Puffs with chocolate cream

Chocolate cream puffs - a delicious and refined recipe, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any meal. These little treats are not only a pleasure for the taste buds but also a great opportunity to spend time in the kitchen creating something truly special. Whether you serve them at a party, a gathering with friends, or simply to indulge yourself, chocolate cream puffs are the ideal choice.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 10-12 minutes
Total time: approximately 4 hours (including cooling time for the cream)
Number of servings: 20 puffs

Recipe history
Puffs are a classic dessert with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Over time, they have been reinterpreted in various forms, but their essence remains the same: a combination of textures and flavors that make each bite a memorable experience. The chocolate cream adds a touch of sophistication, transforming a simple dessert into a masterpiece.

Ingredients
For the dough:
- 200 g butter (at room temperature)
- 4 eggs
- 200 g powdered sugar
- 300 g flour
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the cream:
- 150 ml liquid cream
- 100 g chocolate (preferably dark, but milk chocolate can also be used)
- 70 g chocolate (for decoration)
- 40 ml liquid cream (for decoration)

Preparing the cream
1. Breaking the chocolate: Start by breaking the chocolate into small pieces and placing it in a stainless steel bowl. This will be where the magic happens.
2. Adding the cream: Pour the liquid cream over the chocolate.
3. Double boiler: Place the bowl over a double boiler. It is important to stir continuously, as the chocolate can stick to the bottom of the bowl or burn. Wait until the chocolate completely melts and becomes a homogeneous mixture.
4. Cooling: Once the mixture is smooth, place the bowl in the refrigerator for 3-4 hours or, if you have patience, leave it overnight. This will allow the cream to firm up and become easy to whip.

Preparing the dough
1. Mixing the butter: In a large bowl, mix the butter (which should be at room temperature) with the powdered sugar. This will create a creamy and airy base for your dough.
2. Incorporating the eggs: Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This will ensure perfect homogeneity.
3. Adding the vanilla: Incorporate the vanilla extract, which will add a pleasant aroma to the dough.
4. Incorporating the flour: Gradually add the flour, mixing with a spatula or with the mixer on low speed. You will obtain a creamy mixture, but not too liquid, which will form the perfect base for the puffs.

Baking the puffs
1. Preparing the tray: Line a baking tray with parchment paper. It is essential to have a prepared tray so that the puffs do not stick.
2. Forming the mounds: Use a piping bag to form small mounds of dough on the tray, leaving enough space between them, as they will expand while baking.
3. Baking: Preheat the oven to a medium temperature (about 180°C). Place the tray in the oven and bake the puffs for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges become slightly golden. Be careful, as they bake quickly!
4. Cooling: Once baked, remove the puffs from the oven and transfer them to a bowl to cool completely.

Assembling
1. Preparing the cream: After the cream has been in the refrigerator for enough hours, take it out and whip it until it becomes a light and airy foam.
2. Sticking the puffs: Take two puffs and add a portion of chocolate cream between them. Gently press to stick them together.
3. Decorating: Melt the chocolate for decoration over a double boiler along with 40 ml of liquid cream. Use a decorating syringe or a teaspoon to drizzle the melted chocolate over the puffs. This will add an elegant look and intense flavor.
4. Final cooling: Leave the puffs at room temperature until the glaze hardens, then refrigerate them for an hour.

Serving suggestions
Chocolate cream puffs are delicious served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of freshly brewed coffee. You can also opt for a caramel sauce or a fruit puree to add a contrast of flavors and textures.

Variations of the recipe
- White chocolate cream: You can replace the dark chocolate with white chocolate for a sweeter and creamier version.
- Different flavors: Instead of vanilla, you can try almond or rum extracts to give a personal touch to the dough.
- Adding nuts or hazelnuts: In the dough, you can add pieces of nuts or roasted hazelnuts for added crunch.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use another type of chocolate for the cream?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of chocolate, but make sure to choose a good quality for the best flavor.

2. How can I tell when the puffs are baked?
When the edges turn golden and the center feels firm, the puffs are ready. Do not leave them in the oven too long, as they can dry out.

3. Can I prepare the puffs a day in advance?
Yes, it is a great idea! You can prepare them a day in advance and store them in an airtight container.

Nutritional information
Each puff contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the ingredients used. They provide a good source of energy due to the butter and eggs content, but moderate consumption is essential due to the sugar content.

Chocolate cream puffs are a perfect choice for those who love fine sweets. With each step of this recipe, you will get closer to a delicious result. So, prepare your ingredients, put a smile on your face, and let’s enjoy the magic of cooking! Enjoy your meal!