Vietnamese Cream Puffs: A Delightful Culinary Journey

Prepare to indulge in the irresistible charm of Vietnamese cream puffs, locally known as ‘bánh su kem’. Join us on this delightful adventure as we uncover their delectable secrets and explore their special place in Vietnamese cuisine. Let your culinary journey begin!

The Origins of Vietnamese Cream Puffs

French Influence

The cream puff, or choux à la crème, originates from France, where it was first created by the head chef of the court of Caterina de’ Medici in the 14th century. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that Antoine Carême perfected the recipe for choux pastry, a method still widely used today.

Vietnamese Adaptations

Vietnamese cream puffs have been creatively adapted to cater to local preferences. The most notable changes include a softer, thinner, and chewier crust, paired with a buttery, flavorful filling. Additionally, the recipe often uses fewer ingredients to achieve a lighter texture.

Cultural Significance

In Vietnam, these delightful cakes are cherished and often featured at special occasions such as birthdays, weddings, and festivals. A vegetarian version is also available, ensuring everyone can enjoy this treat.

Varieties of Vietnamese Cream Puffs

Traditional Custard Filling

Vietnamese cream puffs typically include classic ingredients such as eggs, flour, milk, vanilla, and butter. The most popular filling is custard—a fragrant mixture made from cornstarch, milk, whipping cream, and eggs, delivering a rich and creamy texture.

Unique Vietnamese Fillings

In addition to the traditional custard, Vietnamese cream puffs are available in unique flavors like chocolate, cocoa, matcha, and even durian. These flavors offer a distinct twist, making them a delightful departure from the conventional recipe. Furthermore, Vietnamese cream puffs are budget-friendly, with prices ranging from 40,000 to 60,000 VND per portion, depending on the flavor.

With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow recipes, you can enjoy homemade Vietnamese cream puffs anytime!

Ingredients:

Crust (Pâte à Choux):

• 120ml water
• 60g unsalted butter
• 65g flour
• 3g sugar
• 2 eggs
• A pinch of salt

Filling (Crème Pâtissière):

• 2 egg yolks
• 20g cornstarch
• 10g unsalted butter
• 40g sugar
• A pinch of salt
• 200ml fresh milk
• 3ml vanilla
• To enhance the filling’s flavor, blend 100 grams of fruit like durian, mango, or strawberries into a purée and mix it into the cream filling.

Step 1: Make the Crust

• Prepare the Mixture: In a pot, add butter, sugar, salt, and water. Heat on medium until it boils and the butter melts. Stir continuously, then turn off the heat.
• Add Flour: Mix the flour into the hot butter mixture with a wooden spoon until smooth. Return the pot to low heat and stir until the dough forms a smooth, elastic ball that pulls away from the sides of the pot.
• Cool and Add Eggs: Remove the pot from heat and let the dough cool slightly (stirring for 2-3 minutes).
• Beat the eggs in a separate bowl, then gradually add them to the dough, mixing thoroughly after each addition. The dough should be soft, thick, and yellow.

Step 2: Make the Filling

• Mix the Ingredients: Beat egg yolks and sugar until fluffy and pale yellow. Sift in cornstarch and mix well.
• Add Milk: Heat milk until warm and slowly mix it into the egg mixture in small batches, stirring continuously.
• Cook the Filling: Cook the mixture on low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and becomes smooth. Turn off the heat and mix in vanilla, butter, and salt.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

• Preheat the oven to 220°C. Line a baking tray with wax paper.
• Transfer the dough to a piping bag and pipe small round shapes onto the tray.
• Bake at 220°C for 15-20 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 180-190°C and bake for another 15 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Let cool.

Step 4: Assemble the Cream Puff

Let the crust and filling cool completely. Cut a slit in the crust or make a hole at the bottom and fill it with the cream.

The Joy of Savoring Vietnamese Cream Puffs

Vietnamese cream puffs are best savored like any traditional sweet dessert—slowly and with appreciation.

• The First Bite: These delightful, round pastries, filled with creamy goodness, offer a harmonious blend of flavors that will captivate your taste buds from the very first bite.
• Cultural Significance: In Vietnam, enjoying cream puffs is often paired with tea or other beverages, creating a moment to connect with friends, relatives, and loved ones while sharing life stories.
• Sharing Experiences: Be sure to mark this dessert as an essential part of your Vietnamese culinary adventure and spread the joy by sharing it with others.

Frequently Asked Questions

What nationality are cream puffs?

Cream puffs are a dessert that originated in France.

What’s the difference between choux and cream puff?

“Choux” refers to the pastry dough itself, called “pâte à choux” in French. A “cream puff,” on the other hand, is a specific dessert made by baking choux dough into puffy balls and filling them with cream.

What is the fancy name for cream puffs?

The fancy name for cream puffs is “profiterole.” The term “chou à la crème” is also commonly used to describe cream puffs.

What is slang for cream puff?

In slang, “cream puff” can refer to a weak or timid person. It can also describe a vehicle or machine that has been exceptionally well-maintained or is very easy to operate.

Conclusion

Vietnamese cream puffs are a delightful way to experience the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. Their light pastry and creamy filling are sure to win you over! Ready to explore more?

Discover authentic culinary adventures with Joy Journeys. Visit https://joyjourneys.com.vn/tours/ to plan your next unforgettable taste of Vietnam!