Elegant Paris-Brest Pastries with Almond Cream

A timeless French classic, Paris-Brest Pastries with Almond Cream are a symphony of elegance and flavor. Named after a famous cycling race, these pastries are made with light choux pastry, shaped into a ring to symbolize a bicycle wheel, and filled with rich, velvety almond cream.

The crisp shell, creamy filling, and dusting of powdered sugar make these pastries a stunning centerpiece for any dessert table. Perfect for celebrations or when you want to impress guests, these delicate treats are the epitome of sophistication.

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• Delicate and Elegant: A beautiful French dessert that’s as stunning as it is delicious.
• Rich Almond Cream: Luxurious, nutty filling pairs perfectly with airy pastry.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: A showstopper for gatherings or afternoon tea.
• Timeless Classic: Inspired by a rich culinary tradition.

Exciting Story

The first time I made Paris-Brest Pastries, it was for a special anniversary dinner. I wanted to create something that felt as grand as the occasion, and these pastries fit the bill perfectly.

As I piped the choux dough into elegant rings and prepared the almond cream, I was reminded of the artistry involved in French patisserie. When I served them, the delicate pastry and rich filling earned rave reviews and added a magical touch to the evening. Now, these Paris-Brest pastries are a go-to when I want to wow my loved ones with a touch of Parisian flair

Why These Paris-Brest Pastries with Almond Cream?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Elegant Presentation: A dessert that’s sure to impress.
• Rich and Creamy Filling: Almond cream brings depth and luxury to every bite.
• Perfect Balance: Light choux pastry contrasts beautifully with the rich filling.
• Customizable: Add chocolate, fruit, or other flavors for a personal twist.

What You Need for Paris-Brest Pastries with Almond Cream

For the Choux Pastry (Pâte à Choux):

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for dusting)
• Sliced almonds, for garnish

For the Almond Cream:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

How to Make Paris-Brest Pastries with Almond Cream

Step 1: Prepare the Choux Pastry

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine butter, water, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and stir in the flour all at once, mixing vigorously until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
4. Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and let cool for 5 minutes.
5. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. The dough should be smooth and glossy.

Step 2: Shape and Bake the Pastries

1. Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip.
2. Pipe 3- to 4-inch rings onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each ring.
3. Sprinkle with sliced almonds.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the pastries cool inside for 10 minutes to prevent deflation.

Step 3: Make the Almond Cream

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Mix in the almond flour, almond extract, and heavy cream until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 4: Assemble the Pastries

1. Slice the cooled choux pastry rings horizontally.
2. Pipe or spoon the almond cream onto the bottom half of each ring.
3. Place the top half of the pastry on the cream and dust with powdered sugar.

Tips for Paris-Brest Pastries with Almond Cream

1. Keep the Oven Closed: Avoid opening the oven door during baking to ensure the choux pastry puffs up properly.
2. Use Fresh Almond Flour: Fresh almond flour ensures a smooth and flavorful cream.
3. Chill the Cream: Refrigerating the almond cream helps it hold its shape when piped.

Substitutions and Variations

• Hazelnut Twist: Replace almond flour with hazelnut flour and almond extract with hazelnut extract.
• Chocolate Filling: Add melted chocolate to the almond cream for a rich variation.
• Fruity Addition: Layer fresh berries or a fruit compote with the almond cream for a refreshing touch.

Make a Healthier Version

• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and coconut cream in place of heavy cream.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour for the choux pastry.
• Reduced Sugar: Use a sugar substitute in the almond cream.

Closing for Paris-Brest Pastries with Almond Cream

And there you have it—Elegant Paris-Brest Pastries with Almond Cream, a dessert that’s as exquisite as it is delicious. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a touch of French sophistication, this recipe brings together delicate pastry and luxurious almond cream in perfect harmony.

Bon appétit, and enjoy your culinary masterpiece!

Frequently Asked Questions for Paris-Brest Pastries with Almond Cream

1. Can I make these pastries ahead of time?
   Yes, bake the choux pastry a day in advance and fill with almond cream before serving.
2. How do I store leftovers?
   Store assembled pastries in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
3. Can I freeze the choux pastry?
   Yes, freeze unfilled choux rings in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw and crisp in the oven before filling.
4. What if I don’t have almond flour?
   Substitute with finely ground almonds.
5. Can I use a different filling?
   Absolutely! Try whipped cream, pastry cream, or hazelnut spread for variety.
6. Why did my choux pastry deflate?
   Opening the oven door during baking or removing the pastries too soon can cause deflation.
7. What’s the best way to pipe the dough?
   Use a large star tip for a decorative finish and even baking.
8. How can I make the cream more stable?
   Add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the almond cream for a firmer texture.
9. What can I serve these pastries with?
   Pair with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of dessert wine.
10. How do I get an even bake?
    Use an oven thermometer to ensure the correct temperature and rotate the baking sheet halfway through.

Enjoy crafting and savoring these delightful Parisian treats! 🥐✨🍮