Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Cream Puff “Crack Buns” (Choux au Craquelin)

Choux au Craquelin are delightful French pastries with a unique combination of textures and flavors. The base is a light and airy choux pastry that dramatically puffs up when baked, creating a hollow center perfect for filling. They have a sweet, crackly topping called craquelin that adds a satisfying crunch. Elegant yet simple to make, they’re perfect for special occasions or an anytime treat.

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: Approximately 12-15 Choux au Craquelin

Ingredients

Craquelin:

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • Pinch of salt

Choux Pastry:

  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • Pinch of salt
  • Pinch of sugar
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 large eggs

Filling (Optional):

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Craquelin: Combine softened butter, sugar, flour, and salt. Roll dough between parchment paper until thin. Freeze for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Choux Pastry: Heat milk, water, butter, salt, and sugar until simmering. Add flour all at once and stir until the mixture forms a ball.
  3. Cool Dough: Slightly cool the dough, then beat in eggs one at a time until smooth and glossy.
  4. Pipe and Top: Pipe mounds of choux pastry onto baking sheets. Cut out craquelin circles and place one on top of each mound.
  5. Bake: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 10 minutes, then reduce to 375°F (190°C) and bake for another 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Fill: Cool completely. Cut Choux au Craquelin in half. Whip heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Fill pastry shells.

Notes

  • For a dairy-free variation, try substituting plant-based milk in the choux pastry and vegan butter for both the pastry and craquelin.
  • Experiment with various filling flavors like chocolate pastry cream, whipped cream infused with different extracts, or even savory fillings for appetizers.
  • Customize the craquelin with spices, cocoa powder, or freeze-dried fruits for different flavors and colors.
  • Author: Juana M. Benedict
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French