•INGREDIENTS:
For the Lemon Cream:
1 lemon (zest only)
2 cups (1/2 liter) milk
2 large eggs
1/2 cup (120 grams) sugar
2 teaspoons (10 grams) vanilla sugar
1/3 cup (50 grams) cornstarch
For the Choux Pastry:
1/2 cup (120 ml) water
1/2 cup (120 ml) milk
6 tablespoons (80 grams) butter
1 pinch of salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 cup (120 grams) all-purpose flour
3-4 large eggs (depending on size)
For the Mascarpone Filling:
1 cup (250 grams) mascarpone cheese
Directions:
Prepare the Lemon Cream:
Heat 2 cups of milk with the zest of 1 lemon until warm, but do not boil. Let it cool to room temperature.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup sugar, and 2 teaspoons vanilla sugar until well combined.
Add 1/3 cup cornstarch to the egg mixture and mix until smooth.
Slowly add the cooled milk mixture to the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
Cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool.
Prepare the Choux Pastry:
In a saucepan, combine 1/2 cup water, 1/2 cup milk, 6 tablespoons butter, a pinch of salt, and 1 teaspoon sugar. Heat until the butter has completely melted.
Add 1 cup flour to the saucepan and cook over medium heat for 2 minutes, stirring constantly until the dough pulls away from the sides of the pan and forms a smooth ball.
Let the dough cool for 5 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the dough is smooth and has a consistency that slowly pulls away from the spoon.
Bake the Choux Pastry:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
Using a piping bag or a spoon, place small mounds of dough onto a greased baking sheet.
Brush the tops with a beaten egg for a shiny finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up.
Prepare the Mascarpone Filling:
In a bowl, beat 1 cup of mascarpone cheese until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Cream Puffs:
Once the choux pastry puffs have cooled, cut them in half and fill them with a spoonful of lemon cream and a dollop of mascarpone.
Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions:
Dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Serve with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
Garnish with lemon zest or a sprig of mint for added elegance.
