Chocolate eclairs choux are the kind of treat that can make anyone’s day brighter. Imagine biting into a light, airy pastry filled with silky chocolate cream, topped with glossy chocolate ganache that glistens like a starry night. The combination of textures—fluffy choux pastry and luscious filling—is a culinary hug for your taste buds. mini cream puffs recipe Whether it’s a birthday celebration or an ordinary Wednesday that needs some pizzazz, these delightful pastries never fail to impress.
Now, let’s be honest. The first time I attempted making chocolate eclairs choux, I ended up with what looked like sad little blobs on the baking sheet. They spread out like pancake imposters instead of rising to their glorious potential. French beignets recipe But after a few trials (and errors), I realized that mastering this classic French dessert is not just rewarding but also an adventure filled with sweet surprises and plenty of laughter. For more inspiration, check out this White Chocolate Raspberry Bundt Cake recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe for chocolate eclairs choux combines simple ingredients and techniques for an impressive result
- The rich chocolate flavor complements the airy pastry perfectly
- Visually stunning, these eclairs are sure to steal the show at any gathering
- They’re versatile enough to customize your filling or toppings as desired
I remember the first time I served these to my friends; their eyes widened in disbelief as they took their first bites, followed by delighted smiles and praises that made me feel like a pastry wizard.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for the best structure; avoid whole wheat for traditional texture.
Unsalted Butter: Fresh butter enhances flavor; ensure it’s at room temperature before use. lemon bar butter cookies.
Eggs: Large eggs add moisture; make sure they’re at room temperature for better incorporation.
Milk: Whole milk gives richness; you can substitute with almond milk if preferred.
Sugar: Granulated sugar balances flavors; adjust according to your taste preference.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances sweetness without making it salty.
Dark Chocolate: Choose high-quality chocolate for ganache; it makes all the difference in flavor.
Whipping Cream: Heavy cream is perfect for creating that velvety smooth filling inside the eclair. blueberry cream cheese danish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare the Choux Pastry: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a saucepan over medium heat, combine water, butter, salt, and sugar until boiling vigorously.
Add Flour and Mix It Up!: Remove from heat and quickly stir in flour until fully integrated and forms a ball of dough. This is where magic starts happening!
Incorporate Eggs One at a Time: Gradually add eggs one by one into the mixture while mixing vigorously until smooth and glossy; this step is crucial for achieving that puffy texture.
Piping Time!: Transfer your choux pastry into a piping bag fitted with a large round tip. Pipe 3-inch long strips onto parchment-lined baking sheets—make them look like elegant little logs!
Bake Those Bad Boys!: Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until they puff up and turn golden brown. Avoid opening the oven door during this time—no peeking!
Create Your Chocolate Filling!: While eclairs bake, heat whipping cream in a small saucepan until steaming but not boiling. Pour over chopped dark chocolate in a bowl and let sit before whisking until smooth.
For an even more delightful experience, whip some more cream into soft peaks and fold it gently into your cooled chocolate mixture for added fluffiness. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Cheesy Potato Soup recipe.
Now you have fluffy pastries waiting patiently on your cooling rack while you prepare the ganache.
**Ganache Perfection**: Once your eclairs are cool enough to handle, dip each top into shiny chocolate ganache you prepared earlier. Let them set while you marvel at your masterpiece.
**Fill ‘Em Up**: Using a small piping tip, fill each eclair with luscious chocolate cream from one end until they start to plump up slightly—like little pillows of happiness!
**Presentation Matters**: Arrange them on a serving platter like royalty deserves! You could also sprinkle some cocoa powder or drizzle extra ganache on top if you’re feeling extra fancy.
Enjoy those chocolate eclairs choux fresh or store them in an airtight container for up to two days (if they last that long).
And there you have it! A delightful adventure through making chocolate eclairs choux that’ll leave everyone asking for seconds—even those who claim they’re “just here for the salad.” Happy baking!
You Must Know
- Chocolate eclairs are a delightful treat that combines light choux pastry with rich chocolate
- Avoid overmixing the batter for perfect puffiness
- The aroma of baking eclairs fills the kitchen with warmth, making it an experience to savor
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven and preparing your baking sheets. Then, carefully mix your ingredients for the choux pastry, ensuring a smooth consistency. Pipe the dough onto baking sheets and bake until puffed and golden brown.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with fillings! Instead of classic pastry cream, try whipped cream or flavored custards. You can also top your eclairs with different types of chocolate or add sprinkles for extra flair.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover eclairs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. If you need to reheat them, do so at low temperature to prevent drying out while maintaining their delightful texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect choux pastry, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting
- Don’t open the oven door while baking; this may cause your eclairs to collapse
- A piping bag helps create uniform shapes for a professional look
I remember the first time I made chocolate eclairs; my friends devoured them within minutes and demanded a repeat performance. Their excitement was contagious, making me realize how special these treats are for gatherings.
FAQ
What is choux pastry made of?
Choux pastry consists of flour, water, butter, and eggs combined into a smooth dough.
Can I freeze chocolate eclairs?
Yes, you can freeze unfilled eclairs; just ensure they are tightly wrapped.
How do I prevent my eclairs from deflating?
Avoid opening the oven door during baking and ensure proper cooking time for stability.

Chocolate Eclairs Choux
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 12 eclairs 1x
Description
Treat yourself to these heavenly chocolate eclairs filled with rich chocolate cream and topped with glossy ganache. These light and airy pastries are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a celebration or just a sweet pick-me-up on an ordinary day. Follow this simple recipe, and impress your friends and family with your pastry skills!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 4 oz dark chocolate (for ganache)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a saucepan, combine water, butter, salt, and sugar; bring to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in flour until a ball forms.
- Gradually add eggs one at a time, mixing until smooth.
- Pipe 3-inch strips onto prepared sheets and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- For the filling, heat whipping cream until steaming; pour over chopped dark chocolate and whisk until smooth.
- Dip cooled eclair tops into ganache, then fill each with chocolate cream.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 eclair (50g)
- Calories: 235
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results. Feel free to customize your filling or use different types of chocolate for the ganache. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.