Éclairs with Chocolate Cream

Steps

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1. 1
   Heat water and butter together in a pot on low heat. Once the butter melts, add the sugar-free sweetener and keep the heat moderate.
2. 2
   Add flour to the pot and stir continuously. The flour will blend with the liquid, and the starch will gradually gelatinize with heat. Keep stirring until the mixture becomes smooth and removes excess moisture.
   ▶ ≈1:40
3. 3
   Transfer the mixture to a bowl and let it cool to a warm temperature. This is crucial to ensure the mixture is not too hot, preventing the eggs from scrambling when added.
   ▶ ≈2:22
4. 4
   Prepare the chocolate filling: melt dark chocolate in the microwave until completely melted and shiny.
   ▶ ≈2:47
5. 5
   Mix the melted chocolate with heavy cream and stir until smooth and well combined. Refrigerate the chocolate cream filling.
   ▶ ≈3:02
6. 6
   Combine the cooled choux paste with eggs. Add eggs gradually, mixing well after each addition. Include a touch of vanilla extract for flavor. Mix until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
   ▶ ≈3:28
7. 7
   Preheat the oven to 200-210°C. Transfer the choux pastry to a piping bag.
   ▶ ≈4:10
8. 8
   Pipe the pastry onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper into long finger shapes. Ensure even piping with smooth tops, avoiding any peaks.
   ▶ ≈4:23
9. 9
   Bake at high temperature for 10-12 minutes, then reduce the heat and continue baking until fully cooked. This method helps evaporate excess moisture and prevents burning.
   ▶ ≈5:05
10. 10
    Once the éclairs have cooled, use a needle or thin sharp tool to make a hole in the bottom. The hole should be small enough to contain the filling when piped in.
    ▶ ≈6:47
11. 11
    Using a piping bag, fill the éclairs with the cooled chocolate cream filling. Apply gentle pressure until the éclair feels heavier, indicating it is fully filled.
    ▶ ≈6:59
12. 12
    Drizzle the filled éclairs with melted dark chocolate on top and optionally sprinkle with roasted almonds for garnish.
    ▶ ≈7:23
13. 13
    The finished éclairs feature a rich filling inside, crispy pastry shells, and a glossy chocolate topping. This completely sugar-free dessert is indulgent and delicious.
    ▶ ≈7:47