Eclairs are a classic French pastry that is loved by many all over the world. They are made from choux pastry, which is then filled with a pastry cream and topped with a ganache. These delicious pastries are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a special event or a simple treat for yourself.
Ingredients
The following ingredients are needed to make eclairs: - 1 cup of water - 1/2 cup of unsalted butter - 1/4 teaspoon of salt - 1 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour - 4 eggs - 2 cups of milk - 1/2 cup of granulated sugar - 1/4 cup of cornstarch - 4 egg yolks - 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract - 4 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate - 1/2 cup of heavy cream
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. 2. In a medium saucepan, bring the water, butter, and salt to a boil over medium-high heat. 3. Add the flour and stir vigorously until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan. 4. Remove from the heat and let cool for 5 minutes. 5. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until the mixture is smooth and glossy. 6. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag fitted with a large round tip. 7. Pipe the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, forming 4-inch long logs. 8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the eclairs are golden brown and puffed up. 9. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
Pastry Cream
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the milk to a simmer over medium heat. 2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks until light and fluffy. 3. Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly. 4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens. 5. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. 6. Transfer the pastry cream to a piping bag fitted with a small round tip.
Chocolate Ganache
1. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until just simmering. 2. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate. 3. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
Assembly
1. Using a sharp knife or a pastry tip, make a small hole at one end of each eclair. 2. Pipe the pastry cream into the hole until it is filled. 3. Dip the top of each eclair into the chocolate ganache, letting the excess drip off. 4. Place the eclairs on a wire rack to let the ganache set.
Nutrition
A serving size of one eclair contains approximately: - 220 calories - 14g fat - 20g carbohydrates - 4g protein - 1g fiber - 12g sugar
Conclusion
Eclairs are a delicious and classic pastry that are perfect for any occasion. They may seem intimidating to make, but with a little patience and practice, anyone can create these delectable treats at home. Don't hesitate to give this recipe a try and impress your friends and family with your baking skills!
