After a long week filled with work and endless responsibilities, I found myself craving something truly indulgent to brighten my spirits. That’s when inspiration struck: a Giant Chocolate Eclair, like nothing I had ever made before! This delightful dessert is not just a feast for the eyes, with its luscious custard cream nestled between crispy pastry, but also satisfies that sweet chocolate craving like no other. Drizzled with velvety Caramilk ganache and adorned with fresh berries, it becomes a stunning centerpiece that will wow your family and friends at any gathering. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to put together, making it the ultimate treat for those who want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that’s sure to become a beloved staple in your home!
Why will you love this Giant Chocolate Eclair?
Decadent and visually stunning, this eclair is sure to impress at any gathering with its rich flavors and striking presentation.
Easy to make, requiring just straightforward ingredients and steps, it’s perfect for novice and experienced bakers alike.
Versatile filling options let you customize with your favorite custards and toppings that suit any occasion.
Crowd-pleasing dessert guarantees smiles and satisfied taste buds, as its creamy and crunchy textures create a memorable indulgence.
Don’t forget, this delightful treat can be made ahead, allowing you more time to enjoy with loved ones. For more inspirations, check out our dessert ideas!
Giant Chocolate Eclair Ingredients
For the Choux Pastry
• Butter – Adds richness and flavor; feel free to use margarine for a dairy-free version.
• Water – Provides moisture for the pastry; make sure it’s the right temperature for best results.
• Plain Flour – Creates the structure of the eclair; avoid self-raising flour to maintain texture.
• Eggs (size 7) – Provides moisture and helps the pastry rise; consider flax eggs for a vegan alternative.
For the Ganache
• Caramilk Chocolate – Offers a sweet and creamy layer; dark chocolate works well for a less sweet topping.
• Cream – For a rich ganache and whipped filling; substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
For the Filling
• Readymade Custard – A convenient filling option; homemade vanilla custard enhances the flavor beautifully.
• Fresh Strawberries, sliced – Adds a touch of freshness; feel free to swap in any seasonal berries you prefer.
• Fresh Raspberries – Provide a sweet-tart flavor contrast; blueberries can be an alternate substitute.
For the Toppings
• Flake Bar – Adds a delightful crunch; any chocolate bar will work for texture on top.
This delightful Giant Chocolate Eclair is not only a treat for the senses but also a canvas for your creativity in the kitchen!
How to Make Giant Chocolate Eclair
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Preheat the oven to 200°C (fan bake) and prepare your baking tray by lining it with baking paper. This step ensures your pastry won’t stick while baking.
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Combine butter and water in a saucepan, bringing it to a boil while stirring. The bubbling mixture will help create the perfect choux pastry texture.
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Remove the saucepan from heat, then stir in the plain flour until a smooth paste forms. You want it to be lump-free and glossy—this is the base of your eclair!
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Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly until everything is well incorporated. Your mixture should be glossy and thick; this helps the pastry rise beautifully.
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Spoon the mixture onto the lined tray, forming a long rectangle about 3 cm from the end and 10 cm wide. Level and round the ends for that classic eclair shape!
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Bake the eclair for 15 minutes at 200°C, then lower the temperature to 180°C and bake for an additional 40 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour to maintain its structure.
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Prepare the ganache by microwaving the Caramilk chocolate and cream together until melted. Stir until you have a smooth mixture and let it cool a bit before using.
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Whip the cream until soft peaks form, then fold in the custard gently to create a rich filling. This delightful mix will add that heavenly creamy center.
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Split the cooled eclair horizontally. Fill the bottom half with your custard mixture, and top it with delicious strawberries and raspberries. Replace the pastry top carefully.
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Spread the ganache generously over the top, sprinkle with crumbled flake, and chill for a bit before serving. This helps the flavors meld together for a divine dessert experience!
Optional: A dusting of powdered sugar before serving adds an elegant touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Giant Chocolate Eclair Variations
Feel free to mix things up with these delightful variations that will inspire your creativity and tantalize your taste buds!
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Vegan Delight: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use coconut cream for the ganache to craft a completely plant-based version. Your friends won’t even notice the difference!
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Lemon Zest: Add fresh lemon zest to your custard for a refreshing citrus twist. This brightens the dessert, creating a delicious contrast to the rich chocolate.
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in crushed nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts, into your filling for an exciting texture! They add both flavor and a delightful crunch to every bite.
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Spiced Chocolate: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of chili powder to your chocolate ganache for an unexpected kick. It’s a fun way to elevate the chocolate experience!
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Flavored Cream: Experiment with flavored whipped cream, such as coffee or orange, in place of the regular cream. This can create an enchanting surprise layer of flavor.
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Seasonal Fruit: Top with any seasonal fruit like peaches or blackberries that you adore. Their natural sweetness and color will make your eclair a showstopper.
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Mini Eclairs: Make mini versions of the eclair for bite-sized delights! Perfect for snacking or sharing at festive gatherings, these little treats are sure to impress.
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Caramel Swirl: Drizzle some rich caramel sauce on top of your ganache to add an extra layer of sweetness. The combination of chocolate and caramel is simply divine!
How to Store and Freeze Giant Chocolate Eclair
Fridge: Keep any leftover Giant Chocolate Eclair in the fridge, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container, for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unfilled eclair shell by wrapping it well in plastic wrap and foil. It can stay in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the shell in the fridge overnight. Warm it in a preheated 180°C oven for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness before filling and serving.
Filling Storage: Homemade custard can last in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container. Avoid freezing custard as it may change texture when thawed.
What to Serve with Giant Chocolate Eclair?
Elevate your dessert experience by pairing this towering delight with warm and inviting accompaniments that will truly complete your meal.
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Fresh Berries: Their juicy sweetness enhances the rich chocolate, creating a burst of freshness that balances the eclair perfectly.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside provides a wonderful temperature contrast and extra creaminess to the dessert.
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Espresso or Coffee: The rich, bold flavors of espresso contrast beautifully with the over-the-top sweetness of the eclair, making for a perfect pairing.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling extra chocolate sauce over each slice allows chocolate lovers to revel in an indulgent experience that’s hard to resist.
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Whipped Cream: Light, fluffy whipped cream adds a delightful and airy dimension that complements the dense custard filling.
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Chilled Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly not only refreshes the palate but also elevates the presentation for any festive occasion.
Delight your family and guests with these pairings that enhance the taste and presentation of your Giant Chocolate Eclair, turning it into an unforgettable experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Giant Chocolate Eclairs are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time while still impressing friends and family! You can prepare the choux pastry up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crispness. The custard filling can also be made ahead—just refrigerate it for up to 3 days in a sealed container. When you’re ready to serve, gently whip the cream and fold it into the custard, then fill the cooled eclair. Finish with the ganache, which can be prepared ahead and warmed slightly before using. This way, you’ll have a stunning dessert without the last-minute stress!
Expert Tips for Giant Chocolate Eclair
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Smooth Pastry: Mix the dough until it’s completely smooth to ensure a light texture without lumps in your Giant Chocolate Eclair.
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Cool Completely: Allow the eclair to cool fully before filling. This step prevents the custard from melting and keeps it perfectly layered.
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Check Oven Temp: Note that ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your eclair as it bakes. Look for a golden color and a firm texture to know it’s done.
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Pre-Made Options: If you’re short on time, use store-bought custard for filling. This can help you whip up your dessert with ease.
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Chill Before Serving: For the best flavor and texture, chill the assembled eclair briefly before serving, allowing the ganache to set beautifully.
Giant Chocolate Eclair Recipe FAQs
What kind of butter should I use for the Giant Chocolate Eclair?
Absolutely! Use unsalted butter for the best flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, margarine works just as well without compromising the taste.
How long can I store my leftover Giant Chocolate Eclair in the fridge?
You can keep any leftover eclair in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh and delicious.
Can I freeze the Giant Chocolate Eclair?
Yes, you can freeze the unfilled eclair shell! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. It’ll last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 10 minutes to restore its crispness.
What should I do if my choux pastry doesn’t rise properly?
Very good question! If your choux pastry doesn’t rise, it might be due to the eggs not being incorporated well, or the oven temperature being too low. Make sure to mix the dough until it’s completely smooth before adding the eggs. Also, ensure that your oven is correctly preheated to the specified temperature, as that initial heat is crucial for creating steam that helps the pastry rise.
What if I have a dairy allergy?
No problem at all! You can easily adapt this Giant Chocolate Eclair recipe by substituting regular cream and butter with coconut cream and plant-based margarine. Additionally, flax eggs can replace the eggs used in the pastry for a vegan version, allowing everyone to enjoy this delightful dessert!
Can I use store-bought custard instead of making my own?
Definitely! Using readymade custard is a fantastic shortcut that saves time while still delivering delicious results. Just ensure you choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor and texture. Feel free to enhance it with a dash of vanilla or almond extract for added richness!
Decadent Giant Chocolate Eclair with Creamy Custard Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (fan bake) and prepare your baking tray by lining it with baking paper.
- Combine butter and water in a saucepan, bringing it to a boil while stirring.
- Remove the saucepan from heat, then stir in the plain flour until a smooth paste forms.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Spoon the mixture onto the lined tray, forming a long rectangle about 3 cm from the end and 10 cm wide.
- Bake the eclair for 15 minutes at 200°C, then lower the temperature to 180°C and bake for an additional 40 minutes.
- Prepare the ganache by microwaving the Caramilk chocolate and cream together until melted.
- Whip the cream until soft peaks form, then fold in the custard gently.
- Split the cooled eclair horizontally. Fill the bottom half with custard mixture, and top it with strawberries and raspberries.
- Spread the ganache generously over the top, sprinkle with crumbled flake, and chill before serving.