Nun’s Puffs (Petites Boules de Soeur)
A light, airy, and buttery French-Canadian pastry, Nun’s Puffs (or Petites Boules de Soeur) are like a cross between a popover and a cream puff. They puff up dramatically in the oven and are traditionally dusted with sugar for a delicate sweetness.
📝 Ingredients
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½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
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1 cup whole milk
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¾ cup all-purpose flour
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4 large eggs, room temperature
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½–1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, for batter)
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Extra sugar for sprinkling (powdered or granulated)
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Generously grease a 12-cup muffin tin (or use nonstick spray).
2. Cook Butter & Milk
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In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
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Add milk and heat until just simmering (do not boil).
3. Add Flour & Form Dough
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Reduce heat to low and stir in flour all at once.
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Vigorously mix with a wooden spoon until dough forms a smooth ball (about 1–2 minutes).
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Remove from heat and let cool 2–3 minutes.
4. Incorporate Eggs
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Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing fully after each addition. The dough will look slippery at first but will become smooth and glossy.
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(Optional) Stir in sugar if desired.
5. Bake
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Divide batter evenly among muffin cups (fill ¾ full).
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Bake 25–30 minutes until deep golden brown and puffed.
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Do NOT open the oven early—they may collapse!
6. Serve
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Let cool 5 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a rack.
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While still warm, generously sprinkle with sugar.
🍯 Tips & Variations
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For extra richness: Replace ¼ cup milk with heavy cream.
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Savory twist: Omit sugar and top with grated cheese & herbs.
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Storage: Best eaten fresh, but can be reheated in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes.
These melt-in-your-mouth puffs are perfect with coffee or tea! Want a gluten-free version? Substitute 1:1 GF flour. 😊
