Delicious Heart-Shaped Chocolate Eclairs Recipe - Perfect for Valentine's Day

Perfect for Valentine’s Day

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Cooling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 10 éclairs

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Impress your loved ones this Valentine’s Day with these Heart-Shaped Chocolate Éclairs! Made with airy choux pastry, filled with creamy vanilla custard, and topped with rich chocolate glaze, these éclairs are as delightful to eat as they are to look at. The heart shape makes them a charming treat for any romantic occasion.

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Ingredients

For the Choux Pastry (Pâte à Choux):

• 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, diced
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature

For the Vanilla Custard Filling:

• 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 4 large egg yolks
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter

For the Chocolate Glaze:

• 4 ounces (115g) semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 1/3 cup (80ml) heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For Garnish:

• Pink or red sprinkles (optional)
• White chocolate drizzle (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Make the Choux Pastry

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine water, milk, butter, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the butter melts and the mixture starts to simmer.
3. Remove from heat and immediately add the flour, stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon until it forms a smooth ball.
4. Return the saucepan to low heat and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously, to dry out the dough slightly.
5. Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl. Let it cool for 5 minutes.
6. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, until the dough is smooth and shiny.
7. Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe heart shapes onto the prepared baking sheets.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. Turn off the oven and let éclairs cool inside for 10 minutes with the door slightly open.

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Step 2: Make the Vanilla Custard Filling

1. In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to steam (do not boil).
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch until smooth.
3. Gradually add the hot milk to the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until thickened.
5. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract and butter.
6. Transfer the custard to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (touching the surface), and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

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Step 3: Make the Chocolate Glaze

1. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it begins to simmer.
2. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let sit for 1-2 minutes.
3. Add butter and whisk until smooth.

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Step 4: Assemble the Éclairs

1. Using a serrated knife, slice each éclair in half horizontally.
2. Fill a piping bag fitted with a round tip with the custard and pipe onto the bottom halves of the éclairs.
3. Replace the tops and dip them into the chocolate glaze.
4. Add sprinkles or white chocolate drizzle for decoration, if desired.

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Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set the glaze.
2. Serve chilled or at room temperature for a Valentine’s Day treat that will melt hearts!

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Pro Tips

• Perfect Heart Shapes: Draw heart templates on parchment paper to pipe consistent shapes.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the custard filling a day in advance to save time.
• Storage: Store éclairs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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Nutrition Information (Per Éclair)

• Calories: 280
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 18g
• Sodium: 120mg

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Keywords:

Valentine’s Day dessert, heart-shaped éclairs, chocolate éclairs recipe, romantic desserts, easy choux pastry

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FAQ

Can I make these éclairs without a piping bag?

Yes, you can use a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off, though a piping bag gives more precision for heart shapes.

Can I use a different filling?

Absolutely! Whipped cream or chocolate ganache make excellent alternatives to vanilla custard.

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This recipe is designed to be both delicious and visually stunning, making it perfect for Valentine’s Day celebrations. Enjoy baking and sharing the love! ❤️