportions in mind so they don’t overpower the dish.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While butter gives the puffs a rich flavor, margarine can be used as a substitute in equal amounts if you're looking for a dairy-free option.

Conclusion

Nun’s Puffs are the perfect bite-sized treat for any occasion, offering a wonderful balance of sweetness and lightness. Whether you're enjoying them with a morning coffee or as an afternoon snack, these delightful puffs are sure to bring a smile to your face. With their soft, puffy texture and cinnamon-sugar coating, they make for a simple yet delicious homemade pastry. Plus, they’re so easy to make that you’ll want to bake them again and again.

Recipe:

Nun's Puffs

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 32 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Nun's Puffs are soft, sweet, and puffy pastry bites, golden brown on the outside and light and airy on the inside, coated with a delicate cinnamon-sugar mixture. They are quick and easy to make and pair perfectly with tea or coffee.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium saucepan, combine water, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the butter melts.
Once the mixture is boiling, remove it from the heat and stir in the flour and cinnamon. Mix until smooth and combined.
Return the saucepan to low heat and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1-2 minutes to dry out the dough slightly.
Remove the dough from the heat and let it cool for 5 minutes.
Add the eggs one at a time, stirring well after each addition. The dough will become smooth and glossy.
Spoon or pipe 1-inch mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and puffed up.
While the puffs are baking, combine powdered sugar and vanilla extract in a small bowl.
Once the puffs are done baking, let them cool slightly, then dip each puff into the sugar mixture to coat lightly.