Apple strudel filling for the eclairs

Ingredients

Apple Filling

250 grams (8.8 ounces) sour green apples
40 grams (1.4 ounces) walnuts
25 grams (0.9 ounces) butter
70 grams (2.5 ounces) brown sugar
1 gram (0.04 ounces) cinnamon

The Cream

150 grams (5.3 ounces) cream (33-35%)
45 grams (1.6 ounces) cream cheese
25 grams (0.9 ounces) powdered sugar
3 grams (0.1 ounces) vanilla paste

Equipment

Sharp Knife
A sharp knife is essential for cutting apples and nuts evenly. Ensure it's properly sharpened to avoid accidents.
Skillet
Use a dry skillet to toast the nuts, which enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
Saucepan
A heavy-bottomed saucepan is perfect for simmering the apple filling. This prevents burning and ensures even cooking.
Coarse Sieve
Sift the toasted nuts through a coarse sieve to remove excess husk, keeping the mixture smooth.
Electric Mixer
An electric mixer with a whisk attachment is ideal for whipping the cream to the perfect consistency.
Scissors
Scissors make it easier to cut the tops off eclairs cleanly, giving you a neat finish.
Piping Bag with Open French Star Attachment
The piping bag equipped with an Open French Star attachment ensures beautiful, professional-looking cream decoration on your eclairs.

Instructions

Step 1

Step 1: Chop the walnuts into 0.5cm (0.20 inch) pieces. Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until they release a nutty aroma. Sift through a coarse sieve to remove any excess husk. Be sure to watch the nuts closely to prevent burning.

Step 2

Step 2: Peel and cut the apples into 1cm (0.40 inch) cubes. In a saucepan, combine the apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the apples are soft but still retain their shape, about 6-7 minutes. The syrup should become more viscous as some of it evaporates. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Transfer the hot mixture to a bowl, add the toasted walnuts, and cool completely in the fridge or freezer. Cooling quickly prevents further cooking of the apples.

Step 3

Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine cream, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla paste. Ensure both the cream and the cream cheese are cold. Using a whisk attachment, whip the mixture until the first pattern forms on the surface. Continue whipping for a few more minutes until the cream becomes denser. Stop whipping once the cream is firm and be careful not to over-whip, as this can make the mixture grainy.

Step 4

Step 4: Using scissors, cut off the top of the eclairs. Remove or flatten any dough membranes. Fill the eclairs with the cooled apple filling, tamping down with a spoon or palette knife. Pipe the vanilla cream on top using an 'Open French Star' attachment. Be gentle while filling to avoid breaking the eclairs.

Servings

When it comes to serving these delightful Apple Cream Eclairs, the possibilities are endless! 🌟

Enjoy them as a decadent breakfast treat with a steaming cup of coffee or a frothy cappuccino. The rich and creamy vanilla pairs perfectly with the warm apple filling, making it the ultimate morning indulgence. ☕🍏

For a stunning dessert centerpiece, place these eclairs on a beautiful platter and drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce. 🍫✨ Add a few decorative mint leaves or edible flowers for a fancy flair that will wow your dinner guests.

Hosting a brunch or afternoon tea? These Apple Cream Eclairs are the ideal addition. Serve them alongside fresh fruit, mini sandwiches, and a selection of teas for a memorable spread that feels both elegant and homey. 🍓🍰🫖

Variations

Want to make this recipe gluten-free or vegan-friendly? No problem! Here are some delightful variations that everyone can enjoy:

Gluten-Free: Replace the traditional eclair choux pastry with a gluten-free pastry mix, which you can find at most specialty stores. Ensure all your other ingredients like cream cheese and cinnamon are certified gluten-free. 🌾🚫

Vegan: Opt for plant-based alternatives to replace the dairy ingredients. Use coconut cream or soy-based whipped cream, and swap the butter with a vegan margarine. For the cream cheese, choose a dairy-free option like almond or cashew-based cream cheese. Make sure that all your products are labeled as vegan. 🥥🌱

Feel free to experiment and find the combination that works best for your dietary needs while maintaining that delicious flavor and texture!

Faq

Why did my eclairs deflate after baking?
This often happens if the pastry is not baked long enough. Make sure they are golden brown and firm before removing them from the oven.
How do I avoid grainy whipped cream?
Ensure all your ingredients are cold and don't over-whip the cream. Stop as soon as it forms stiff peaks to avoid a grainy texture.
Can I make the apple filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the apple filling up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure it cools completely before using.
What is the best way to toast nuts?
Toast nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent burning. They are ready when they are fragrant and lightly browned.
How can I make my eclairs look more professional?
Using a piping bag with a decorative tip, such as the Open French Star, will give your eclairs a beautiful and professional finish. Practice your piping skills on a flat surface before applying to the eclairs.
Is it necessary to cut the tops off the eclairs?
Cutting the tops off makes it easier to fill the eclairs uniformly and allows for better presentation. However, you can also fill them from the side if you prefer.