Description
A twist on the classic tiramisu, these airy choux pastries are filled with a mascarpone cream, soaked in coffee and Kahlua, and dusted with cocoa powder for a decadent treat.
Ingredients
For the choux pastry:
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
For the filling:
- 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
For soaking:
- 1/4 cup brewed coffee
- 2 tbsp Kahlua
For dusting:
- Cocoa powder
Optional for craquelin topping:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions
For the Choux Pastry:
- Preheat the oven: Set to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the dough: In a medium saucepan, bring water and butter to a boil. Once boiling, remove from heat and stir in the flour until the dough forms a smooth ball.
- Add the eggs: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The dough should be smooth and slightly shiny.
- Pipe the dough: Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe small mounds onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1.5 inches in diameter. If using craquelin, sprinkle it on top.
- Bake the choux: Bake for 15-20 minutes or until puffed and golden brown. Let them cool completely.
For the Filling: 6. Prepare the mascarpone cream: In a mixing bowl, beat together mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and heavy cream until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
For the Soaking: 7. Make the coffee mixture: In a shallow dish, combine brewed coffee and Kahlua.
To Assemble: 8. Prepare the choux: Once the choux are cool, slice them in half horizontally. 9. Soak and fill: Dip the bottom half of each choux into the coffee-Kahlua mixture. Fill with the mascarpone cream mixture and top with the other half of the choux. 10. Finish with cocoa powder: Dust the filled choux with cocoa powder before serving.
Notes
- The craquelin topping adds a sweet crunch to the choux, but it’s optional if you prefer a simpler version.
- To make the craquelin topping: Mix brown sugar, softened butter, and flour until combined. Roll into a thin sheet, cut into small circles, and place on top of the choux before baking.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes