Cream-Filled Choux Buns

IngredientsFor the choux pastry• 1 cup water• ½ cup unsalted butter• 1 cup all-purpose flour• 4 large eggs• 1 tablespoon sugar• ¼ teaspoon saltFor the cream filling• 2 cups whole milk• 3 egg yolks• ½ cup sugar• 3 tablespoons cornstarch• 1 tablespoon butter• 1 teaspoon vanilla extractFor topping (optional)• Powdered sugarInstructions• Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).• Line a baking tray with parchment paper.• Prepare all ingredients before starting for smooth workflow.How to Make• In a saucepan, bring water, butter, sugar, and salt to a boil.• Add flour all at once and stir quickly until a smooth dough forms and pulls away from the pan.• Remove from heat and let cool slightly.• Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until smooth and glossy.• Pipe or spoon small rounds onto the baking tray.• Bake for 25–30 minutes until puffed and golden. Do not open the oven early.• For the cream, heat milk in a saucepan until warm.• Whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.• Slowly add warm milk while whisking, then return to heat.• Cook until thick, remove from heat, add butter and vanilla.• Let cream cool completely.• Slice buns horizontally and pipe or spoon cream inside.• Dust with powdered sugar before serving.