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Crispy Choux au Craquelin: A French Delight You Can Master

Crispy Choux au Craquelin: A French Delight You Can Master

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Crispy Choux au Craquelin: A French Delight You Can Master is a charming pastry that combines a light and airy choux shell with a crunchy craquelin topping, filled with rich, creamy goodness. These delightful treats are perfect for impressing guests or enjoying as a sweet indulgence at home. With their beautiful presentation and endless flavor variations, they are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. This recipe is easy to follow, making it suitable for bakers of all skill levels. Gather your ingredients and get ready to create an irresistible dessert that will leave everyone wanting more.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons softened butter (or margarine)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (gluten-free optional)
  • 4 large eggs (or aquafaba for a vegan option)
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 cups whole milk (or almond/oat milk)
  • 1 vanilla bean (or vanilla extract)
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 sheets agar-agar (as a substitute for gelatin)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Craquelin Topping: Mix softened butter, brown sugar, and flour until smooth. Roll out between parchment sheets and chill.
  2. Make the Choux Pastry: Boil water with butter, then add flour and stir until it forms a ball. Cool slightly before adding eggs one at a time.
  3. Pipe Your Puffs: Use a piping bag to form small mounds on a lined baking sheet; top with chilled craquelin circles.
  4. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake until golden brown, about 25–30 minutes.
  5. Prepare Cream Filling: Heat milk with vanilla bean, whisk together yolks, sugar, cornstarch, then combine until thickened.
  6. Assemble: Cut puffs in half and fill them with cream mixture; dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving.

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