✨ Lemon Cream Éclairs: A Zesty, Creamy Delight! 🍋
1. Make the Choux Pastry
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the flour, stirring vigorously until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and let it cool for 5 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until the dough is smooth and glossy.
2. Pipe and Bake
- Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a large round tip.
- Pipe 4-inch logs onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
- Let the éclairs cool completely on a wire rack.
3. Make the Lemon Cream Filling
- In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold in the lemon curd, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Fill the Éclairs
- Use a small knife or piping tip to make a hole in the bottom of each éclair.
- Fill a piping bag with the lemon cream and pipe it into each éclair.
5. Make the Lemon Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
- Dip the top of each éclair into the glaze and let it set.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve immediately or store in the fridge until ready to enjoy.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Open the Oven: Keep the oven door closed while baking to prevent the éclairs from collapsing.
- Use Fresh Lemon Curd: Homemade or high-quality store-bought curd works best.
- Pipe Evenly: Use a ruler or template to ensure all éclairs are the same size.
- Store Properly: Keep filled éclairs in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Serving Suggestions
These éclairs are perfect for:
- Afternoon Tea: Pair with a cup of Earl Grey or herbal tea.
- Dessert Tables: Add to your spread for a fancy touch.
- Special Occasions: Serve at birthdays, holidays, or dinner parties.
- Weekend Treats: Because you deserve a little indulgence!
Final Thoughts
These Lemon Cream Éclairs are a zesty, creamy, and elegant dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. They’re easier to make than you might think, and the results are absolutely worth it. Give them a try and let me know how they turn out in the comments below!