Delicate, buttery, and lightly crisp on the outside with an airy, custard-like center, Nun’s Puffs are a charming recipe rooted in old-world convent kitchens. They’re made from simple ingredients—eggs, milk, butter, and flour—but their magic lies in the transformation: from stovetop paste to golden puffs that rise dramatically in the oven. Traditionally served warm and occasionally dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with honey, these pastries are perfect for breakfast, tea time, or a comforting weekend bake. With minimal effort and maximum delight, Nun’s Puffs capture the joy of baking with humble ingredients and turn them into something almost ethereal.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
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1 cup whole milk
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3/4 cup all-purpose flour
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4 large eggs
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1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional)
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
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Honey or jam, for serving (optional)
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin generously with butter or nonstick spray.
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In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with the milk until it begins to steam, but not boil.
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Remove from heat and quickly stir in the flour and salt until a smooth, thick dough forms. Return to low heat for about 1 minute while stirring constantly.
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Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and let it cool for 5–7 minutes.
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Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until the mixture becomes glossy and smooth.
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Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling them about halfway.
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Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown. Do not open the oven during baking.
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Remove from the oven and cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar if desired, and serve warm with honey or jam.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 165 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
A Heavenly Treat with Humble Origins
Nun’s Puffs, also known in some old texts as pets de nonne (literally “nun’s farts” in French, often a playful culinary name), is a recipe with a rich and intriguing history. These delicate pastries trace their roots to European convent kitchens, where resourceful nuns would whip up simple, satisfying baked goods using pantry basics like eggs, butter, flour, and milk. With limited resources but a great sense of culinary creativity, nuns created treats that were both nourishing and soul-soothing.
The beauty of Nun’s Puffs lies in their transformation—from a sticky, cooked dough into ethereal, golden puffs that rise dramatically in the oven. This miraculous puffing is part of what gave them their heavenly reputation, not to mention the delightful texture that is crisp on the outside and custard-like inside. They were traditionally served to guests or enjoyed during special religious celebrations, often accompanied by a bit of honey or preserves.
Simplicity Meets Elegance in Baking
One of the main appeals of Nun’s Puffs is their simplicity. Unlike many pastries that require elaborate preparation, chilling, and folding, Nun’s Puffs come together in just a few straightforward steps. There’s no need for special equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. All it takes is a saucepan, a mixing bowl, a muffin tin, and a few everyday kitchen staples.
Despite their humble ingredients, Nun’s Puffs feel surprisingly elegant. Their puffy rise, golden crust, and light interior make them suitable for brunch spreads, holiday tables, or tea parties. They are perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers alike, especially those who want maximum visual and textural impact with minimum complexity.
Delightfully Versatile and Customizable
What sets Nun’s Puffs apart from many traditional baked goods is how customizable they are. While the basic recipe requires only a handful of ingredients, you can easily adapt it based on your preferences. Want a sweeter treat? Add a spoonful of sugar and top with powdered sugar or honey. Prefer a savory puff? Try incorporating a pinch of cheese or herbs into the batter for an unexpected twist.
You can also play with toppings and accompaniments. Serve them with fruit preserves, whipped cream, maple syrup, or even a drizzle of caramel. They’re fantastic as a light dessert, a snack with coffee, or a luxurious weekend breakfast item.
A Wonderful Way to Use Eggs
Eggs play a crucial role in this recipe—not just for structure and flavor but also for nutrition. Nun’s Puffs use several eggs, making them a source of protein and other essential nutrients like vitamin D and B12. If you’re looking to use up a carton of eggs or seeking high-protein baked goods that aren’t overly heavy or dense, this recipe is a smart choice.
Unlike more calorie-heavy pastries made with layers of dough and sugar, these puffs are relatively light yet deeply satisfying. They’re an excellent alternative for those who want to indulge in baked goods without the guilt.
Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing
Another wonderful benefit of Nun’s Puffs is their universal appeal. Their simple flavor profile and pillowy texture make them especially kid-friendly. Children love watching the batter puff up in the oven (a great opportunity to teach a little kitchen science!), and they’ll enjoy eating them even more.
For adults, Nun’s Puffs provide a nostalgic nod to simpler times. Whether you serve them at a baby shower, brunch, or even during a cozy weekend at home, these puffs are almost always a conversation starter. They’re unique enough to impress guests yet familiar enough to comfort.
Quick Baking with Big Impact
Unlike pastries that require long rising times, rolling, or laminating, Nun’s Puffs are oven-ready in under 15 minutes. The preparation is closer to a pâte à choux (used in cream puffs or eclairs), but without the hassle of piping and filling. Simply spoon the batter into muffin tins, bake, and watch the magic happen.
In just about half an hour, you’ll have golden, puffy treats that look and taste like they took much longer to make. This is especially useful for last-minute entertaining or when you want to treat yourself or your family without spending the whole day in the kitchen.
Historical Charm Meets Modern Baking
Nun’s Puffs carry with them an air of historical charm, a whisper from the kitchens of centuries-old convents. But they’re also a perfect fit for modern lifestyles. In today’s fast-paced world, many of us look for comfort in food—something simple, made with care, and grounded in tradition. Nun’s Puffs deliver exactly that. Their delicate texture, warm flavor, and lovely appearance provide a soothing culinary experience.
As food trends cycle through health fads and complex restaurant-style plating, recipes like Nun’s Puffs remind us of the joy found in the basics. They invite us to slow down, bake something warm and meaningful, and share it with the people we care about.
Conclusion
In the world of baking, few recipes are as effortlessly rewarding as Nun’s Puffs. They offer a taste of history, a sense of wonder as they puff up in the oven, and a delightfully light and airy texture that appeals to all ages. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is the perfect way to blend ease, flavor, and elegance in one dish. Try Nun’s Puffs today and experience a timeless classic that’s as comforting as it is captivating.
