Prepare the Pastry Base: In a medium saucepan, combine the water, butter, salt, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to melt the butter.
Add the Flour: Once the butter has melted and the mixture begins to boil, remove the pan from the heat. Quickly add the flour all at once and stir vigorously until the dough forms a smooth paste.
Cook the Dough: Return the saucepan to low heat and continue to stir the dough for about 1-2 minutes. This step helps to dry the dough slightly and removes excess moisture, which will help the pastry puff up when baking.
Add the Eggs: Remove the dough from the heat and allow it to cool slightly for a few minutes. Gradually add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The dough will initially appear lumpy, but keep mixing until it becomes smooth, shiny, and thick. The dough should hold its shape but be soft enough to pipe.
Shape the Pastry: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a spoon or piping bag, shape the dough into small mounds (about the size of a walnut) or pipe them into desired shapes like éclairs or cream puffs.
Bake: Place the shaped dough on the baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up. Avoid opening the oven door for the first 20 minutes to ensure the pastry rises properly. Once done, remove the pastries from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack.
Fill and Serve: Once the pastries have cooled completely, cut a small slit in the side of each puff and fill with your preferred filling—whipped cream, pastry cream, or even chocolate mousse. Serve immediately for the best texture, or refrigerate for later enjoyment.
