Chocolate and Coffee Eclairs

Chocolate and coffee are a match made in heaven, and when combined in a delicious eclair, they create a dessert that is simply irresistible. Eclairs are a classic French pastry that consists of a light and airy choux pastry filled with a creamy filling and topped with a rich chocolate glaze. The addition of coffee to the filling and glaze adds a depth of flavor that takes these eclairs to a whole new level. Whether you are a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you through the process of creating these delectable chocolate and coffee eclairs.

Ingredients:

• For the choux pastry:
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs
• For the coffee filling:
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons instant coffee granules
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• For the chocolate glaze:
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the choux pastry

In a saucepan, combine the water, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, remove the saucepan from the heat and add the flour all at once. Stir vigorously until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.

Step 2: Add the eggs

Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and let it cool for a few minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. The dough should be smooth and glossy.

Step 3: Pipe the eclairs

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Transfer the choux pastry to a piping bag fitted with a large round tip. Pipe 4-inch long eclairs onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between them for expansion. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and puffed. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the coffee filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, instant coffee granules, and powdered sugar. Whip until stiff peaks form. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag fitted with a small round tip.

Step 5: Fill the eclairs

Using a sharp knife, make a small slit on the side of each eclair. Insert the piping tip into the slit and gently squeeze the coffee filling into the eclairs until they are filled. Repeat with all the eclairs.

Step 6: Make the chocolate glaze

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chocolate chips and butter. Stir until smooth and glossy.

Step 7: Glaze the eclairs

Dip the top of each eclair into the chocolate glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the glazed eclairs on a wire rack to set.

Step 8: Serve and enjoy

Once the chocolate glaze has set, your chocolate and coffee eclairs are ready to be enjoyed. Serve them as a delightful dessert or a special treat with a cup of coffee. These eclairs are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Indulge in the heavenly combination of chocolate and coffee with these delectable eclairs. The light and airy choux pastry, combined with the rich coffee filling and chocolate glaze, create a dessert that is sure to impress. Whether you are baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, these chocolate and coffee eclairs are a must-try!