Oh, Paris-Brest! Just saying the name conjures up images of charming bakeries along the Seine, and that creamy, dreamy filling tucked inside delicate pastry rings. This delightful French dessert is not only a treat for the taste buds, but it also carries a special slice of history. Legend has it that this pastry was created to honor a bicycle race from Paris to Brest in 1910—making it not just delicious, but a sweet piece of nostalgia too!
Every time I whip up a batch of Paris-Brest, I’m transported back to my travels in France. I remember indulging in a piece at a quaint café, the light, crunchy pastry giving way to rich almond cream—a perfect combination, if I do say so! I love sharing this recipe with friends and watching their eyes light up as they taste it for the first time. So, let’s dive right in and make this stunning dessert!
What’s in Paris-Brest?
Pâte à Choux: This is the pastry dough used to create the rings. The magic of pâte à choux is its airy structure, which puffs up beautifully when baked. It’s made simply from flour, water, butter, and eggs. I always recommend using high-quality butter for that rich flavor!
Almonds: These nuts are not just for topping; they add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor. I prefer slivered almonds for this recipe, as their texture contrasts beautifully with the smooth filling.
Milk: Used for creating a luscious almond cream, whole milk works best here for its richness.
Eggs: Essential for both the pâte à choux and the almond cream, eggs add structure and richness to the pastry. Fresh, large eggs are my go-to.
Sugar: Sweetens the almond cream and adds a hint of sweetness to the pâte à choux. I often opt for fine granulated sugar for a smoother texture.
Vanilla Extract: A dash of this lovely extract brings out the flavors of the almond cream. Pure vanilla is worth it!
Is Paris-Brest Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about the health aspects of this heavenly creation. While Paris-Brest may not be the lightest dessert in terms of calories (thanks to all that creamy goodness), it does have some benefits worth noting!
Almonds: These beauties are your friends! Packed with healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins, almonds can help keep your heart happy. Just remember to enjoy them in moderation, especially with all that sugar and butter around!
Eggs: Rich in protein and beneficial nutrients, eggs play a vital role in building muscle and keeping you full. They are a good source of vitamins too!
Keep in mind, though, that moderation is key. This dessert is meant to be savored, not devoured in one sitting. I usually reserve my Paris-Brest for special occasions or as a treat after a lovely dinner!
Ingredients
– Pâte à Choux (homemade):
– 1 cup (240ml) water
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
– 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
– 4 large eggs
– Pinch of salt
– Almond Cream:
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup (100g) almond flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Topping:
– Slivered almonds (about 1/3 cup)
– Powdered sugar for dusting
This recipe serves about 8 people—perfect for sharing with family and friends!
How to Make Paris-Brest?
1. **Make the Pâte à Choux:** In a saucepan, combine water, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil. Add the flour all at once and stir vigorously until a dough forms. Cook over low heat for about 1-2 minutes until the dough pulls away from the sides of the pan.
2. **Add Eggs:** Let the mixture cool for a few minutes, then add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until smooth and glossy.
3. **Pipe the Rings:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Transfer the dough to a piping bag and pipe out rings (about 6 inches in diameter) on the sheet. Pipe a smaller ring inside for a deeper filling.
4. **Top with Almonds:** Brush the rings with a bit of water and sprinkle slivered almonds on top.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and puffed. Don’t open the oven door too soon or they may collapse!
6. **Make the Almond Cream:** While the pastry cools, beat together sugar and softened butter until creamy. Mix in almond flour, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
7. **Fill the Rings:** Once the puffs have cooled, cut them in half and fill them generously with almond cream using either a piping bag or a spatula.
8. **Dust and Serve:** Dust the tops with powdered sugar and get ready for the delectable smiles as you serve!
Little Tips for Perfecting Your Paris-Brest
– **Don’t rush the baking!** Allow the pastries to cool fully before filling them, or they’ll get soggy.
– **Customization galore!** Feel free to experiment with flavors; a hint of orange zest in the almond cream can be delightful!
– **Make it ahead!** The pâte à choux can be made in advance and frozen until you’re ready to bake, making this a great make-ahead dessert!
I just love how this Paris-Brest recipe brings joy and a touch of French elegance into my kitchen! It’s a wonderful way to celebrate any special occasion—or just a little indulgent moment. I truly hope you give it a whirl! Trust me, when that first bite hits your lips, you’ll be in dessert heaven. Be sure to let me know how your Paris-Brest turns out; I can’t wait to hear your sweet success stories!