Short Description

These Chocolate Glazed Custard-Filled Éclairs are a refined yet approachable dessert featuring soft, pillowy baked pastry filled with smooth vanilla pastry cream and topped with a glossy chocolate glaze. Finished with optional chocolate cookie crumbles or sprinkles, they offer the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and visual appeal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic French-inspired pastry made accessible at home
• Creamy, rich vanilla custard filling
• Glossy, decadent chocolate glaze
• Soft and slightly chewy dough with a tender crumb
• Great for special occasions, holidays, or afternoon tea
• Customizable with different toppings or fillings
• Can be made ahead and assembled before serving
• Impressive dessert presentation without complex techniques
• A fun weekend baking project
• Loved by both kids and adults alike

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the dough:

• warm milk (110°F)
• active dry yeast
• granulated sugar
• unsalted butter, melted
• large egg
• all-purpose flour
• salt

For the vanilla custard filling:

• whole milk
• granulated sugar
• cornstarch
• egg yolks
• vanilla extract
• unsalted butter

For the chocolate glaze:

• semi-sweet chocolate chips
• heavy cream
• Optional: chocolate cookie crumbles or sprinkles for garnish

Directions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add melted butter, egg, flour, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. Roll out the risen dough on a floured surface and cut into 6–8 oval shapes.
5. Place the shaped dough on a lined baking tray. Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes.
6. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Allow the baked shells to cool completely on a wire rack.
7. Meanwhile, make the custard filling: In a saucepan, heat the milk until it just begins to simmer.
8. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks until the mixture is pale.
9. Gradually pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the yolks.
10. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking continuously, until thickened.
11. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter. Chill completely before using.
12. Slice each cooled éclair horizontally. Pipe or spoon the chilled custard onto the bottom half of each éclair, then place the top half over the filling.
13. Prepare the glaze: Heat the heavy cream until steaming, pour it over the chocolate chips, and let sit for 1 minute. Stir until smooth and glossy.
14. Dip the tops of the filled éclairs into the chocolate glaze.
15. Optionally, sprinkle with chocolate cookie crumbles or sprinkles for extra texture and decoration.
16. Chill the éclairs for 15 minutes to set the glaze, then serve.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6–8 éclairs
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Bake Time: 12–15 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: Approximately 3 hours 30 minutes

Variations

• Coffee Custard: Add 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the custard for a mocha flavor.
• Fruit-Filled: Add raspberry jam or a few slices of strawberry beneath the custard.
• Salted Caramel Glaze: Swap the chocolate glaze for a salted caramel topping for a sweet-salty twist.
• Chocolate Custard: Use cocoa powder or melted chocolate in the pastry cream for a double chocolate version.
• Mini Éclairs: Shape the dough into smaller portions for bite-sized treats.
• Nut Topping: Garnish the glaze with chopped toasted almonds or hazelnuts.
• Whipped Cream Variation: Substitute pastry cream with sweetened whipped cream for a lighter filling.

Storage/Reheating

Store filled éclairs in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For best results, consume within 24–48 hours to maintain texture. Avoid freezing filled éclairs, but unfilled pastry shells can be frozen for up to 1 month and thawed before assembly. Reheating is not necessary and may negatively affect the custard and glaze texture.

FAQs

Can I make the custard filling in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the vanilla pastry cream up to 2 days ahead. Keep it chilled in an airtight container until ready to use.

How do I prevent the dough from becoming too dense?

Proper kneading and rising are key. Make sure your yeast is active and allow enough time for both proofing stages.

Do I need to use a stand mixer?

No, the dough can be kneaded by hand. However, a stand mixer will make the process quicker and easier.

Can I use instant pudding instead of homemade custard?

While not traditional, instant vanilla pudding can be used in a pinch, but it won’t have the same rich flavor or texture.

How do I pipe the filling neatly?

Use a piping bag with a round tip for the cleanest results. Chill the custard well so it holds its shape.

What kind of chocolate is best for the glaze?

Semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped bars work well for a balanced, rich glaze.

Can I make éclairs without yeast?

This recipe uses a yeast-based dough, but traditional éclairs are made with choux pastry, which does not require yeast.

How do I store leftover éclairs?

Refrigerate in a sealed container and enjoy within 2–3 days. Note that the dough may soften slightly over time.

Can I flavor the custard with other extracts?

Yes, try almond, hazelnut, or even citrus extracts for a unique flavor profile.

Can I make these éclairs gluten-free?

You can attempt a gluten-free version using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, but texture and rise may vary.

Conclusion

Chocolate Glazed Custard-Filled Éclairs are a delightful combination of soft pastry, smooth vanilla cream, and luxurious chocolate topping. Whether served at a celebration or enjoyed as a weekend baking project, these éclairs deliver classic bakery flavor in a homemade form. With a few simple techniques and quality ingredients, you can recreate this patisserie favorite in your own kitchen.

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