Nun’s Puffs

The first time I tasted Nun’s Puffs, I was visiting a small countryside monastery with a dear friend. We were welcomed with warm smiles and an even warmer tray of these heavenly pastries, fresh from the oven and dripping with honey. Light, airy, and sweetly golden, they practically melt in your mouth. Ever since, Nun’s Puffs have held a special place in my heart and my recipe box.

Their delightful name and whimsical texture make them a conversation starter at any table. Whether served at brunch, teatime, or as a special dessert, these puffs are a joy to make and share. They remind us that sometimes the simplest ingredients can create the most divine treats.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Heavenly Texture: Crispy on the outside, soft and custardy inside.
• Easy to Make: No special tools or ingredients needed.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for brunch, baby showers, or tea parties.
• Versatile Serving: Top with honey, whipped cream, or fresh fruit.
• Elegant Yet Simple: Beautiful presentation with very little effort.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepped earlier and reheated just before serving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 stick butter (1/2 cup)
• 1 cup milk
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 to 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for light sweetness)
• Sugar for sprinkling
• Honey for serving
• Whipped cream and/or fruit for garnish (optional)

Substitutions and Tips:

• Dairy-free? Use plant-based butter and milk.
• For extra flavor, add a splash of vanilla or almond extract.
• You can omit the sugar for a more savory puff.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or line a muffin tin—you’ll need about 9 to 10 cups.

Tip: Use a nonstick spray or butter and flour for best release.

Step 2: Make the Dough Base

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine butter and milk. Stir until the butter is completely melted and the mixture begins to boil.

Tip: Keep stirring to avoid scorching the milk.

Step 3: Add the Flour

Reduce heat to low and add all the flour at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a dough ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.

Tip: This forms a choux-style dough, which is the base of many delicate pastries.

Step 4: Cool Slightly

Remove the pan from heat and let the dough cool for about 5 minutes. This prevents the eggs from scrambling when added.

Step 5: Add the Eggs

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition until the dough is smooth and glossy. Stir in sugar if using.

Tip: It may look like it’s separating at first, but keep beating—it will come together.

Step 6: Fill the Muffin Cups

Spoon the dough evenly into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown, puffed, and firm to the touch.

Tip: Avoid opening the oven during baking, as this can cause the puffs to collapse.

Step 8: Finish and Serve

Let the puffs cool slightly. Sprinkle with sugar and drizzle generously with honey. Serve warm, optionally topped with whipped cream and fruit.

Serving Suggestion: Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

Serving and Storage Tips

Nun’s Puffs are best served warm and fresh from the oven. They pair beautifully with a drizzle of honey and a dollop of whipped cream. If making ahead, store cooled puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day.

To reheat, place in a 350°F oven for 5–8 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the crust.

Helpful Notes

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just enough to incorporate the eggs.
• Even Fill: Try to fill muffin cups evenly so they bake uniformly.
• Steam Matters: The eggs and milk create steam that helps the puffs rise beautifully.
• Add Spices: For a twist, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why did my puffs deflate after baking?
   Most likely due to opening the oven too soon or not baking long enough. Make sure they’re golden and set before removing.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, but they’re best fresh. Reheat in the oven for 5–8 minutes for crispness.
3. Can I freeze Nun’s Puffs?
   You can, though texture may change slightly. Reheat from frozen at 350°F until hot.
4. Do I need to use muffin tins?
   Muffin tins help shape them, but you can bake on a parchment-lined tray with more rustic results.
5. Can I make them savory?
   Absolutely! Skip the sugar and honey. Try adding shredded cheese, herbs, or spices.
6. Is it okay to use an electric mixer for the eggs?
   Yes, a hand mixer makes it easier to blend the eggs thoroughly.

Final Thoughts

Nun’s Puffs are a charming, airy treat that never fails to delight. Their crisp shells and tender centers make them perfect for sweet or savory moments, and they come together surprisingly quickly. Whether you dress them up with honey and cream or keep them simple, these little pastries are sure to earn a place in your favorite recipe rotation.

Have you made Nun’s Puffs before? What’s your favorite topping or twist? Let me know!