Chocolate Eclairs

Chocolate eclairs are a delightful dessert that combines light, airy pastry with a rich cream filling, topped with a layer of smooth chocolate. These indulgent treats are perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a fancy tea or just craving a sweet indulgence. The process of creating eclairs involves making choux pastry, which is known for its hollow center perfect for filling. The cream used in eclairs is typically a smooth vanilla custard, providing a perfect contrast to the crisp pastry exterior. The final touch is a chocolate glaze that adds a touch of elegance and extra flavor. Preparing eclairs requires a bit of patience and practice, but the results are irresistibly delicious. The key to successful eclairs is ensuring the pastry is fully cooked to maintain its shape when filled. Eclairs invite creativity; you can alter the flavors of the cream and glaze to suit your taste. Serve them chilled for the best experience. These chocolate eclairs are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 250 ml milk
• 250 ml water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 250 g flour
• 200 g cold butter, cut into pieces
• 6-7 eggs

For the Cream (sufficient for 20 eclairs)

• 500 ml milk
• 5 egg yolks
• 1 vanilla pod
• 100 g sugar
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 100 g dark chocolate
• 100 g milk chocolate

Preparation Time

Total Time: 140 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Choux Pastry: In a saucepan, combine the milk, water, butter, salt, and sugar. Heat until the mixture begins to boil.
2. Remove from heat and add the flour all at once, stirring vigorously to prevent lumps. Place the saucepan back on low heat and continue stirring for another minute until well combined.
3. Incorporate the Eggs: Remove the saucepan from heat. Using a wooden spoon, mix in the eggs one at a time. Add the first five eggs confidently, then add the remaining eggs slowly, ensuring the dough is thick enough to hold its shape.
4. Optional Storage: If not using immediately, cover the dough with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
5. Prepare the Cream: Beat the egg yolks with half the sugar until light and airy. Gently mix in the sifted flour and cornstarch until smooth.
6. In a separate saucepan, heat the milk and vanilla pod until it reaches the first boil. Remove the vanilla pod and gradually add the hot milk to the egg mixture while stirring continuously.
7. Pour the cream back into the saucepan and heat gently, stirring, until thickened. Cover with plastic wrap and cool.
8. Shape and Bake the Eclairs: Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and fit a piping bag with a 7 mm nozzle.
9. Pipe the dough into 15 cm long lines on the baking sheet, leaving a 5 cm gap between each.
10. Bake for 10 minutes, slightly open the oven door, then bake for another 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Cool completely.
11. Fill the Eclairs: Use a fine nozzle to pierce each eclair and fill with the prepared cream until the eclair feels heavy.
12. Glaze with Chocolate: Melt the dark and milk chocolates together over a double boiler. Spoon over the eclairs to cover the filling areas.
13. Chill for two hours to set the chocolate and allow the flavors to meld.
14. Enjoy your delicious homemade eclairs!

Tips

• Cooking Tips: Ensure the pastry is not too runny; adjust egg quantity as needed.
• Storage: Eclairs can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Alternate Fillings: Try using coffee-flavored cream for a unique twist.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 250 calories per eclair
• Protein: 6 g per eclair
• Fats: 15 g per eclair
• Carbs: 25 g per eclair

Variations

• Lactose-Free: Use lactose-free milk and cream substitutes.
• Different Toppings: Swap the chocolate glaze for a caramel or fruit-based topping.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
• Garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves for extra freshness.

Best Places

• Café de l'Opera (France) - Known for exquisite pastries. Location: 3 Rue de l'Échelle, Paris, France.
• Pâtisserie Sadaharu Aoki (Japan) - Offers fusion eclairs. Location: 1-1-1 Wada, Suginami, Tokyo, Japan.
• Bouchon Bakery (USA) - Widely recognized for its classic eclairs. Location: 6528 Washington St, Yountville, CA, USA.
• Café Central (Austria) - Historical coffee house with Viennese charm. Location: Herrengasse 14, 1010 Vienna, Austria.
• Ladurée (UK) - Famous for luxury desserts. Location: 1 The Royal Exchange, London, UK.
• Café Sacher (Austria) - Known for impeccable eclairs. Location: Philharmonikerstrasse 4, 1010 Vienna, Austria.
• Pâtisserie Cyril Lignac (France) - Offers unique flavors. Location: 2 Rue de Chaillot, 75116 Paris, France.
• Café Demel (Austria) - Offers traditional Viennese eclairs. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, 1010 Vienna, Austria.
• Magnolia Bakery (USA) - Known for its wide range of pastries. Location: 401 Bleecker St, New York, NY, USA.
• Café Tomaselli (Austria) - Historical significance and great pastries. Location: Alter Markt 9, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.