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### **Instructions**
#### **Make the Choux Pastry:**
1. **Preheat oven** to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **In a saucepan**, combine water, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. **Add flour all at once**, stirring vigorously until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides. Remove from heat.
4. **Let it cool** slightly, then beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. The dough should be smooth and glossy.
5. **Pipe or spoon** the dough onto the prepared baking sheet in small mounds, about 1.5 inches apart.
6. **Bake** for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and puffed. Let cool completely.
#### **Make the Vanilla Custard:**
1. **Heat the milk** in a saucepan over medium heat until just steaming—do not boil.
2. **In a bowl**, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, egg yolks, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
3. **Gradually whisk** the hot milk into the egg mixture to temper it, then return the mixture to the saucepan.
4. **Cook** over medium heat, stirring constantly until the custard thickens (about 5–7 minutes).
5. **Remove from heat**, stir in vanilla, and let cool. Refrigerate until ready to use.
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### **Assemble the Cream Puffs**
1. **Slice each puff** in half or poke a hole in the bottom using a piping tip.
2. **Pipe or spoon** the chilled custard into each puff.
3. **Dust with powdered sugar** or drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra touch of decadence.
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### **Tips & Variations**
* **Chocolate Custard**: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the custard for a rich variation.
* **Whipped Cream Option**: Fold whipped cream into the cooled custard for a lighter texture.
* **Mini Puffs**: Make smaller puffs for elegant bite-sized party desserts.
* **Flavor Twist**: Add a touch of almond or orange extract for a Mediterranean flair.
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### **Final Bite**
**Italian Cream Puffs with Custard** are more than just a dessert—they’re a tradition. Each puff delivers a moment of joy, a taste of Italy, and a reminder that the simplest ingredients often create the most magical results. Serve them with coffee, after dinner, or as the star of your dessert table—and watch them disappear in minutes.
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