These mini mouthfuls are so irresistible that you'll need to count on two or three per person. If you prefer, substitute 1/2 tsp (2 mL) vanilla for the liqueur.
- Portion size 36 servings
- Credits : Canadian Living Magazine: June 2009
Ingredients
Filling:
Topping:
Method
In small saucepan, bring water, butter, sugar and salt to boil over medium-high heat until melted. With wooden spoon, stir in flour until mixture forms ball and film forms on bottom of pan. Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes to remove some of the moisture. Transfer to stand mixer or bowl. Beat for 1 minute to cool.In separate bowl, lightly beat 2 of the eggs; beat 1/4 cup (50 mL) at a time into cooled mixture, beating well after each addition, until smooth and mixture holds its shape when lifted in spoon.
Using piping bag fitted with 1/4-inch (5 mm) plain tip, pipe dough into 2-inch (5 cm) long, 3/4-inch (2 cm) wide logs, 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart, onto parchment paper-lined baking sheets. Beat remaining egg with 1 tbsp (15 mL) water; brush over éclairs, gently smoothing tops if necessary.
Bake, 1 sheet at a time, in 425°F (220°C) oven until puffed and golden, about 12 minutes. Remove from oven. Pierce each with tip of knife to allow steam to escape. Reduce heat to 375°F (190°C); bake until crisp, about 5 minutes. Transfer to rack; let cool. (Make-ahead: Store in airtight container for up 24 hours.)
Filling: In small saucepan, sprinkle gelatin over 1 tbsp (15 mL) cold water; let stand for 5 minutes. Warm over low heat, without stirring, until dissolved. Set aside. In bowl, beat together cream, sugar and liqueur until soft peaks form. Gradually beat in gelatin mixture.
Topping: Meanwhile in heatproof bowl over saucepan of hot (not boiling) water, melt chocolate with oil; set aside.
Using piping bag fitted with small star tip, pipe filling into each éclair after piercing 1 end of each. Dip tops into chocolate mixture. Refrigerate, chocolate side up, on tray until set, about 30 minutes. (Make-ahead: Refrigerate for up to 8 hours.)
Nutritional facts Per piece: about
- Sodium 7 mg
- Protein 1 g
- Calories 53.0
- Total fat 3 g
- Potassium 20 mg
- Cholesterol 23 mg
- Saturated fat 2 g
- Total carbohydrate 5 g
%RDI
- Iron 1.0
- Folate 4.0
- Calcium 1.0
- Vitamin A 3.0
