Decadent Limoncello Ricotta & Almond Éclairs
Introduction
Decadent Limoncello Ricotta & Almond Éclairs are a delightful twist on a classic French pastry. These airy éclairs are filled with a creamy, zesty ricotta filling and topped with a sweet glaze and toasted almonds. With their refreshing lemon flavor, they make the perfect treat for any occasion.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Decadent Limoncello Ricotta & Almond Éclairs is a fun way to impress your family and friends. They are simple to prepare, yet they look and taste like a gourmet dessert. The combination of creamy ricotta and zesty limoncello creates a flavor that is both bold and refreshing. Plus, they are a great dessert for celebrations or a special afternoon snack.
How to Make Decadent Limoncello Ricotta & Almond Éclairs
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese (drained if watery)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons limoncello liqueur
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup heavy cream, whipped to soft peaks
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 2-3 tablespoons limoncello (or lemon juice for a non-alcoholic option)
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- Extra lemon zest (for garnish)
- A dusting of powdered sugar (for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. You can mark 4-inch lines for piping if you want.
- In a medium saucepan, combine water, milk, butter, sugar, and salt over medium heat. Bring it to a boil while stirring until the butter melts.
- Remove from heat and add the flour all at once. Stir until a smooth dough forms.
- Return the saucepan to low heat and cook, stirring for 1-2 minutes to dry out the dough.
- Let it cool for 5 minutes, then add the eggs one at a time. Beat well after each addition until fully incorporated.
- Transfer the dough to a piping bag with a 1/2-inch tip and pipe 4-inch logs onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes until they are golden and puffed.
- For the filling, mix ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, limoncello, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Gently fold in the whipped cream.
- Once the éclairs are cool, fill them with the ricotta mixture.
- For the glaze, mix the powdered sugar with limoncello or lemon juice. Glaze the éclairs and top with sliced almonds.
- Garnish with extra lemon zest and a light dusting of powdered sugar if you like.
How to Serve Decadent Limoncello Ricotta & Almond Éclairs
Serve these delightful éclairs on a nice plate. They can be enjoyed as a dessert after a meal or as a sweet treat during a coffee break. Pair them with a cup of espresso or tea to enhance the experience.
How to Store Decadent Limoncello Ricotta & Almond Éclairs
Store any leftover éclairs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best eaten fresh, but they can last for 2-3 days in the fridge.
Tips to Make Decadent Limoncello Ricotta & Almond Éclairs
- Make sure to properly drain the ricotta cheese if it is watery. This will help keep the filling smooth and not too runny.
- For a more pronounced lemon flavor, add more lemon zest to the filling or glaze.
- If you want to make the éclairs ahead of time, you can prepare the shells and filling separately. Fill them just before serving.
Variation
You can try using different flavored liqueurs, such as orange or elderflower, for the filling. Alternatively, for a non-alcoholic option, replace limoncello with lemon juice or lemon syrup.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling?
A: Yes, you can use mascarpone or cream cheese if you prefer. Just keep in mind the taste and texture may change slightly.
Q: How do I know when the éclairs are done baking?
A: They should be golden brown, puffed up, and firm to the touch. They should not feel soft or wet in the middle.
Q: Can I freeze these éclairs?
A: Yes, you can freeze the baked shells. However, it’s best to fill them just before serving to keep them fresh and prevent them from getting soggy.
