Discover the Delight of Paris-Brest: A Pastry Lover’s Dream

The Memory Behind This Treat

The first time I encountered the Delight of Paris-Brest, I was wandering the charming streets of Paris with my grandmother. We stumbled upon a quaint patisserie, its windows glistening with golden pastries. My grandmother, a lover of all things sweet, insisted we try this curious pastry that resembled a wheel. As we sat on a sun-dappled bench, the crisp choux pastry and creamy hazelnut filling were a revelation—a moment of pure bliss that has lingered with me ever since.

Years later, I decided to recreate that magical experience in my own kitchen. Armed with memories and a slightly intimidating recipe, I dove into the world of choux pastry. My first attempt was far from perfect. The dough was too sticky, and my piping skills left much to be desired. But with each iteration, I got closer to that Parisian dream. The aroma of toasting hazelnuts and the nutty sweetness of the praline paste brought my kitchen to life, much like that bustling patisserie.

Every time I bake a Paris-Brest, it feels like a tribute to that day—a reminder of the joy and connection that food can bring. If you’ve never tried making this pastry before, don’t worry. Just like my journey, yours will be filled with learning and delicious rewards. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the challenge, and discover the delight of Paris-Brest right in your own home.

How To Make It (Mix & Ingredients)

Ready to dive into the delight of Paris-Brest? This pastry is a beautiful journey from start to finish, and I’m here to guide you through it. Let’s break it down step-by-step, so you end up with a stunning dessert that looks straight out of a French patisserie.

Praline Paste

Start by crafting the heart of the Paris-Brest: the praline paste. Combine water, sugar, corn syrup, toasted hazelnuts, almonds, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan. Stir over medium-high heat until you achieve that lovely deep golden hue—think of it as caramel’s more sophisticated cousin. Add a touch of bicarb soda for that perfect texture, then spread it onto a well-oiled baking tray to set. Once it’s hardened, blitz it in a food processor until smooth. This nutty, buttery concoction will take your pastry cream to the next level.

Pastry Cream

For the creamy filling, mix flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Blend in egg yolks until you get a smooth paste. Slowly incorporate the hot milk, ensuring a lump-free consistency. Transfer this mix to the stove and cook until it thickens to a luscious cream. Once off the heat, stir in vanilla and cold cubed butter until silky. Let it cool before folding in softened butter. This rich, velvety cream, kissed by the praline, will have you dreaming of Paris with every bite.

Remember, patience is key. Each component complements the other, creating the ultimate delight of Paris-Brest. And if you ever want to try another delicious treat, consider exploring our classic Croquembouche or the comforting Eclairs for more choux pastry adventures.

Also Read: Transform Your Mornings with Creamy Pumpkin Spice Overnight Oats

Make-Ahead & Storage

One of the joys of the Delight of Paris-Brest is its ability to be prepared in stages, making it a perfect dessert for organized bakers. To keep things stress-free, you can make the components separately and assemble them when you’re ready to serve.

Start by preparing the praline paste and pastry cream up to three days in advance. Store the praline paste in an airtight container at room temperature. Keep the pastry cream covered in the fridge, ensuring it’s well-pressed with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Choux pastry can be somewhat finicky, but you can bake it a day ahead. Once it’s cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. When ready to serve, a quick reheat in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes can help restore its crispiness.

Once your Paris-Brest is assembled, it’s best enjoyed fresh. However, if you find yourself with leftovers (a rare occurrence!), store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The pastry will soften over time, but the flavors will meld beautifully. For a delightful variation, consider breaking down any leftovers into individual servings and freezing them for a quick treat later. Just let these portions thaw in the fridge before enjoying. Remember, a well-planned dessert leaves more time for savoring—now that’s the Delight of Paris-Brest!

Best Ingredients & Party Variations

When it comes to creating the Delight of Paris-Brest, the magic lies in using the best ingredients. Fresh eggs and high-quality butter are essential for achieving that light and airy choux pastry. The hazelnut pastry cream, a hallmark of this dessert, requires toasted hazelnuts and flaked almonds to create a rich, nutty praline paste. Always choose whole milk for the pastry cream to add a creamy depth, and don’t skimp on the vanilla bean paste—its aromatic sweetness elevates the entire dish.

Now, let’s talk party variations because, who doesn’t love a twist? If you’re hosting a themed soirée, consider flavoring the pastry cream with a hint of espresso for a mocha touch that complements the nutty flavors beautifully. For a festive flair, sprinkle the top with edible gold dust after the final dusting of powdered sugar. If you’re looking for a summer twist, add a layer of fresh berries inside before topping with the second layer of choux pastry. The berries’ tanginess can cut through the sweetness, making it a refreshing treat.

Whether you’re crafting a classic Paris-Brest or putting your own spin on it, each version is bound to impress. Remember, it’s all about the joy of experimentation and the delight of sharing with loved ones. And if you’re up for more baking adventures, try linking this masterpiece with a classic Tarte Tatin or a decadent Chocolate Éclair to wow your guests.

FAQ’s About Delight of Paris-Brest

Conclusion

Creating the Delight of Paris-Brest in your own kitchen is more than just a baking endeavor—it’s an invitation to savor tradition and make lasting memories. Whether you’re gathering friends for an afternoon coffee or delighting family with a surprise dessert, this classic French pastry becomes the centerpiece of joy and connection.

I encourage you to embrace the process and relish every step. From the aromatic choux pastry to the lush praline cream, each moment spent crafting this treat is a testament to your love for those you share it with. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a beloved favorite that everyone requests time and again!

If you haven’t already, I urge you to try this recipe and experience the magic firsthand. For more delightful recipes and kitchen inspiration, follow me on Facebook and Pinterest. Let’s continue this delicious journey together!

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