Profiterole

Profiterole: Airy delights filled with whipped cream and glazed with chocolate

Who can resist a profiterole? These little sweet jewels, with a light and airy texture, are a treat that not only looks spectacular but also delights the taste buds. With a history spanning centuries, the profiterole has been adored by generations, becoming a symbol of refinement in fine desserts. Get ready to explore the art of creating these wonders in the comfort of your own kitchen!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 35-40 profiteroles

Ingredients for choux pastry:
- 100 g butter
- 250 ml water
- 150 g flour
- A pinch of salt
- 4 eggs

Ingredients for filling and decoration:
- 500 ml liquid cream
- 70 g dark chocolate
- 1 packet of vanilla

Step 1: Preparing the choux pastry
Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. It is essential to use quality butter, as it will influence the final texture of the profiteroles. In a heavy-bottomed pot, add 250 ml of water, 100 g of cubed butter, and a pinch of salt. Place the pot on the heat and let the mixture come to a boil. When the water starts to boil, remove the pot from the heat.

Step 2: Adding the flour
Sifted to avoid lumps, flour is the key ingredient for achieving a smooth choux pastry. Add 150 g of flour to the water and butter mixture, stirring quickly with a wooden spoon. It is important to mix well so that the flour is completely incorporated. Place the pot back on medium heat and continue to stir for 1-2 minutes until the dough pulls away from the sides of the pot and forms a compact ball.

Step 3: Cooling and adding the eggs
Once you have a consistent paste, let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This is an important step; if you add the eggs when the dough is too hot, they will coagulate immediately. Once the dough is warm, start adding the eggs one at a time. Mix well after each egg until the dough becomes smooth and shiny. Check the consistency: it should be thick enough to hold on a spoon but still flow easily.

Step 4: Forming the profiteroles
Preheat the oven to 200°C. Prepare a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Use a pastry bag with a wide opening or a spoon to form balls of dough on the tray. You should get about 35-40 profiteroles, depending on the desired size. Make sure to leave enough space between them, as they will rise during baking.

Step 5: Baking
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the profiteroles for 25 minutes. Do not open the oven door in the first 15 minutes, as this can cause the dough to collapse. Use the baking time to prepare the filling!

Step 6: Preparing the filling
Whip 500 ml of liquid cream together with the packet of vanilla until you achieve a firm consistency. It is essential not to overwhip, to avoid turning the cream into butter. Once the profiteroles are baked and completely cooled, fill each ball with cream using the same pastry bag.

Step 7: Glazing with chocolate
Melt 70 g of dark chocolate in a bain-marie or in the microwave, being careful not to burn it. Once melted, let it cool slightly. Dip each profiterole in the melted chocolate, then place them on a platter, forming an elegant pyramid. Sprinkle grated chocolate on top for a special touch.

Step 8: Final cooling
Leave the profiteroles in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. This time allows the flavors to meld and the chocolate to set.

Serving and pairing suggestions
Profiteroles are delicious served plain, but you can add a caramel or fruit sauce for a fresh touch. These delights pair wonderfully with a fragrant coffee or an elegant tea, creating a perfect indulgent moment.

Nutritional benefits
Although profiteroles are a sweet dessert, they can be enjoyed in moderation. The flour contains essential carbohydrates, while the cream provides a source of fats. Dark chocolate adds antioxidants, heart benefits, and a feel-good sensation.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Although margarine can be used, butter offers superior flavor and better texture.

2. How can I store profiteroles?
It is best to consume them fresh, but you can store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 1-2 days.

3. What other variations can I try?
You can experiment with different fillings, such as pastry cream, mascarpone, or ice cream. Additionally, add flavor essences, such as orange or coffee, to customize the dessert.

In conclusion, profiteroles are an elegant choice for any occasion, whether it is a special celebration or a simple family evening. Making them may seem daunting, but with a little patience and practice, you will become an expert in preparing them. So embrace the culinary adventure and enjoy every bite!