Description:
These Air Fryer Chocolate Eclairs are a delightful take on the classic French pastry. Featuring light and airy choux pastry shells filled with rich vanilla custard and topped with a decadent chocolate glaze, they are perfect for a special treat or celebration.
Preparation Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6–8 eclairs
Nutritional Information (per eclair):
- Calories: ~230 kcal
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
Ingredients:
For the Choux Pastry:
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
For the Custard Filling:
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 egg yolks
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Glaze:
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions:
- Make the Choux Pastry:
- In a saucepan, combine water, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the flour until a dough forms. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and let cool for 5 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Shape and Cook:
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Spoon the choux pastry into a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Pipe 3-inch strips onto parchment paper.
- Place the strips in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching. Cook for 10–12 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely.
- Prepare the Custard Filling:
- In a saucepan, heat milk over medium heat until just simmering.
- In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch. Slowly pour the hot milk into the yolk mixture while whisking.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Let cool.
- Make the Chocolate Glaze:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with heavy cream in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Assemble the Eclairs:
- Cut each choux pastry shell in half lengthwise. Pipe the custard filling into the bottom half of each shell.
- Replace the top half and spread the chocolate glaze over the surface.
- Serve:
- Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes, then serve immediately.
Notes:
- Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but note that the pastry may lose its crispness.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the custard filling a day in advance and keep refrigerated. Assemble before serving.
- Variations: Substitute vanilla custard with whipped cream or chocolate mousse for a twist.
Enjoy these elegant and delicious Air Fryer Chocolate Eclairs as a show-stopping dessert! 😊