Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking the choux pastry.
- In a saucepan, combine water, butter, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, watching for the butter to melt and the mixture to bubble.
- Once boiling, add the flour all at once, stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon, until the mixture pulls away from the sides and forms a dough ball. Continue cooking for another minute to remove excess moisture.
- Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until the dough becomes smooth and glossy.
- Using a spoon or piping bag, dollop or pipe the choux pastry onto the prepared baking sheet, creating small, uniform mounds with enough space between them.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and firm to the touch. Once done, remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.
- While the puffs cool, prepare the basil-infused whipped cream. Whip the chilled heavy cream and sugar together in a bowl until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the chopped basil leaves for that fresh, aromatic flavor.
- Slice the strawberries into thin pieces or small chunks, ready for filling and topping.
- Once the choux puffs are cooled, cut them in half horizontally to create a cavity for the filling.
- Fill each puff generously with the basil-infused whipped cream, then top with sliced strawberries for a vibrant, juicy finish.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of crisp pastry, creamy filling, and fresh berries.
Notes
For best flavor, use fresh basil and ripe strawberries. These cream puffs are best enjoyed on the day of assembly but can be stored in the refrigerator for a few hours if needed.
