Created by KittenCal on December 12, 2011
Step 1: In a large saucepan, bring the water, butter and salt to a boil over medium heat; add flour all at once and stir until a smooth ball forms. Remove from the heat; let stand for 5 minutes. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition, then continue beating until mixture is smooth and shiny.
Step 2: Drop by 1/4 cupfuls 3 inches apart onto greased baking sheets. Combine milk and egg yolk; brush over puffs.
Step 3: Bake in a 400 degree F oven for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown (DO NOT open the oven while the puffs are baking!)
Step 4: Remove to wire racks, then immediately cut a slit in each for steam to escape; cool.
Step 5: For cream filling; in a large bowl, beat heavy cream until it begins to thicken. Add in confections sugar and vanilla; beat until almost stiff.
Step 6: Split cream puffs; discard soft dough from inside. Fill cream puffs just before serving. Top with dough caps, then dust the tops of the puffs with confectioners sugar. Refrigerate leftovers.