STRAWBERRY ÉCLAIRS WITH VANILLA CREAM FILLING

Introduction

Strawberry Eclairs are the epitome of a light, refreshing indulgence that combines the delicate flavors of fresh strawberries with the elegance of classic French pastry. The combination of crisp, golden choux pastry, smooth pastry cream, and a sweet, vibrant strawberry glaze is absolutely heavenly. Each bite feels like a little celebration, offering a perfect balance of creamy and fruity goodness. The soft, airy texture of the eclair contrasts beautifully with the luscious fruit topping, creating a dessert that’s both sophisticated and playful.

This dessert brings a sense of joy every time I make it. I remember the first time I decided to give eclairs a try – I was amazed at how the simple ingredients came together to create something so deliciously decadent. The pastry is just the right level of crisp, and the creamy custard filling gives it the perfect richness. Topping it off with fresh strawberries and that shiny glaze makes it feel special, like a little work of art.

Strawberry Eclairs are perfect for spring and summer, when strawberries are at their peak and you want a dessert that’s light yet satisfying. They’re delightful on their own but could also be paired with a cup of tea for a charming afternoon treat. If you’re looking for a dessert that will impress your guests while still feeling fun and approachable, these eclairs will definitely make a lasting impression.

Perfect for:

Elegant dessert tables
Special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries
Afternoon tea or brunch gatherings
Romantic desserts for two
Strawberry and cream lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Strawberry Éclairs with Vanilla Cream Filling will steal the show at your next event:

Delicate and Elegant: Beautifully presented with vibrant strawberries and glossy glaze.
Fresh and Flavorful: Combines fresh fruit with creamy, homemade vanilla filling.
Customizable: Easily adaptable with different fillings or glazes for variety.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Components can be prepared in advance, making assembly quick and simple.
Perfect Balance of Textures: Crisp pastry, creamy filling, and juicy strawberries create a mouthwatering bite.
Impressive Presentation: The vibrant strawberries and glossy glaze make these éclairs the perfect centerpiece for any dessert table.
Light Yet Decadent: The airy pastry and luscious cream offer indulgence without being too heavy.
Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of sweet fruit and smooth cream will appeal to a wide range of tastes.
Seasonal Delight: Perfect for spring and summer when strawberries are at their best.
Great for Special Occasions: Ideal for weddings, parties, or holiday gatherings where you want to impress.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Preparation Time: 1 hour
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 12 éclairs
Calories per serving: Approximately 280-300 calories
Key Nutrients: Carbs: 35g, Fat: 15g, Protein: 6g

Ingredients

For the Choux Pastry:

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

For the Vanilla Cream Filling:

1 ½ cups whole milk
½ cup heavy cream
4 large egg yolks
½ cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup whipped cream (for folding)

For the Strawberry Topping:

1 cup fresh strawberries, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons strawberry jam, warmed for glazing
Powdered sugar, for dusting

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Choux Pastry:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Make the Dough: In a saucepan, bring water, butter, and salt to a boil. Reduce heat, add flour all at once, and stir vigorously until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides.
Incorporate Eggs: Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well until smooth and glossy.
Pipe the Éclairs: Transfer dough to a piping bag fitted with a large round tip. Pipe 4-inch long strips onto the prepared baking sheet.
Bake and Cool: Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F, then reduce temperature to 375°F and bake for another 20 minutes until golden brown. Cool completely before filling.

Make the Vanilla Cream Filling:

Heat the Milk and Cream: In a saucepan, heat milk and cream over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.
Whisk Yolks and Sugar: In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until pale and smooth.
Temper the Eggs: Gradually whisk hot milk into the egg mixture to temper, then return to the saucepan.
Cook and Thicken: Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens into a custard. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
Cool and Fold: Let the custard cool completely, then fold in whipped cream for a light, airy texture.

Assemble the Éclairs:

Fill the Pastry Shells: Slice éclairs in half lengthwise. Pipe or spoon the vanilla cream into the bottom halves.
Add Strawberries: Layer sliced strawberries over the cream filling.
Top and Glaze: Place the top halves back on and brush with warmed strawberry jam for a shiny glaze.
Dust and Serve: Lightly dust with powdered sugar before serving.

How to Serve

Serve Strawberry Éclairs with Vanilla Cream Filling chilled for the best flavor and texture. Pair them with:

Coffee or Tea: Complements the sweetness perfectly.
Champagne or Prosecco: Adds elegance to celebrations.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle for extra decadence.
Fresh Berries: Serve on the side for added color and flavor.
Whipped Cream Dollops: Enhance the creamy experience.

Additional Tips

Keep Pastry Crisp: Fill éclairs just before serving to maintain the pastry’s crispness.
Chill Cream Properly: Ensure the vanilla cream is fully chilled before piping for the best texture.
Perfect Piping Technique: Use a star tip for decorative piping or a round tip for a classic look.
Avoid Overfilling: Too much cream can cause éclairs to become soggy.
Make-Ahead Components: Bake pastry shells and prepare filling a day ahead for quicker assembly.
Use Fresh Strawberries: Opt for ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor and juiciness.
Glaze Carefully: Apply a thin layer of glaze to avoid overwhelming the flavors and keep it glossy.
Piping Precision: Pipe the cream into the éclairs slowly to avoid bursting the pastry and ensure an even filling.
Room Temperature Pastry: Let the baked éclairs cool completely before filling to prevent the cream from melting.
Serve Chilled: Refrigerate the filled éclairs for a short time before serving to let the flavors meld and the pastry stay firm.

Recipe Variations

Chocolate-Dipped Éclairs: Dip the tops in melted chocolate for a rich finish.
Lemon Cream Filling: Replace vanilla with lemon zest and juice for a citrusy twist.
Raspberry Éclairs: Swap strawberries for raspberries and raspberry jam for the glaze.
Nutella Filling: Fold Nutella into the cream for a hazelnut-chocolate flavor.
Berry Medley: Use a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries for variety.
Rose-Flavored Cream: Add a drop of rose water for a floral aroma.
Matcha Filling: Mix matcha powder into the cream for an earthy flavor.
Salted Caramel Glaze: Drizzle salted caramel instead of strawberry jam.
Mini Éclairs: Make bite-sized versions for parties.
Pastry Swaps: Try puff pastry instead of choux for a different texture.

Storage and Freezing

Storage: Refrigerate assembled éclairs in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezing Shells: Freeze unfilled pastry shells for up to 1 month; thaw and crisp in the oven before filling.
Freezing Filling: The vanilla cream filling is best made fresh, as freezing may alter its texture.

FAQ Section

Can I make éclairs without a piping bag?
Yes, you can use a zip-top bag with the corner cut off as a substitute. This works perfectly for piping the choux pastry and custard into the éclairs.
Why did my éclairs collapse?
Underbaking is usually the culprit. Ensure your éclairs bake long enough to fully set and dry out. If they’re soft or wet inside, they may collapse. Bake them until golden brown and dry to the touch for the best results.
Can I use store-bought custard?
Absolutely! While store-bought custard can save time, homemade custard offers a richer flavor and smoother texture that can elevate the overall taste of the éclairs..
How do I keep éclairs crispy?
To maintain their crispiness, store the baked éclairs unfilled. Only fill them with custard or cream just before serving to prevent the pastry from becoming soggy.
What’s the best way to glaze éclairs?
Brush warmed jam or melted chocolate for a smooth finish.

Conclusion

Strawberry Eclairs offer a sublime combination of textures and flavors, making them the perfect indulgence for any occasion. The light, delicate pastry shell gives way to a smooth, velvety cream filling, while the sweet, tangy burst of fresh strawberries elevates the overall experience.

What makes this dessert so special is the harmonious balance between the richness of the eclair and the freshness of the fruit, creating a delightful contrast in every bite. Whether served at a special gathering or enjoyed as a personal treat, Strawberry Eclairs are sure to impress and satisfy.

This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious—feel free to get creative with your own variations, from adding a dusting of powdered sugar to experimenting with different fruit toppings. Perfect for those who appreciate a refined dessert with a fresh twist, Strawberry Eclairs will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire. I can’t wait for you to try this elegant treat—don’t forget to share your creations with me! Enjoy the decadence of each bite!