Ah, eclairs. The classic French pastries that never fail to satisfy our sweet tooth cravings. And what’s better than a traditional eclair? A CHOCOLATE eclair, of course! In this article, we’ll be indulging in the most decadent and scrumptious chocolate eclair recipes out there. From classic French-inspired treats to creative twists and vegan alternatives, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re a chocoholic or just looking for a new dessert to impress your friends, these 18 divine chocolate eclair recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, treat yourself to a little luxury, and get ready to indulge in the rich, velvety goodness that only chocolate eclairs can provide.
Classic French Chocolate Eclairs
Experience the quintessential French pastry with this recipe for Classic French Chocolate Eclairs. These delicate, cream-filled pastries are sure to impress and satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (120g) high-quality dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Whisk in melted butter, then eggs.
5. Sift flour into the mixture and stir until smooth.
6. Pour into a piping bag fitted with a large round tip.
7. Pipe onto a parchment-lined baking sheet in long, thin strips.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Allow to cool completely before filling with whipped cream and drizzling with melted chocolate.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Homemade Chocolate Eclairs
Say goodbye to store-bought eclairs and hello to homemade chocolate delights! This simple recipe yields tender, creamy filled pastries smothered in rich, velvety chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter, softened
– Chocolate glaze ingredients: 1 cup (250g) semisweet chocolate chips, 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and softened butter.
3. Combine wet and dry ingredients; mix until smooth.
4. Pipe onto prepared baking sheet in long, thin strips (about 1/4 inch thick).
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until puffed and golden.
6. Allow to cool completely before filling with whipped cream and drizzling with chocolate glaze.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chocolate Eclair Cake with Vanilla Pudding
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and creamy chocolate eclair cake, layered with velvety vanilla pudding. Perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ladyfingers
– 1 cup of strong brewed coffee
– 1 cup of milk
– 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 8 ounces of mascarpone cheese
– 1 cup of vanilla pudding mix
– 1 cup of heavy cream, whipped
– Chocolate shavings or chopped nuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine coffee and milk to create the ladyfinger soaking mixture.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the mixture for about 3-5 seconds per side. They should be soft and pliable but not too wet.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder and sugar until well combined.
4. Assemble the cake by spreading a layer of whipped cream on the bottom of a serving dish, followed by a layer of ladyfingers, then the cocoa mixture, and finally another layer of whipped cream.
5. Chill for at least 3 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None required!
Mini Chocolate Eclairs with Whipped Cream
Experience the rich flavors of France in miniature form with these bite-sized chocolate eclairs topped with a dollop of whipped cream. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, milk, sugar, and salt.
3. Add yeast mixture and melted butter; mix until smooth.
4. Pipe onto prepared baking sheet in desired shapes.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Allow to cool completely before filling with whipped cream and topping with chocolate chips.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vegan Chocolate Eclairs with Dairy-Free Filling
Elevate your dessert game with these rich and creamy vegan chocolate eclairs, featuring a dairy-free filling that’s just as indulgent as its traditional counterpart. Perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup vegan butter or margarine, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs, replaced by 2 flax eggs*
– 1 cup dairy-free milk (such as soy or almond)
– Filling ingredients: 1 cup dairy-free whipped cream, 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, and 2 tablespoons maple syrup
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Add softened vegan butter or margarine and mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., logs).
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until firm to the touch. Allow to cool completely.
5. Prepare the dairy-free filling by whipping together whipped cream, cocoa powder, and maple syrup.
6. Assemble eclairs by filling cooled pastry with dairy-free filling.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chocolate Eclair Dessert Bars
A rich and creamy dessert bar that combines the classic flavors of eclairs with the convenience of a bar cookie. Perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Whipped cream and chopped pecans for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Add melted butter and stir until combined.
3. Press crumb mixture into prepared baking dish.
4. Beat cream cheese and confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Melt chocolate chips in microwave or double boiler. Pour over cream cheese mixture.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until edges are set.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars. Top with whipped cream and chopped pecans, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Gluten-Free Chocolate Eclairs
Treat your taste buds to a rich and decadent dessert with these gluten-free chocolate eclairs. Made with love and a few simple ingredients, this recipe is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup (250ml) whole milk
– 1/2 cup (120g) dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add milk and mix until smooth.
6. Pour mixture into a piping bag fitted with a large round tip.
7. Pipe 4-inch (10cm) long eclairs onto prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until puffed and lightly golden.
9. Allow to cool completely before filling with whipped cream and drizzling with melted chocolate.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Chocolate Eclair Icebox Cake
This decadent dessert is a twist on the classic éclair, with layers of chocolate cake, whipped cream, and rich chocolate pudding. Perfect for hot summer days when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 8 ounces whipped topping
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the crushed cookies and melted butter. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Spread half over the cookie layer.
3. Pour in the whipped topping and spread evenly.
4. Melt the chocolate chips in microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval. Stir in heavy cream and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the whipped cream layer.
6. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Chocolate Eclair Cupcakes with Ganache
These decadent cupcakes combine the best of both worlds: the flaky, buttery pastry of an eclair and the rich, creamy chocolate of a ganache. Perfect for special occasions or as a indulgent treat any time.
Ingredients:
For the cupcakes:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
For the ganache:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
5. Melt chocolate chips; let cool slightly. Fold into batter.
6. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before topping with ganache (see below).
Ganache:
1. Heat cream and butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Remove from heat; add chocolate chips. Let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Stir until smooth; let cool slightly.
Chocolate Eclair Trifle with Fresh Berries
Elevate your dessert game with this decadent trifle featuring chocolate eclairs, fresh berries, and creamy whipped cream. Layers of rich flavors will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of chocolate eclairs
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 cups fresh mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Cut the eclairs into 1-inch pieces.
2. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
3. Begin assembling the trifle by placing half of the eclair pieces in the bottom of a large serving dish.
4. Top with half of the whipped cream mixture, followed by half of the fresh berries.
5. Repeat the layers: eclairs, whipped cream, and berries.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve chilled, garnished with additional fresh berries if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (assembly only)
Chocolate Eclair Cheesecake
Elevate your dessert game with this indulgent cheesecake that combines the best of both worlds – rich chocolate and creamy eclairs. This show-stopping dessert is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup whipped cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, followed by sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract.
4. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or on the stovetop; allow to cool slightly.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared crust. Drizzle with melted chocolate.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Allow cheesecake to cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Chocolate Eclair Donuts with Custard Filling
Treat yourself to a sweet indulgence with these rich and creamy donuts, filled with a velvety custard and topped with a smooth chocolate glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 ounces high-quality dark chocolate, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, milk, sugar, yeast, and salt.
3. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
4. Gradually add melted butter, heavy cream, confectioners’ sugar, and whole milk, whisking until smooth.
5. Pipe the dough into donut shapes and fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Allow donuts to cool before filling with custard made by whisking together 1 cup heavy cream, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract.
7. Dip the filled donuts in melted chocolate and let cool on a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chocolate Eclair Parfait with Layers of Cream
Transform your dessert game with this decadent chocolate eclair parfait featuring layers of creamy goodness. This show-stopping treat is perfect for special occasions or just because.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry and cut into 1-inch wide strips.
2. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
3. Bake pastry strips for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool completely.
4. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler. Stir in sugar and vanilla extract.
5. To assemble the parfait, start with a layer of cooled pastry, followed by a dollop of whipped cream, then a spoonful of melted chocolate. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used up.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (pastry) + refrigeration time
Chocolate Eclair Mousse Cups
These rich and creamy treats are a twist on the classic éclair, with a light-as-air mousse filling and a crispy chocolate shell. Perfect for dessert or as a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 ounces high-quality dark chocolate, melted
– 1/2 cup whipped cream
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 12-15 éclair shells (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Melt the dark chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Fold the melted chocolate into the whipped cream until fully incorporated.
4. Spoon the mousse mixture into éclair shells, filling to the top.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Chocolate Eclair Crepe Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this show-stopping crepe cake, featuring layers of tender chocolate crepes filled with rich eclair cream and topped with a velvety chocolate glaze.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 crepe batter ingredients (see below)
– 1 cup eclair cream filling
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Fresh whipped cream and shaved chocolate for garnish (optional)
Crepe Batter:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 large eggs
– 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 1/4 cups whole milk
Instructions:
1. Prepare crepe batter and cook crepes according to package instructions.
2. Fill cooled crepes with eclair cream filling, leaving a small border around edges.
3. Stack filled crepes, spreading whipped cream between each layer.
4. Melt chocolate chips in double boiler or microwave; pour over cake.
5. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh whipped cream and shaved chocolate, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes (depending on crepe cooking time)
Chocolate Eclair Tart with Chocolate Glaze
This show-stopping tart combines the classic French dessert, éclair, with the simplicity of a graham cracker crust. The result is a rich, chocolatey masterpiece perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the éclair filling:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 ounces high-quality dark chocolate, melted
For the glaze:
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs and sugar in a bowl. Add melted butter and stir until combined. Press into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool completely.
4. Prepare éclair filling by whipping cream, milk, confectioners’ sugar, egg yolks, and salt in a bowl until stiff peaks form.
5. Fold in melted chocolate until well combined.
6. Pour filling into cooled crust and smooth top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set.
8. Prepare glaze by melting chocolate chips with heavy cream in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl.
9. Drizzle glaze over tart and serve.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chocolate Eclair Bread Pudding
Transform leftover bread into a luxurious dessert with the flavors of chocolate eclairs. This indulgent bread pudding is perfect for satisfying sweet cravings.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Add bread cubes and stir until well coated.
4. Pour in milk and chocolate chips; stir until combined.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
8. Drizzle with heavy cream and dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chocolate Eclair Puff Pastry Bites
These bite-sized treats combine the classic flavors of chocolate éclairs with the flaky, buttery goodness of puff pastry. Perfect for a sweet treat or as a show-stopping dessert for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into 1-inch squares.
3. In a small bowl, mix together melted butter and confectioners’ sugar. Brush the mixture evenly onto each square of puff pastry.
4. Place 1-2 chocolate chips in the center of each square. Fold the pastry over the chocolate to form a triangle or a square shape, pressing edges to seal.
5. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Allow to cool before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Indulge your sweet tooth with these 18 decadent chocolate eclair recipes. From classic French eclairs to creative twists like cake, cupcakes, and donuts, there’s something for every chocolate lover. Discover easy homemade eclairs, vegan options, gluten-free treats, and more. Whether you’re in the mood for a rich ganache, whipped cream, or creamy pudding, these mouthwatering recipes will satisfy your cravings. Get ready to dive into a world of chocolatey goodness and treat yourself to a delightful dessert experience.
