Cream puffs with chocolate ganache

From Preppy Kitchen

Serves 8

Pastry Cream

Ingredients:

• 180g whole milk
• 180g heavy cream
• 1/2 tbsp vanilla extract
• 67g sugar
• 15g cornstarch
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 3 egg yolks
• 1/2 tbsp cold butter

Directions:

1. Combine milk, cream, and vanilla in a heavy saucepan and bring to a boil, then immediately remove from the heat.
2. Whisk dry ingredients together, then whisk in egg yolks.
3. Temper with the milk + cream mixture slowly before fully mixing together.
4. Cook the remaining mixture until thickened, stirring constantly.
5. Cover and chill for at least 2 hrs.

Choux Pastry

Ingredients

• 120g water
• 1/2 stick butter
• 3/4 tbsp sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 425 °F, and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Bring water, butter, sugar, and salt to boil in a saucepan over medium-high heat.
3. When the mixture boils, take the pan off the heat, and immediately add flour, stirring with a wooden spoon until fully incorporated.
4. Once incorporated, cook an additional 60s, continuing to stir.
5. Beat in a stand mixer for 2 mins.
6. Slowly add eggs while beating.
7. Pipe into cream puff shapes, then egg wash and bake 10 mins at 425 °F before dropping the temperature to 375 °F for an additional 15-20 mins.

Chocolate ganache and assembly

Ingredients

• 100g dark chocolate, cut into small pieces
• 100g heavy cream

Directions:

1. Bring the heavy cream to a simmer, then pour over the chocolate and cover.
2. Wait 2-3 mins, then stir the cream and chocolate together until it reaches a smooth and even consistency.
3. Cut the top off the cream puff, then pipe in a healthy filling of pastry cream before setting the top back on, and drizzling with a large tablespoon of chocolate ganache. Garnish with mint if desired.