Strawberry Eclair-Style Cream Puffs with Matcha and White Chocolate

Introduction

These cream puffs are a creative twist on the classic eclair, featuring matcha-infused strawberry filling, topped with white chocolate shavings. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to impress your dinner guests.

Ingredients

For the Puff Pastry

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon matcha powder (optional)

For the Matcha-Infused Strawberry Filling

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons matcha powder
• 1/4 cup strawberry jam
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the White Chocolate Topping

• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon shortening (such as Crisco)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Puff Pastry Dough

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the flour, salt, and matcha powder (if using).

Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry Dough

Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm). Cut out circles using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.

Step 3: Bake the Cream Puffs

Bake the cream puffs for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 4: Prepare the Matcha-Infused Strawberry Filling

In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, granulated sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the matcha powder, strawberry jam, and softened butter.

Step 5: Fill the Cream Puffs

Split each cooled cream puff in half horizontally using a serrated knife. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the matcha-infused strawberry filling into the bottom half of each cream puff. Top with the top half of the cream puff.

Step 6: Melt and Drizzle the White Chocolate Topping

Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth. Stir in the shortening to thin out the chocolate. Drizzle over the top of each filled cream puff.

Tips and Variations

• For an extra-matcha kick, dust the tops of the cream puffs with matcha powder before serving.
• Consider using other flavor combinations, such as raspberry or lemon, for a different twist on the classic eclair.
• These cream puffs are best served fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours.