We can’t resist the charm of Nun’s Puffs, those light and airy French pastries that date back to classic European kitchens. Originating as “Pets de Nonne,” they’re a whimsical treat with a crispy exterior and soft center, perfect for impressing guests or satisfying sweet cravings.
In our kitchen, we’ve simplified this timeless recipe so you can easily recreate it at home. Join us as we bring a touch of French elegance to your table, one delightful puff at a time.
Ingredients
To create our light and airy Nun’s Puffs, we gather these essential ingredients. We’ve organized them in the order they’re used for seamless preparation.
- 1 cup whole milk: Bring to a boil as the base for the dough.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed: Use cold cubes to ensure even melting.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Sifted to avoid lumps and promote a smooth texture.
- 4 large eggs: At room temperature for better incorporation and rise.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to balance the pastry’s richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Provides a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the Nun’s Puffs charm.
- Vegetable oil: For frying, use enough to reach 2-3 inches in depth for even cooking.
Equipment Needed
To bring our Nun’s Puffs to life with ease and precision we rely on a few key tools that streamline the process from dough preparation to frying. These essentials help us achieve that signature crispy exterior and soft center without any hassle.
Essential Tools
For crafting our delightful Nun’s Puffs we recommend gathering the following Essential Tools to ensure smooth execution and consistent results:
- Medium Saucepan: A sturdy 2-3 quart saucepan for heating milk and butter to create the base dough – opt for one with a thick bottom to prevent scorching.
- Mixing Bowl: A large heatproof bowl where we combine flour and other ingredients; we suggest using glass or stainless steel for better heat resistance.
- Whisk: A reliable wire whisk to beat eggs and incorporate air into the mixture for that light airy texture our Nun’s Puffs are known for.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Ideal for stirring the dough once it comes together – choose a heat-resistant option to handle the warm mixture safely.
- Deep Frying Pot or Dutch Oven: A heavy pot with high sides for frying; this helps contain oil splatters and maintains even temperature for golden perfection.
- Slotted Spoon or Spider Strainer: Perfect for safely removing fried puffs from hot oil ensuring they drain excess oil quickly.
- Candy Thermometer: To monitor oil temperature accurately – aim for 375°F to fry our Nun’s Puffs without them absorbing too much oil.
By having these tools ready we make the recipe process efficient and enjoyable right from the start.
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients and equipment prepared, let’s create these light and airy Nun’s Puffs with simple, step-by-step guidance. We’ll ensure each stage delivers the perfect crispy exterior and soft center that make this French classic irresistible.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before we begin, we’ll organize and measure our ingredients for a smooth process. Start by measuring out 1 cup of whole milk, 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (cut into pieces for even melting), 1 cup of all-purpose flour (sifted to remove lumps), 4 large eggs (at room temperature for better incorporation), 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Next, pour the vegetable oil into a deep frying pot or Dutch oven—aim for at least 2 inches deep to fully submerge the puffs. This preparation ensures everything is ready and helps prevent delays during cooking.
Make the Batter
To craft the batter, we’ll start by heating a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 cup of whole milk and 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, stirring constantly until the butter melts completely and the mixture reaches a gentle boil—this takes about 2-3 minutes. Quickly add 1 cup of sifted all-purpose flour all at once, then switch to a wooden spoon or spatula and vigorously stir until the mixture forms a smooth ball that pulls away from the sides of the pan, about 1 minute. Remove from heat and let it cool for 5 minutes to avoid cooking the eggs prematurely. Beat in 4 large eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next, followed by 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Continue mixing until the batter is glossy and holds its shape, creating the foundation for our fluffy Nun’s Puffs.
Bake the Puffs
Although Nun’s Puffs are traditionally fried, we’ll adapt this step for a simplified home method while achieving that signature texture—note that “bake” here refers to the cooking process in hot oil for even results. Heat the vegetable oil in your deep frying pot to 375°F (use a candy thermometer for accuracy), then drop teaspoon-sized portions of batter into the oil using a spoon or small scoop. Fry the puffs in batches for 4-5 minutes, turning them occasionally with a slotted spoon until they turn golden brown and puff up to about double their size. Remove them promptly to a paper-lined plate to drain excess oil, ensuring each batch maintains the light, airy quality that defines Nun’s Puffs.
Cool and Serve
Once fried, transfer the puffs to a wire rack to cool for 5-10 minutes, allowing the exteriors to crisp further while the centers stay soft and tender. For serving, we recommend dusting them with powdered sugar or drizzling with a simple glaze to enhance their whimsical appeal—perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as an elegant treat to impress guests.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the joys of our Nun’s Puffs recipe is its flexibility for busy schedules. We love preparing these light and airy French pastries in advance to preserve their crispy exterior and soft center without compromising flavor. Below, we outline simple, effective steps to make your Nun’s Puffs make-ahead friendly, ensuring you can enjoy them fresh whenever the craving strikes.
Preparing the Batter Ahead
To streamline your cooking process, we recommend making the batter up to 24 hours in advance. This allows the flavors of vanilla and sugar to meld beautifully while keeping the mixture ready for frying.
- Step 1: After combining the milk, butter, flour, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract into a glossy batter as described in our step-by-step instructions, let it cool completely at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
- Step 2: Transfer the batter to an airtight container and refrigerate it promptly. Cover tightly to prevent any skin from forming on the surface.
- Step 3: When you’re ready to fry, remove the batter from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. This ensures the batter regains its smooth consistency for perfect, golden-brown puffs.
Frying and Storing the Puffs
If you prefer to fry the Nun’s Puffs ahead of time, we suggest doing so no more than 2 days in advance. This maintains their delightful crispiness and prevents sogginess.
- Step 1: Fry the batter as per our instructions until the puffs achieve a deep golden color and that irresistible airy texture.
- Step 2: Place the cooled puffs on a wire rack, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 8 hours or in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours.
- Step 3: For longer storage, freeze the puffs in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month, locking in their fresh-baked essence.
Reheating for Optimal Freshness
Reheating is key to reviving the signature crispy exterior and soft center of your Nun’s Puffs. We advise against microwaving, as it can make them tough.
| Reheating Method | Time | Temperature | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oven | 5-7 minutes | 350°F (175°C) | Place puffs on a baking sheet and heat until warm and crisp; ideal for batches. |
| Air Fryer | 2-4 minutes | 350°F (175°C) | Use for a quick refresh; shake the basket halfway for even crisping. |
By following these make-ahead strategies, we ensure your Nun’s Puffs remain a effortless, elegant treat that impresses every time.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing our take on Nun’s Puffs, turning a classic French delight into something anyone can whip up at home.
These airy treats bring a touch of elegance to your table, perfect for impressing friends or indulging yourself.
We’re confident you’ll enjoy experimenting with this recipe, making it a go-to for special occasions or everyday joy. It’s all about creating memorable moments with simple ingredients and a bit of creativity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Nun’s Puffs?
Nun’s Puffs are light, airy French pastries with a crispy exterior and soft center, originally called “Pets de Nonne.” They’re a fun, elegant treat perfect for impressing guests or satisfying sweet cravings. This simplified recipe makes them easy to bake at home, adding a touch of French charm to your table.
What ingredients are needed for Nun’s Puffs?
You’ll need 1 cup whole milk, 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 1 cup all-purpose flour, 4 large eggs, 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and vegetable oil for frying. These ingredients create a glossy batter that’s fried to golden perfection, ensuring a seamless process when used in order.
What equipment is required to make Nun’s Puffs?
Essential tools include a medium saucepan for heating milk and butter, a mixing bowl and whisk for the batter, a wooden spoon or spatula for stirring, a deep frying pot or Dutch oven, a slotted spoon for removing puffs, and a candy thermometer for oil temperature. These help achieve the ideal crispy texture efficiently.
How do I make Nun’s Puffs step by step?
Start by preparing ingredients. Heat milk and butter in a saucepan, add flour, then mix in eggs, sugar, and vanilla for a glossy batter. Fry spoonfuls in hot oil until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack and dust with powdered sugar or glaze. This adapted method makes it simple for home cooks.
Can I prepare Nun’s Puffs ahead of time?
Yes, make the batter up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it to enhance flavors. Fry fresh or store cooked puffs in an airtight container. For reheating, use an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness. This flexibility makes Nun’s Puffs ideal for busy schedules without losing their charm.
How should I store and reheat Nun’s Puffs?
Store cooled puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for up to a month. To reheat, bake in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes or use an air fryer at 300°F for 3-5 minutes to regain their crispy texture and fresh taste.
Are Nun’s Puffs suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! This simplified recipe uses basic ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for novice bakers. With the right equipment and tips, you can create these delightful pastries at home, turning a classic French treat into an easy weekend project.