Eclairs with chocolate cream - recipe number 500!!!

Chocolate Cream Eclairs - Recipe Number 500!

Congratulations! You have reached a special moment, recipe number 500! What could be more fitting than a dessert that delights the taste buds and brings a smile to everyone’s face? Chocolate cream eclairs are a symbol of refined sweets, often found at festive occasions, but also a treat you can enjoy anytime you wish.

These eclairs are not only delicious, but they are also an expression of the passion for cooking. I will guide you step by step in this culinary adventure, providing you not only with the recipe but also useful information and tips for achieving the best results.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 12 eclairs

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 375 ml water
- 120 ml oil (preferably sunflower or canola oil)
- 185 g flour (all-purpose flour is ideal)
- 5 eggs (medium size, preferably fresh)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the cream:
- 550 ml milk (whole milk adds creaminess)
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 ½ tablespoons cocoa (use good quality cocoa for an intense flavor)
- ½ cup sugar (you can adjust according to taste)
- 3 egg yolks
- 70 g milk chocolate (or dark chocolate for a more intense taste)
- 1 tablespoon butter (adds a smooth texture to the cream)
- Grated zest of one orange (for a touch of freshness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but recommended for flavor)

Nutritional Information

Each eclair contains approximately 220 calories, providing a balance between carbohydrates and healthy fats. Eclairs are a good source of protein due to the eggs and milk, and chocolate brings antioxidants. Whether you enjoy them as an occasional dessert or incorporate them into your daily diet in moderation, eclairs can add a touch of happiness.

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the dough
In a saucepan, combine the water and oil. Place the saucepan over medium heat and wait for it to reach a boiling point. When the water starts to boil, add all the flour at once. Using a wooden spoon, mix quickly and vigorously until the dough pulls away from the sides of the pan and becomes smooth. This is a crucial moment, as insufficient mixing can lead to eclairs that lack volume.

Step 2: Incorporating the eggs
Let the dough cool for 5 minutes, then add the eggs one at a time. It’s important to add them gradually, mixing well after each egg, to allow the dough to fully absorb the eggs. Finally, add the vanilla extract and mix again.

Step 3: Shaping the eclairs
Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place a sheet of parchment paper on a baking tray. Using a piping bag, shape the eclairs, making sure to leave enough space between them, as they will rise during baking.

Step 4: Baking
Place the tray in the preheated oven. For the first 10 minutes, maintain the temperature at 200°C to help the eclairs rise. After that, reduce the temperature to 180°C and continue baking for about 25 minutes, or until the eclairs turn golden. Do not open the oven door during baking, as this can cause the eclairs to collapse.

Step 5: Preparing the cream
Meanwhile, let’s prepare the cream. In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the sugar until you get a fluffy mixture. Add the flour and cocoa, mixing well. Bring the milk to a boil in a separate saucepan, then, when it starts to boil, remove it from the heat and add the egg yolk mixture, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Place the saucepan back on medium heat, stirring continuously, until the cream thickens and reaches the desired consistency.

Step 6: Adding the chocolate
Once the cream has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and add the chopped chocolate, butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well until the chocolate and butter are completely melted. Cover the cream with plastic wrap, ensuring that the wrap is in direct contact with the cream to prevent a crust from forming, and let it cool.

Step 7: Filling the eclairs
Once the eclairs have completely cooled, gently cut them on one side, without separating them completely. Fill each eclair with the chocolate cream using a piping bag or a spoon. This step is essential, as the cream adds richness and flavor to each eclair.

Step 8: Finishing
Dust powdered sugar over the eclairs for an elegant look. You can choose to glaze them with melted chocolate or decorate them with fresh fruit for a pleasant contrast. Place the filled eclairs in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, so the cream can set.

Celebrate with Eclairs!

These chocolate cream eclairs are perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to family gatherings or simply to treat yourself! Serve them alongside a cup of coffee or a fragrant tea, and you will turn any moment into a special one.

Variations and Tips

- Cream variations: You can experiment with different flavors, such as coffee or hazelnut essence, to create unique flavors.
- Savory eclairs: If you want to try a savory version, use cottage cheese and herbs for the filling.
- Storing eclairs: These are best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why don’t the eclairs rise?
Make sure you mixed the dough well and that the oven is properly preheated. Prematurely opening the oven door can cause the eclairs to collapse.

2. Can I use an egg substitute?
Eclairs are an egg-based product, but for a vegan option, you can experiment with banana puree or applesauce, though the final result will be different.

3. How can I achieve a crispier texture?
You can add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the dough to achieve a crisper exterior.

I hope you find this recipe not only easy to follow but also full of inspiration! Each bite of chocolate cream eclair is a journey into the world of flavors and textures, and your success in preparation will surely be rewarded with the smiles of your loved ones. Enjoy!