Introduction

Choux à la crème aux fraises is a delightful French dessert that brings together the lightness of choux pastry and the sweetness of strawberries. This treat is perfect for special occasions or simply to enjoy with family and friends. The combination of the airy cream puffs filled with fresh strawberry cream offers a refreshing dessert experience that is both visually appealing and delicious.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Water: 250 ml
– Butter: 100 g
– Flour: 150 g
– Eggs: 3
– Sugar: 50 g
– Fresh strawberries: 300 g
– Heavy cream: 200 ml
– Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
– Powdered sugar: for dusting

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 12 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Cream Puff Dough

In a saucepan, combine water, butter, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, remove it from the heat and add in the flour all at once. Stir vigorously until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pot. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.

Add the Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time into the dough, mixing well after each addition. The dough should be smooth and glossy. Once all the eggs are incorporated, transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a large round tip.

Pipe the Choux

On a baking tray lined with parchment paper, pipe small mounds of dough. Leave enough space between each mound as they will expand during baking. Use a wet finger to smooth the tops if necessary.

Bake the Cream Puffs

Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Bake the cream puffs for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Do not open the oven door during baking, as this can cause them to collapse.

Prepare the Strawberry Cream Filling

In a bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the mascarpone cheese and sugar until well incorporated.

Fold in the Strawberries

Add the chopped strawberries to the whipped cream mixture and fold gently until the strawberries are evenly distributed.

Fill the Cream Puffs

Once the cream puffs are cool, use a small knife to cut a slit on the side of each puff. Fill each one with the strawberry cream filling using a piping bag.

Serve and Enjoy

Arrange the filled cream puffs on a serving plate. They can be enjoyed immediately or refrigerated for a short time before serving.

Notes

Tip for Cream Puff Success

Ensure the dough is well-aerated by mixing thoroughly to achieve the desired puffiness.

Storing Cream Puffs

If not served immediately, store the filled cream puffs in the refrigerator in an airtight container for optimal freshness.

Experiment with Flavors

Feel free to replace strawberries with other fruits or flavored fillings to suit your preference.

Cook techniques

Choux Pastry Preparation

Choux pastry, or pâte à choux, is made by cooking flour, water, butter, and eggs. The key to perfect choux pastry is to ensure that the mixture is well combined and reaches a smooth consistency before piping.

Piping Techniques

When piping choux pastry, using a large round tip can help achieve even, round shapes. Maintain consistent pressure on the pastry bag and pull straight up to avoid uneven peaks.

Baking Tips

Bake the choux at a high temperature initially to create steam, which causes them to puff up. Make sure to avoid opening the oven door during the baking process, as it may cause them to deflate.

Cooling and Filling

Allow the choux to cool completely before filling them with cream. This prevents the filling from melting and ensures a nice texture.

FAQ

What can I use to fill cream puffs?

You can fill cream puffs with whipped cream, pastry cream, or mousse. Fresh fruits can also be added for a flavor enhancement.

How do I store leftover cream puffs?

Leftover cream puffs should be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. They are best consumed within a couple of days to maintain freshness.

Can I freeze cream puffs?

Yes, you can freeze unfilled choux pastry. Store them in an airtight container, and when ready to use, bake them from frozen without thawing.

Why did my choux pastry not rise?

If your choux pastry didn’t rise, it could be due to insufficient moisture, incorrect oven temperature, or opening the oven door too soon. Make sure to follow baking guidelines closely.

Conclusion

The choux à la crème aux fraises is a delightful dessert that combines the lightness of choux pastry with the sweetness of fresh strawberries. With its creamy filling and fresh fruit topping, this recipe offers a refreshing treat perfect for any occasion. Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed as a personal indulgence, these delightful pastries are sure to impress.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Classic Vanilla Cream Puffs

A timeless dessert made with choux pastry filled with smooth vanilla cream. Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar for added elegance.

Chocolate Éclairs

Transform your choux pastry into éclairs filled with rich chocolate cream and topped with a glossy chocolate glaze for a decadent treat.

Fruit-filled Choux Pastry

Experiment with different fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or peaches, filling the choux with custard or whipped cream for a fruity twist.

Caramelized Banana Cream Puffs

Add a tropical flair by incorporating caramelized bananas into the cream filling, creating a sweet and flavorful combination.

Pistachio Cream Choux

Enhance your choux with a pistachio-flavored cream filling, offering a unique and nutty taste that pairs beautifully with the light pastry.

Elderflower and Lemon Choux

Infuse the cream with elderflower syrup and lemon zest for a refreshing and floral note that complements the sweet choux.