Nun’s Puffs are light, airy, and delightfully crisp pastries that puff up beautifully in the oven and are traditionally served warm with a drizzle of honey. With their golden tops and custard-like centers, these simple yet elegant treats are made from a cooked choux-style dough and are perfect for brunch, tea time, or dessert. Whether dusted with sugar or paired with fruit and whipped cream, Nun’s Puffs are a timeless indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Nun’s Puffs are made with just a few basic ingredients and require no yeast, yet yield an impressively airy and tender result. Their dramatic rise in the oven makes them visually appealing, and they offer endless serving options—from sweet to savory. They’re quick to prepare, easy to customize, and irresistibly delicious served fresh and warm.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 stick butter (½ cup)
1 cup milk
¾ cup all-purpose flour
4 eggs
½–1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for sweeter puffs)
Sugar for sprinkling
Honey for serving
Whipped cream or fruit (optional)
Directions
Prepare the Oven and Pan:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a standard muffin tin thoroughly, ensuring each cup is well-coated to prevent sticking.
Make the Dough:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
Add the milk and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Once boiling, add the flour all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture pulls away from the sides of the pan and forms a ball.
Remove from heat and let the dough cool for about 5 minutes.
Incorporate the Eggs:
Add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition until the mixture is smooth and glossy. If desired, mix in ½–1 tablespoon of sugar for added sweetness.
Bake the Puffs:
Divide the dough evenly among the muffin cups.
Sprinkle the tops with sugar for a light crunch and added sweetness.
Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown, well risen, and crisp on top.
Serve:
Serve warm directly from the oven. Drizzle generously with honey and garnish with whipped cream or fresh fruit, if desired.
Servings and timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 12 puffs
Variations
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Cinnamon Sugar: Mix cinnamon with the sugar topping for a spiced variation.
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Savory Option: Omit the sugar and serve with cheese, herbs, or smoked salmon.
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Filled Puffs: Pipe whipped cream or pastry cream into the cooled puffs for a cream puff-style dessert.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle with melted chocolate instead of honey for a rich treat.
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Mini Puffs: Bake in mini muffin tins for bite-sized versions. Adjust baking time to 20–22 minutes.
Storage/Reheating
Storage:
Store leftover puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
Freeze fully baked and cooled puffs in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating:
Reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it may soften the exterior.
FAQs
Why didn’t my puffs rise?
Ensure your oven is fully preheated, and do not open the door during baking. Steam is essential for the rise.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
No, the dough should be baked immediately after preparing for best results.
Are Nun’s Puffs similar to cream puffs?
Yes, both use choux pastry, but Nun’s Puffs are typically baked in muffin tins and served as-is, often with honey.
Can I use non-dairy milk?
Yes, almond or oat milk can be used, though the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Can I add flavor to the dough?
Yes, try adding vanilla extract, lemon zest, or nutmeg for subtle flavor enhancements.
Why are my puffs soggy?
Soggy puffs may be underbaked. Bake until deeply golden and crisp on top. Let cool on a wire rack.
What’s the best way to grease the muffin pan?
Use butter or non-stick spray, making sure every surface is well coated to prevent sticking.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, though texture may be slightly different.
What is the texture of Nun’s Puffs?
They are crisp on the outside and soft, almost custardy on the inside.
Are these best served warm or cold?
Warm is ideal, especially when served with honey or other toppings.
Conclusion
Nun’s Puffs are a delightful, old-fashioned pastry that proves simple ingredients can yield spectacular results. With their golden crusts, airy interiors, and sweet finishing touches, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Whether you serve them with a drizzle of honey or dress them up with cream and fruit, these puffs are sure to charm and satisfy.
Print
Nun’s Puffs
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 puffs
- Category: Pastry, Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Nun’s Puffs are light, airy, and irresistibly crisp on the outside with a soft, custardy center. Made from a simple pâte à choux dough, they’re baked in muffin tins, sprinkled with sugar, and best enjoyed warm with honey or whipped cream. A charming old-fashioned treat with a modern twist! Keywords: nun’s puffs, easy pastry recipe, honey puffs, choux muffin puffs
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously grease a 12-cup muffin tin. -
Make the Dough:
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add milk and bring to a low boil.
Add all the flour at once and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the dough pulls away from the sides and forms a ball.
Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes. -
Incorporate Eggs:
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the dough is smooth and glossy. -
Bake:
Divide dough evenly among the muffin cups. Sprinkle tops with sugar for extra crunch.
Bake for 30 minutes or until puffed and golden brown. Do not open the oven door during baking. -
Serve:
Enjoy warm, drizzled with honey. Top with whipped cream or fresh fruit if desired.
Notes
For crispier puffs, let them sit in the warm oven (turned off) for 5 extra minutes after baking.
Best served fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container and reheated in the oven.
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