The History of Profiteroles:
From French Classic to Sydney Favourite

Discover the rich history of profiteroles, from their origins in France to becoming a much-loved dessert in Sydney. Learn what makes them special and how they've evolved over time.

What Are Profiteroles?

Profiteroles, also known as cream puffs, are delicate, bite-sized pastries made from choux pastry (pâte à choux) and traditionally filled with whipped cream, custard, or ice cream. They’re often finished with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dusting of icing sugar — simple, elegant, and absolutely delicious.


Today, profiteroles are enjoyed all over the world — including right here in Sydney — but their origins trace back centuries.

Where Did Profiteroles Come From?

Profiteroles have their roots in French and Italian culinary history. The word “profiterole” is believed to come from the French word profit, meaning “little gift” — a fitting name for such a treat!

The early version of profiteroles dates back to the 16th century, evolving from savoury bread balls served in soups. It wasn’t until the 17th and 18th centuries that profiteroles became the sweet dessert we know today, thanks to French chefs experimenting with choux pastry.

The Rise of Choux Pastry

Choux pastry (pâte à choux) was invented in the 1500s by a chef serving Catherine de Medici in France. Unlike most doughs, choux pastry uses steam to puff up in the oven, creating a hollow centre perfect for fillings.


By the 17th and 18th centuries, profiteroles evolved into a sweet dessert, becoming a staple in French patisseries by the 19th century.

Profiteroles Around the World

Profiteroles have taken on many different forms globally:

  • Italy: Known as bignè, filled with Italian custard.
  • UK: Usually filled with whipped cream and topped with chocolate sauce.
  • Australia: Profiterole towers are popular for weddings, birthdays, and celebrations.

Profiteroles in Sydney Today

At Profiterole Patisserie, we continue this tradition with our own modern twist. Our profiteroles are made fresh daily, filled with vanilla custard or cream, and featured across our cakes and towers.

If you're not up for baking them at home, we've got you covered. Explore our profiterole cakes and towers — available for pick-up and delivery across Sydney.

FAQs

  • What is the difference between profiteroles and eclairs?

    Profiteroles are round, filled with cream or custard, and often topped with chocolate sauce. Eclairs are oblong, filled similarly, but usually glazed with chocolate icing.

  • Can I make profiteroles at home?

    Yes, but they require choux pastry skills and careful baking. Alternatively, you can order freshly made profiteroles from us!



  • Can I customise my profiterole cake/tower?

    Absolutely! We offer customization options for our profiterole cakes and towers. You can choose flavors, toppings, and decorations to suit your preferences. Contact us for more details.

  • Do you offer profiterole cakes for delivery?

    Yes, Profiterole Patisserie offers a wide range of profiterole cakes and towers available for pick-up or delivery within Sydney.