These Lemon Cream Puffs are a delightful combination of tangy lemon cream, light choux pastry, and rich mascarpone filling. They are perfect for any occasion, offering a balance of flavor and texture.
Preparation Time: 40 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 10-12 cream puffs
Ingredients
- For the Lemon Cream:
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 liter (18 oz) milk
- 2 eggs
- 120 g (4.2 oz) sugar
- 10 g (1 tsp) vanilla sugar
- 50 g (1.7 oz) cornstarch
- For the Choux Pastry:
- 100 ml (1/2 glass) water
- 100 ml (1/2 glass) milk
- 80 g (6 tbsp) butter
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 120 g (4.2 oz) flour
- 3-4 eggs
- For the Mascarpone Filling:
- 250 g (8.8 oz) mascarpone
Directions
- Prepare the Lemon Cream:
- Heat 1/2 liter of milk with lemon zest until warm, then cool to room temperature.
- Whisk eggs, sugar, and vanilla sugar in a bowl until smooth.
- Mix in cornstarch until fully combined.
- Gradually whisk the cooled milk into the egg mixture and cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until thickened. Let it cool.
- Prepare the Choux Pastry:
- Combine water, milk, butter, salt, and sugar in a saucepan. Heat until butter melts.
- Add flour all at once and stir over medium heat until a smooth ball forms and pulls away from the pan.
- Let the dough cool for 5 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition until the dough reaches a smooth consistency that slowly falls off a spoon.
- Bake the Choux Pastry:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Pipe or spoon small mounds onto a greased baking sheet. Brush tops with beaten egg.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden and puffed. Let cool.
- Prepare the Mascarpone Filling:
- Beat mascarpone in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Cream Puffs:
- Cut cooled choux pastries in half. Spoon lemon cream and a dollop of mascarpone into each puff.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Dust with powdered sugar for a classic presentation.
- Pair with fresh berries for a fruity addition.
- Serve with coffee or tea for a delightful treat.
- Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
- Arrange on a dessert platter for a stunning centerpiece.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the choux dough cools slightly before adding eggs to avoid scrambling.
- Use a piping bag for evenly sized puffs.
- Do not open the oven door while baking to prevent deflation.
- Chill the lemon cream for easier filling.
- Use high-quality mascarpone for the best texture and taste.
Nutritional Benefits
- Eggs provide protein and essential nutrients.
- Lemon zest adds antioxidants and a fresh citrus flavor.
- Mascarpone contributes creamy texture and moderate protein.
- Milk offers calcium for strong bones.
- Low sugar content makes this dessert moderately sweet.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-Friendly: Contains no meat products.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free flour for the choux pastry.
- Customizable Sweetness: Adjust sugar in the lemon cream to your preference.
Nutritional Facts (Per Cream Puff)
- Calories: ~180
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Sodium: ~120 mg
Storage
- Store filled cream puffs in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Freeze unfilled choux pastries for up to 1 month. Thaw and fill as needed.
- Refresh unfilled puffs in a 180°C (356°F) oven for 5 minutes to restore crispness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines the tangy freshness of lemon cream with rich mascarpone.
- Perfectly light choux pastry creates an airy texture.
- Customizable with different toppings and fillings.
- Elegant and impressive for special occasions or casual indulgence.
Conclusion
Lemon Cream Puffs with Mascarpone are a delightful dessert that balances tangy, creamy, and airy textures. With their elegant presentation and delicious flavors, these cream puffs are sure to impress and satisfy at any gathering.