There’s a certain magic that stirs in the air when the aroma of freshly baked sweets fills the cozy corners of a kitchen. Like a cherished family heirloom, Paris-Brest with strawberries carries the warmth of tradition and the harmony of summer’s best fruits.
Why make this recipe
This delightful dessert is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a celebration of carefree sunny days spent with loved ones. Imagine a golden choux pastry, crafted with love, embracing the sweetness of strawberries and clouds of whipped cream. It’s the kind of recipe that invites you to slow down, sip tea on the porch, and savor every bite with those who matter most.
How to make Paris-Brest with Strawberries
Ingredients:
- 80 grams of butter
- 200 ml of water
- 100 grams of flour
- 3 eggs
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 400 ml of very cold liquid cream
- 60 grams of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 400 grams of fresh strawberries
- Icing sugar to sprinkle
- Mint leaves for decoration
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius, letting the warmth fill your kitchen as you gather your ingredients. In a pot, bring the water to a gentle boil along with the butter, salt, and sugar. When it starts bubbling, remove it from heat and swiftly add the flour, mixing like your grandmother would—quick and loving.
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Allow the mixture to cool just a bit, then add the eggs one at a time, stirring until the dough is smooth and waiting to be transformed. Shape this promise of sweetness into a circle on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and send it into the warm embrace of the oven to bake for 30 to 35 minutes.
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Once golden and puffy, let it cool on a rack, filling your home with its heavenly scent. Meanwhile, whip the cold cream with sugar and vanilla until it forms stiff peaks, like fluffy clouds ready to embrace our strawberries.
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When your pastry has cooled, slice it horizontally. Generously spread half of the whipped cream on the bottom half, piling on those luscious chunks of fresh strawberries. Place the other half back on top, and add more whipped cream and strawberries if your heart desires. Finish with a light dusting of icing sugar and delicate mint leaves for that perfect touch.
How to serve Paris-Brest with Strawberries
A slice of Paris-Brest is best enjoyed with good friends or family gathered around your table. Serve it on a pretty plate, and watch as smiles spread like sunshine when your loved ones take their first bites. Don’t forget to pair this decadent treat with a cup of tea or a chilled glass of lemonade for the full Southern experience!
How to store Paris-Brest with Strawberries
If there’s any left (which is quite unlikely!), you can store the pastries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Just be sure to keep the whipped cream separate until you’re ready to serve again, to keep everything fresh and lovely.
Tips to make Paris-Brest with Strawberries
To make your Paris-Brest truly shine, use the freshest strawberries you can find; the sweetness of sun-ripened strawberries will elevate the dessert from lovely to downright divine. You can also experiment with the cream—try adding a hint of lemon zest to the whipped cream for a refreshing twist!
Variations
While strawberries sing their sweet song, don’t shy away from trying other fruits like raspberries or blueberries that might tickle your taste buds. A dollop of lemon curd on top of the whipped cream can also add a delightful zing!
FAQs
1. Can I make the pastry in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the choux pastry a day ahead, just be sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it crisp.
2. Can I freeze Paris-Brest?
While you can freeze the plain pastry, it’s best to whip the cream fresh before serving. Consider preparing a strawberry compote in advance to complement the dish when you’re ready to indulge.
3. What other flavors can I use in the cream?
Feel free to play around! Almond extract or even a bit of cocoa powder can add lovely new flavors to your whipped cream.
Conclusion
As we gather around the table, ready to savor this delightful creation, it’s a reminder of the love baked into our traditions. The joy of sharing food brings us closer, igniting laughter and warmth that wraps around us like a beloved quilt. For those who wish to explore more about the scrumptious details of this delightful dessert, check out the delicious dessert recipe you’ll love or bring a little something special to your kitchen with Zingerman’s delightful offerings found here. So, roll up your sleeves and celebrate the deliciousness that comes from the heart. Happy baking!
Paris-Brest with Strawberries
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius.
- In a pot, bring the water, butter, salt, and sugar to a gentle boil.
- Remove from heat and quickly add the flour, mixing until smooth.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then add the eggs one at a time, stirring until smooth.
- Shape the dough into a circle on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake in the oven for 30 to 35 minutes until golden and puffy.
- Let the pastry cool on a rack. Whip the cold cream with sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- Slice the cooled pastry horizontally. Spread half of the whipped cream on the bottom half and top with strawberries.
- Place the top half back on and add remaining whipped cream and strawberries if desired.
- Dust with icing sugar and garnish with mint leaves.