MO' MOCHA CREAM PUFFS

Mo' Mocha Cream Puffs image

Provided by Cindy Smith Bryson @cindyluhooskitchen

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 cup(s) water
1 stick(s) butter (do not substitute margarine)
1 cup(s) all purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon(s) salt
4 - eggs
FILLING:
2 and 2/3 cup(s) heavy whipping cream, divided
3/4 cup(s) semi sweet chocolate chips
3 tablespoon(s) sugar
1 dash(es) salt
2 teaspoon(s) real vanilla extract
2 teaspoon(s) instant coffee granules

Steps:

FOR THE PUFFS: In a small saucepan over medium heat, bring water and butter to a boil. Add flour and salt all @ once; stir until a smooth ball forms. Remove from heat; let stand 5 minutes.
Add eggs, beat until smooth. Drop batter into 4 mounds 3 inches apart on greased baking sheets. (You will need 4 baking sheets). Bake @ 425 degrees F for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Remove puffs onto wire racks. Cut a slit in each puff, to allow the steam to escape. Cool completely.
FOR THE FILLING: combine 3/4 cup cream, chocolate chips, sugar and salt in small saucepan. Cook over low heat until chips are melted; stir until blended. Remove from heat. Gradually stir in vanilla, coffee, and remaining cream. Transfer to small mixing bowl. Refrigerate until thoroughly chilled. PLEASE NOTE: Prep time above does not include chilling time.
Just before serving, split puffs and remove soft inner dough. Beat filling w/ mixer until stiff. Fill puffs with the mocha cream. Replace tops; sprinkle lightly with powdered sugar and serve immediately. YUM! NOTE: For mo' mocha taste, mix powdered sugar w/ small amount of espresso powder prior to dusting puff tops.