Exquisite Recipe for Classic Chocolate Eclairs

Indulge in the timeless delight of Classic Chocolate Eclairs with this meticulously crafted recipe. Perfect for any occasion, these delectable pastries will elevate your baking repertoire to new heights.

Ingredients:

Choux Pastry:

• 1 cup water
• ½ cup butter
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 4 large eggs

Filling:

• 2 ½ cups cold milk
• 1 (5 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Icing:

• 2 (1 ounce) squares semisweet chocolate
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons hot water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Choux Pastry:
   1. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C). Grease a cookie sheet and set aside.
   2. In a medium pot, combine water and butter. Bring to a boil, ensuring complete melting of the butter.
   3. Reduce heat to low; add flour and salt. Stir vigorously until the mixture forms a stiff ball and leaves the sides of the pan.
   4. Remove from heat and add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated.
   5. Using a spoon or pastry bag fitted with a No. 10 or larger tip, spoon or pipe dough onto the prepared cookie sheet in 1 1/2×4-inch strips.
   6. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then reduce heat to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C) and continue baking for about 20 more minutes, until the bottoms sound hollow when tapped lightly. Cool completely on a wire rack.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   1. In a medium bowl, combine milk and pudding mix according to package directions.
   2. In another medium bowl, beat heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually beat in confectioners’ sugar and vanilla.
   3. Fold whipped cream into the prepared pudding mixture.
3. Assemble the Eclairs:
   1. Using a sharp knife, cut the tops off the cooled pastry shells. Fill the shells with the prepared pudding mixture and replace the tops.
4. Prepare the Icing:
   1. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt chocolate and butter together.
   2. Stir in confectioners’ sugar and vanilla until well combined.
   3. Gradually add hot water, one tablespoon at a time, until the icing reaches the desired smooth consistency. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
5. Final Touches:
   1. Drizzle the chocolate icing over the filled eclairs.
   2. Store the eclairs in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Savor the divine taste of these Classic Chocolate Eclairs, a true testament to the artistry of pastry making. Enjoy every bite of this culinary masterpiece!