Valentines Day Strawberry Éclairs

There is nothing quite as romantic as a delicate French pastry shared with a loved one on a special occasion. These Valentine's Day Strawberry Éclairs are the ultimate expression of love, combining a light, airy choux pastry with a luscious mascarpone-strawberry filling and a vibrant, glossy pink glaze. Whether you are celebrating an anniversary or simply want to treat someone special, these elegant desserts bring a touch of Parisian charm to your kitchen.

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Mastering the art of the éclair is a rewarding culinary journey. From the sizzle of the butter and milk in the saucepan to the moment the pastry puffs up golden in the oven, every step is a labor of love. The secret lies in the balance of textures—the crisp exterior of the pastry giving way to a cloud-like strawberry cream.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup (120 ml) water
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk
• 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 tbsp (12 g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs

• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, cold
• 1/2 cup (125 g) mascarpone cheese, cold
• 1/3 cup (45 g) powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (150 g) fresh strawberries, hulled and finely diced

• 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
• 2–3 tbsp (30–45 ml) strawberry purée (blend fresh strawberries)
• 1–2 drops pink or red food coloring (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Start the Choux

In a medium saucepan, combine water, milk, butter, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.

Step 3: Incorporate Flour

Add flour all at once and stir vigorously until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides (about 2 minutes).

Step 4: Add Eggs

Remove from heat. Allow to cool for 3–4 minutes. Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, until the dough is glossy and pipeable.

Step 5: Pipe the Dough

Transfer dough to a piping bag fitted with a large round tip. Pipe 10 strips, each about 4 inches long, onto the prepared baking sheet.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 10 minutes at 400°F (200°C), then reduce oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 20 minutes, until golden and puffed. Cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Cream

In a large bowl, whip cream, mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla to stiff peaks. Gently fold in diced strawberries.

Step 8: Fill the Éclairs

Slice each éclair in half lengthwise. Pipe or spoon strawberry cream onto the bottom halves. Replace the tops.

Step 9: Mix the Glaze

Whisk powdered sugar with strawberry purée and food coloring (if using) until smooth and spreadable.

Step 10: Glaze and Serve

Spread glaze on top of each éclair. Let set for 10 minutes before serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure your éclairs rise perfectly, make sure the choux dough is cooked long enough on the stovetop to evaporate excess moisture. When adding eggs, do so slowly; the final dough should be glossy and hold its shape when piped. Always let the shells cool completely before filling to prevent the cream from melting.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For an even deeper berry flavor, you can add a drop of strawberry extract to the mascarpone cream. If strawberries aren't available, raspberries make an excellent substitute for both the filling and the glaze, offering a slightly more tart flavor profile. For a chocolate twist, drizzle the finished éclairs with melted white chocolate.

Serviervorschläge

These éclairs are best enjoyed the same day they are made to maintain the crispness of the pastry. For an extra-special romantic treat, pair them with a chilled glass of sparkling rosé or your favorite champagne. Serve them on a decorative platter garnished with extra fresh strawberry halves.

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Stir sauces, sauté vegetables, and serve meals gently while adding a charming touch to everyday cooking.

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With their delicate layers and vibrant strawberry flavor, these éclairs are sure to become a favorite for any romantic celebration. Enjoy the process of baking and the even greater joy of sharing the results!

Recipe FAQs

→ What makes the choux pastry light and airy?

The combination of water, milk, butter, and eggs cooked and whisked into a dough creates steam during baking, which puffs up the pastry for a light texture.

→ How do I keep the strawberry cream from becoming too runny?

Whipping the cold heavy cream to stiff peaks and gently folding in mascarpone and diced strawberries helps maintain a thick, creamy filling.

→ Can I prepare the éclairs in advance?

Éclairs are best enjoyed fresh the same day, but they can be assembled and refrigerated for up to 24 hours without losing quality.

→ What is the purpose of the pink glaze on top?

The strawberry glaze adds a sweet finishing touch with a glossy appearance and a hint of fresh strawberry flavor, enhancing both look and taste.

→ Are these suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, the éclairs contain no meat products and use ingredients like milk, eggs, and mascarpone, making them vegetarian-friendly.