Cream puffs

Delicious Choux à la Crème Recipe: Cream Puffs with Chocolate Cream and Whipped Cream

If you are looking for an elegant, easy-to-make, and absolutely delicious dessert, Choux à la Crème is the perfect choice! These delicate cream puffs, filled with a fine chocolate cream and whipped cream, will delight your taste buds and impress any guest. Choux à la Crème are a symbol of fine pastry, with a rich history and global popularity. Let’s start this culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 12-15 cream puffs

Ingredients

For the cream puffs:
- 250 g flour
- 100 g butter
- 100 g oil
- 500 ml water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 6 eggs

For the cream:
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 300 ml milk
- 100 g white chocolate
- 4 tablespoons Nesquik
- 200 ml liquid cream

For decoration:
- 200 ml liquid cream

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the cream puffs

1. Boil the water: In a saucepan, bring water to a boil along with the butter, oil, sugar, and salt. Wait until the mixture reaches a boiling point.

2. Add the flour: When the water is boiling, add all the flour at once and mix vigorously with a whisk. Continue mixing until the dough pulls away from the sides of the saucepan and becomes smooth.

3. Cooling the dough: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the dough cool slightly, about 5 minutes. This is an important step to avoid cooking the eggs when you add them.

4. Incorporating the eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The dough should become smooth and glossy.

5. Forming the cream puffs: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Use a piping bag to form cream puffs on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Shape balls of about 3 cm in diameter.

6. Baking: Bake the cream puffs for 15 minutes at high heat without opening the oven door. Then, reduce the temperature to 180°C and bake for another 10 minutes. The cream puffs will rise beautifully and turn golden.

Step 2: Preparing the cream

1. Beat the egg yolks: In a bowl, beat the two egg yolks with the sugar until they become a light-colored cream.

2. Add the cornstarch: Incorporate the cornstarch into the egg yolk mixture, mixing well until smooth.

3. Heat the milk: Gradually pour in the milk, stirring continuously. Place the pot over low heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency.

4. Incorporate the chocolate and Nesquik: Add the white chocolate and Nesquik powder to the warm cream. Mix well until the chocolate melts completely and the cream becomes smooth. Allow to cool.

5. Add the whipped cream: Whip 200 ml of liquid cream and gently fold it into the cooled chocolate cream. You will get a light and delicious cream.

Step 3: Filling the cream puffs

1. Prepare the cream puffs: Once the cream puffs are completely cooled, cut the top off each puff.

2. Fill the cream puffs: Use a piping bag or a spoon to fill each puff with the chocolate and whipped cream. Cover them with the cut-off tops.

3. Decoration: Whip the remaining 200 ml of liquid cream and use it to decorate the cream puffs. You can sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch.

Practical tips

- Do not open the oven door: The first essential tip is not to open the oven door in the first 15 minutes of baking. This will allow the cream puffs to rise evenly.

- Flour: Use type 00 flour for the best results. This will give a finer texture to the cream puffs.

- Chocolate: You can experiment with different types of chocolate (dark, milk) to achieve a unique flavor. You can also add essences (vanilla, rum) to enhance the taste.

Excellent combinations

Choux à la Crème can be enjoyed alongside a fragrant coffee or delicate tea. Additionally, a refreshing drink, such as fresh fruit juice or a smoothie, will perfectly complement this dessert.

Calories and nutritional benefits

Each cream puff has approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the ingredients used. This dessert provides carbohydrates from the flour, proteins from the eggs, and healthy fats from the butter and cream. Additionally, white chocolate adds antioxidants and energy.

Frequently asked questions

Can I prepare the cream puffs in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cream puffs a day ahead, but it is recommended to fill them with cream before serving to maintain their crispy texture.

What should I do if the dough does not rise?
Make sure the oven temperature is correct and that you haven’t opened the door too early. It is important for the moisture to remain in the oven to help the dough rise.

Can I freeze the cream puffs?
Yes, unfilled cream puffs can be frozen. Make sure to store them in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.

How can I vary the recipe?
You can add different fillings, such as vanilla or caramel cream, or use different flavors in the dough (e.g., lemon zest) to add a personal twist.

Choux à la Crème are more than just a dessert; they are a culinary experience that combines elegance and flavor. So take your time to enjoy every step of the preparation, and the result will surely meet your expectations! Bon appétit!