Strawberry Eclairs are a delightful French pastry filled with homemade strawberry custard and topped with white chocolate. These treats are perfect for breakfast or dessert and can be customized with various fillings and toppings.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

1. Strawberry Filling:

• 1 cup finely diced fresh strawberries
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• Pinch of fine sea salt
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 4 large egg yolks, at room temperature
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2. Pastry Dough:

• 1 cup water
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature

3. Egg Wash:

• 1 egg, at room temperature
• 1 tablespoon water

4. Chocolate Topping:

• White chocolate
• Pink food coloring

Directions

1. Prepare the Strawberry Filling: Mix diced strawberries with 2 teaspoons of sugar in a small bowl; set aside. In a saucepan, heat milk, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt over medium heat until it begins to simmer; remove from heat. In a separate bowl, whisk together ¼ cup sugar and egg yolks until soft peaks form. Gradually pour the warm milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, stirring constantly. Dissolve cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry; add to the custard mixture. Return the custard to the saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until thick and glossy (3-5 minutes). Remove from heat; stir in butter and vanilla extract until smooth. Fold in the diced strawberries. Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap touching the surface, and chill until needed.
2. Make the Pastry Dough: Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C); line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large saucepan, bring water, butter, sugar, and salt to a rolling boil over medium-high heat; remove from heat. Add flour all at once; stir vigorously until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides. Let the mixture cool slightly; then add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until smooth and glossy.
3. Shape and Bake the Eclairs: Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a large round tip. Pipe 4-inch lines onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Beat together the egg and water for the egg wash; brush over the piped dough. Bake for 10 minutes; then reduce oven temperature to 350°F (177°C) and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. Remove from oven; let cool completely on a wire rack.
4. Fill and Glaze the Eclairs: Once cooled, use a skewer to create a hole in each eclair for filling. Transfer the chilled strawberry filling to a piping bag fitted with a small round tip; pipe filling into each eclair. Melt white chocolate; add pink food coloring as desired. Dip the top of each filled eclair into the melted chocolate; let set before serving.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approximately 180-200 kcal
• Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 15mg
• Sodium: 45mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 19g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 13g
• Protein: 2g
• Calcium: 40mg
• Iron: 0.3mg
• Potassium: 70mg

The Origin of Eclairs

Eclairs have been a staple in French pastry since the 19th century. The name “éclair” is derived from the French word meaning “flash of lightning,” likely referring to how quickly they are eaten. Traditionally, eclairs consist of choux pastry, which is known for its light and airy texture, and are filled with pastry cream before being topped with a chocolate glaze. Over time, different variations have emerged, featuring unique flavors and fillings such as coffee, caramel, matcha, and, of course, strawberry. The combination of crispy pastry, smooth filling, and a glossy chocolate coating makes eclairs one of the most beloved pastries worldwide.

What Makes Strawberry Eclairs Special?

Strawberry eclairs stand out from traditional eclairs due to their fruity and refreshing filling. The strawberry cream inside is typically made using fresh strawberries, sugar, and a rich custard base. This filling adds a naturally sweet and slightly tangy flavor, which enhances the overall taste and creates a unique contrast to the crispy pastry shell. Additionally, the glaze on top is often made with white chocolate, sometimes tinted with a light pink hue to complement the strawberry theme. What also makes this version special is its seasonal appeal. Strawberries are at their peak in spring and summer, making these eclairs an excellent choice for warm-weather celebrations, birthdays, or Valentine’s Day treats. The vibrant color and flavor of the strawberry filling make them not only delicious but visually stunning as well.

Tips for Perfecting Strawberry Eclairs

Making eclairs from scratch may seem intimidating, but with the right techniques, anyone can achieve bakery-quality results. The most crucial part of this recipe is the choux pastry. It should be light, airy, and crisp on the outside while being hollow enough inside to hold the filling. A common mistake is underbaking, which can result in eclairs that collapse once they cool. To avoid this, ensure they are golden brown and feel firm when touched before removing them from the oven.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

Strawberry eclairs can be enjoyed on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. A hot cup of coffee or a light tea complements their richness, while a glass of champagne or rosé wine makes them feel even more indulgent. They are best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, refrigeration can slightly soften the choux pastry, so it’s best to consume them as soon as possible for the perfect texture. These eclairs also make a beautiful addition to a dessert table, especially when arranged alongside other pastries like cream puffs, fruit tarts, or macarons. Their delicate, pastel-colored glaze and elegant appearance make them a showstopper at parties and gatherings.

Health Considerations and Modifications

While strawberry eclairs are undoubtedly a decadent treat, there are ways to make them slightly healthier without compromising on taste. Reducing the sugar in the filling and using dark chocolate instead of white chocolate can lower the overall sweetness. Substituting part of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt can also lighten up the filling while maintaining its creamy texture. For those who are gluten-sensitive, gluten-free flour can be used in the choux pastry, although the texture may differ slightly. Similarly, dairy-free alternatives such as almond milk or coconut cream can replace regular dairy ingredients to create a lactose-free version.

Why You Should Try Making Strawberry Eclairs

Making homemade eclairs is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy a gourmet dessert with a personal touch. Store-bought eclairs often contain preservatives and artificial flavors, whereas homemade ones allow you to use high-quality, fresh ingredients. The process of making choux pastry, filling, and glazing may take some practice, but the end result is worth the effort.

Conclusion

Strawberry eclairs are a delightful fusion of classic French pastry techniques and fresh, fruity flavors. They offer the perfect balance of crisp pastry, smooth custard, and luscious white chocolate glaze, making them an irresistible treat. Whether you are an experienced baker or trying choux pastry for the first time, these eclairs are a fantastic way to bring a touch of elegance to your dessert repertoire. With their beautiful appearance and delicious taste, they are guaranteed to impress anyone who takes a bite. If you are looking for a dessert that is both sophisticated and satisfying, strawberry eclairs are an excellent choice.