Ingredients:
- 70 grams butter
- 1 cup water (250 ml)
- ΒΌ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup plain flour (sifted) (125 grams)
- 2 eggs (whisked)
- 1 additional egg yolk
Cream Filling:
- 300 ml thickened cream (a little extra if you prefer more cream)
- 1 tablespoon icing sugar
Chocolate Icing:
- β cup dark chocolate chips (or milk chocolate if preferred)
- β cup thickened cream
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to moderately hot (190 degrees Celsius, fan-forced).
- In a saucepan, heat water and butter until the butter melts, and the mixture begins to boil. Remove it from heat.
- Stir in sifted flour and mix briskly using a wooden spoon. Return to heat for 30 seconds, continuously stirring. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Transfer the mixture to a bowl and let it cool for 10 minutes.
- Beat in the egg yolk and then each egg, one at a time until combined.
- Using a piping bag, pipe 6 x 13 cm long eclairs onto baking trays lined with baking paper. Bake for 25 minutes.
- Cut eclairs in half horizontally, leaving one long edge intact. Return to the oven for 3 minutes, then let them cool on a rack.
- Whip thickened cream and icing sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Fill each eclair with cream using a piping nozzle, creating a wave pattern down the length. Place in the fridge.
- Place chocolate chips in a bowl. Heat cream in a saucepan until boiling.
- Pour heated cream over chocolate chips, stir, and let sit for a few minutes. Stir until combined.
- Dip the top of each eclair into the glaze, let excess drip off, then invert and place back on the tray.
- Fill any gaps in the glaze with a teaspoon. Refrigerate to set and store.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for the glaze?
A: Absolutely! Customize the glaze to your preference.
Q: How long can I store the eclairs?
A: For best freshness, consume within 2-3 days. Store in the refrigerator.
Q: Can I freeze the filled eclairs?
A: It’s not recommended, as the cream may not retain its texture upon thawing.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, these homemade Chocolate Eclairs are a labor of love resulting in a divine treat. Follow these steps to create a visual and culinary masterpiece that’s sure to impress. Indulge in the decadence of light pastry, fluffy cream, and rich chocolate β a perfect delight for any occasion!