Eclairs with vanilla cream

Eclairs with Vanilla Cream - A Classic Delicacy Full of Refinement

Preparation Time: 45 minutes
Baking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of Servings: 12 eclairs

Eclairs are a refined dessert that brings joy with every bite. Although their origins are lost in the mists of time, these delicate pastries have captured the hearts of many due to their fluffy texture and rich cream. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, the recipe for eclairs with vanilla cream is an excellent choice. Let's get started!

Ingredients for the Eclair Dough:
- 200 g butter
- 2 cups milk
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 pinch of salt
- 12 tablespoons flour
- 8 eggs

Ingredients for the Vanilla Cream:
- 1 liter milk
- 50 g butter
- 8 egg yolks
- 6 tablespoons cornstarch
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 1 pinch of salt

Step by Step for a Perfect Result:

1. Preparing the Eclair Dough:
- Start by placing the butter, milk, sugar, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan. Set the saucepan over low heat and stir occasionally. Wait for it to reach a boiling temperature.
- When the mixture starts to boil, add all the flour at once. It is essential to mix quickly and well with a spatula or wooden spoon until the dough pulls away from the sides of the saucepan and forms a compact ball. This step is crucial for achieving the desired texture.
- Once the dough is formed, let it cool for a few minutes. This will prevent the eggs from cooking when you add them.
- Start adding the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition. The dough should become elastic and shiny. It is important to use room temperature eggs to achieve optimal consistency.

2. Shaping the Eclairs:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (or 180°C with fan). Prepare a baking tray by lining it with parchment paper.
- Using a piping bag or a plastic bag with the tip cut off, pipe strips of dough onto the baking tray, leaving enough space between them, as they will expand significantly while baking.
- Bake the eclairs for about 30 minutes, until they are golden and crispy. Avoid opening the oven in the first 20 minutes to prevent steam from escaping.

3. Preparing the Vanilla Cream:
- In a saucepan, heat the milk over low heat. Make sure it does not reach boiling point, as this could lead to scrambled eggs instead of cream.
- In a separate bowl, mix the egg yolks with the sugar, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. This mixture will give the cream its consistency.
- When the milk is warm, gradually pour it over the egg yolk mixture, stirring continuously to avoid curdling the eggs.
- Transfer the mixture back to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the cream thickens. This is a delicate process, so don’t rush it!
- Once thickened, remove the cream from heat and add the butter, stirring well to incorporate it. Cover the cream with plastic wrap, making sure to press it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming.

4. Filling the Eclairs:
- Once the eclairs have completely cooled, cut them lengthwise without splitting them completely. Fill them with the vanilla cream using a spoon or a pastry bag.
- You can decorate the eclairs as you like, either with melted chocolate glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar on top. A personal touch could be adding vanilla extract to the glaze for an extra flavor boost.

Helpful Tips:
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to facilitate blending.
- You can experiment with different flavors by adding a little almond or citrus extract to the vanilla cream.
- Eclairs can be served with a scoop of ice cream or a latte for a complete indulgence.

Nutritional Benefits:
Eclairs with vanilla cream are a source of carbohydrates and fats, but they also contain protein from the eggs, which is important for muscle development. Although they are an indulgent dessert, consumed in moderation, they can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use margarine instead of butter? Yes, but butter provides superior flavor and texture.
- How can I keep the eclairs fresh? It is recommended to consume them the same day, but you can keep the cream separate and fill them before serving.
- What other cream variations can I use? You can try chocolate or coffee cream for a more decadent option.

In conclusion, eclairs with vanilla cream are a delight for both the eyes and the taste buds. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or for personal indulgence, this recipe will bring a smile to your face. Don’t forget to share the joy with your loved ones!