Nun’s Puffs

Nun’s Puffs: A Sweet and Simple Treat

Looking for a delightful, airy pastry that’s easy to make and irresistibly delicious? Nun’s Puffs are the answer! These golden, puffed-up goodies are light, tender, and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack. With a crispy exterior and a soft, custardy interior, they’re a versatile treat that pairs beautifully with a drizzle of honey, a dusting of sugar, or even a dollop of whipped cream and fresh fruit.

In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create these heavenly puffs, share why they’re so special, and provide tips and FAQs to ensure your baking success. Let’s get started!

Why Nun’s Puffs Are a Must-Try

Nun’s Puffs, sometimes called “French breakfast puffs” or likened to choux pastry, are a hidden gem in the world of baked goods. Here’s why they deserve a spot in your recipe rotation:

• Quick Prep: The dough comes together in minutes with pantry staples.
• Impressive Results: They puff up dramatically in the oven, making them look fancy with minimal effort.
• Customizable: Serve them sweet with honey and sugar or jazz them up with your favorite toppings.
• Rich History: Legend has it these treats were created by nuns, adding a touch of charm to every bite.

Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, Nun’s Puffs are a fun and rewarding recipe to master. Ready to bake? Here’s what you’ll need.

Ingredients

• 1 stick butter (½ cup) – Adds richness and helps create that signature puff.
• 1 cup milk – Whole milk works best for a tender texture.
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour – The foundation of the dough; measure carefully for the right consistency.
• 4 large eggs – Essential for structure and that airy lift.
• ½–1 tablespoon sugar (optional) – A hint of sweetness in the dough, though you can skip it if you prefer.
• Sugar for sprinkling – Adds a delightful crunch on top.
• Honey for serving – A classic drizzle that makes these puffs irresistible.
• Optional: Whipped cream and fresh fruit – Think strawberries, raspberries, or a dollop of cream for extra indulgence.

Instructions

1. Prep the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously grease a standard 12-cup muffin pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking—these puffs rise high!
2. Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely. Add the milk and stir, bringing the mixture to a low boil (small bubbles should form around the edges).
3. Form the Dough: Remove the pan from heat and add the flour all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture comes together into a smooth ball that pulls away from the sides of the pan. This takes about 1–2 minutes.
4. Cool Slightly: Let the dough cool for 5 minutes off the heat. This step prevents the eggs from cooking when you add them.
5. Add the Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition until the dough is smooth and glossy. It might look lumpy at first—keep stirring! If using sugar in the dough, add it with the last egg.
6. Fill the Pan: Divide the dough evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about halfway. Sprinkle the tops lightly with sugar for a sweet, crispy finish.
7. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 30 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and beautifully risen. Resist the urge to open the oven door early—they need steady heat to puff up.
8. Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly in the pan for a few minutes. Serve warm with a generous drizzle of honey, or top with whipped cream and fruit if desired. Enjoy the magic!

Why This Recipe Works

Nun’s Puffs are a simplified take on choux pastry, the same dough used for cream puffs and éclairs. The high moisture content from the milk and eggs creates steam during baking, causing the dough to rise dramatically into light, hollow puffs. The butter adds flavor and tenderness, while the sprinkle of sugar on top caramelizes slightly for a delightful crunch.

These treats are best enjoyed fresh from the oven when they’re at their puffiest and most flavorful. They’re simple enough for a weekday treat but elegant enough to impress guests at a brunch spread.

Tips for Perfect Nun’s Puffs

1. Grease Well: Don’t skimp on greasing the muffin pan—these puffs can stick if the pan isn’t properly prepared.
2. Stir with Muscle: When adding the flour, stir quickly and firmly to avoid lumps and form a cohesive dough ball.
3. Room-Temperature Eggs: Using eggs at room temperature helps them incorporate more smoothly into the dough.
4. Don’t Peek: Keep the oven door closed during baking to maintain the heat needed for maximum puffiness.
5. Serve Fresh: These puffs are best enjoyed warm, as they deflate slightly as they cool.
6. Experiment with Flavors: Add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract to the dough for a subtle twist.
7. Reheat Leftovers: Pop them in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes to revive their texture if you have extras.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why didn’t my puffs rise?
If they didn’t puff up, the dough might not have been cooked enough on the stovetop (it should form a firm ball), or the oven wasn’t hot enough. Make sure to preheat fully and avoid opening the door during baking.

2. Can I make Nun’s Puffs ahead of time?
They’re best fresh, but you can make the dough ahead and refrigerate it for up to a day. Bake just before serving for optimal puffiness.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day or in the fridge for 2–3 days. Reheat in the oven to crisp them up.

4. Can I freeze Nun’s Puffs?
Yes, freeze baked puffs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Reheat at 350°F for 10 minutes.

5. Are these the same as cream puffs?
They’re similar but simpler. Nun’s Puffs don’t require a filling like cream puffs, though you could stuff them with whipped cream or pastry cream if you’d like!

6. Can I make them savory?
Absolutely! Skip the sugar in the dough and on top, then serve with a sprinkle of sea salt or a savory spread like herbed cream cheese.

7. What if I don’t have a muffin pan?
You can drop spoonfuls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet for a rustic look—just space them 2 inches apart.

Final Thoughts

Nun’s Puffs are a delightful blend of simplicity and elegance, transforming basic ingredients into a treat that feels special. Whether you’re drizzling them with honey for a sweet indulgence or dressing them up with whipped cream and berries for a brunch centerpiece, they’re sure to bring smiles to the table.

So, preheat that oven, grab your saucepan, and whip up a batch of these airy delights. Have a favorite topping or variation? We’d love to hear how you enjoy your Nun’s Puffs—happy baking!