Cream puff cake

The dessert I invite you to prepare today is a true delight, a refined combination of textures and flavors that will enchant the taste buds of anyone. It is a choux à la crème cake, a dessert with a rich history that has won the hearts of sweet lovers over the decades. This cake is not just a pleasure for the palate but also a work of art, perfect for any special occasion or to indulge in on ordinary days.

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 45 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 10

Essential ingredients:
For the base:
- 300 ml water
- 200 g flour
- 150 ml oil
- 6 eggs
- A pinch of salt

For the cream puffs:
- 150 ml water
- 100 g flour
- 75 ml oil
- A pinch of salt
- 3 eggs

For the vanilla cream:
- 5 eggs
- 5 tablespoons flour
- 1 l milk
- 250 g sugar
- Vanilla (to taste)
- 200 g butter

For decoration:
- 200 ml sweetened liquid cream

Step 1: Preparing the base
This step is essential for achieving a perfect, fluffy, and aromatic base. In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil along with the oil and a pinch of salt. Once the mixture boils, add all the flour at once. Using a whisk, mix quickly until the mixture becomes homogeneous and pulls away from the sides of the saucepan. This is the classic technique for achieving an ideal choux pastry.

Helpful tips:
- Make sure to mix well to avoid lumps.
- Allow the dough to cool slightly before adding the eggs to avoid cooking them.

Once the dough has cooled, crack the eggs into a bowl and add them one by one to the dough, mixing well after each egg. The dough should be smooth and shiny. Then, place the dough in the center of a baking sheet lined with a removable ring cake pan.

Step 2: Baking the base
Bake the base for 15 minutes at 180 degrees Celsius, then reduce the temperature to 170 degrees Celsius and bake for another 6 minutes. When ready, remove it from the pan and let it cool on a platter.

Step 3: Preparing the cream puffs
In a saucepan, bring 150 ml of water to a boil with 75 ml of oil and a pinch of salt. Then add 100 g of flour and mix until a homogeneous dough forms. Let it cool slightly, then add the 3 eggs, mixing well. Using a spoon, form the cream puffs on a baking tray, leaving space between them, and bake until golden.

Step 4: Preparing the vanilla cream
In a pot, bring the milk to a boil along with the vanilla. In a separate bowl, mix the egg yolks with the sugar, flour, and a little warm milk until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. Gradually add the hot milk to this mixture, stirring continuously. Put everything back on the heat and stir until the cream thickens. Once it boils, add the diced butter and mix well. Allow the cream to cool.

Step 5: Assembling the cake
On top of the cooled base, add the vanilla cream, leaving a little space at the edges. Using a piping bag, decorate with cream. Place the cream puffs filled with vanilla cream on top of the cake. Let the cake refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.

Serving suggestions and combinations
This choux à la crème cake is perfect to be served with a cup of coffee or a fragrant tea. It can also be paired with vanilla ice cream or a fruit sauce to add a fruity and refreshing note.

Nutritional benefits and calories
Each serving of cake contains approximately 350 calories, providing a combination of carbohydrates, protein from eggs, and healthy fats from butter. The vanilla cream adds a dose of calcium and vitamins from milk, while the cream puffs provide extra texture and flavor.

Possible variations
To customize the recipe, you can replace the vanilla with orange or lemon essence, adding a delicious citrus note. You can also add chocolate pieces to the vanilla cream or use almond flavoring for a unique taste experience.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use gluten-free flour?
Yes, you can substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour, but make sure to follow the correct proportions and check the ingredient labels.

2. What can I do with leftover cream puffs?
If you have leftover cream puffs, you can fill them with various creams or jams, and they will be delicious that way too.

3. How can I tell if the base is baked enough?
The base is baked when it is golden at the edges and easily pulls away from the sides of the pan, and when touched, it feels firm.

This choux à la crème cake is not just a dessert but a culinary experience that brings joy and satisfaction. Whether it's for a celebration or a simple gathering with friends, this cake will surely be the star of the table. So, let's get to work and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!