Mary Berry Chocolate Eclairs

Delve into the elegance of French patisserie with this recipe for Mary Berry's Chocolate Eclairs, a classic dessert that combines light choux pastry with rich cream and chocolate icing. Perfect for any occasion, these eclairs are sure to impress.

Mary Berry's Chocolate Eclairs: A Brief Overview

Chocolate Eclairs are a quintessential French dessert, featuring a delicate balance of textures and flavors. Originating in France, eclairs have become a beloved treat worldwide, celebrated for their combination of tender choux pastry, creamy filling, and luscious chocolate topping.

Ingredients for the Chocolate Eclairs

• For the Choux Pastry: 50g butter, 150ml water, 65g plain flour, and 2 large eggs
• For the Filling: 300ml double cream
• For the Icing: 50g plain chocolate, 15g butter, 2 tbsp water, and 75g icing sugar

Preparation Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C Fan) and prepare baking trays.
2. Make the choux pastry: Heat butter and water, then add flour to form a dough. Cool slightly before adding eggs to achieve a smooth paste.
3. Pipe the eclairs onto the baking trays and bake until golden and crisp.
4. Prepare the filling by whipping the cream until firm.
5. Make the icing by melting chocolate with butter, water, and icing sugar.
6. Assemble the eclairs: Fill with cream and top with chocolate icing.

Storage and Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, keep pastry shells and fillings separate until ready to serve. Reheat in the oven for crispness or quickly in the microwave for convenience.

Nutritional Information

Each eclair approximately contains 155 calories, with 12g fat, 9g carbohydrates, and 3g protein.

FAQ about Mary Berry's Chocolate Eclairs

• Can I make the eclairs in advance? Yes, prepare the choux pastry shells ahead and store at room temperature or freeze. Fill and assemble close to serving.
• How do I ensure the pastry rises well? Avoid opening the oven door during baking and slit each eclair post-baking to release steam.
• Making stable whipped cream? Consider adding gelatin to the cream before whipping for added stability.
• Achieving shiny chocolate icing? Add a teaspoon of vegetable oil or corn syrup to the chocolate mixture for a glossy finish.

These delightful Chocolate Eclairs, inspired by Mary Berry, offer a taste of French sophistication with every bite. Whether for a special occasion or a treat for yourself, they're a testament to the joy of baking and the timeless appeal of classic desserts.

Original recipe inspiration by Mary Berry​​​​.