Lemon Cream Puffs

These Lemon Cream Puffs with Mascarpone Filling are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. The puffs are light and airy with a creamy, tangy filling that combines the zest of lemon and the richness of mascarpone cheese. They are sure to impress your family and friends with their delicate texture and refreshing flavor.
 Time

• Total Time: 55-60 minutes
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes

Ingredients
For the Lemon Cream:

• Skin of 1 lemon (zest only)
• 1/2 liter (18 oz) milk
• 2 eggs
• 120 grams (4.2 oz) sugar
• 10 grams (1 teaspoon) vanilla sugar
• 50 grams (1.7 oz) cornstarch

The Choux Pastry:

• 100 ml (1/2 glass) water
• 100 ml (1/2 glass) milk
• 80 grams (6 tablespoons) butter
• 1 pinch of salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 120 grams (4.2 oz) flour
• 3-4 eggs (depending on size)

The Mascarpone Filling:

• 250 grams (8.8 oz) mascarpone

Directions
For Lemon Cream:

1. Heat Milk and Lemon Zest:
   • Heat 1/2 liter of milk with the zest of 1 lemon until warm, but do not boil.
   • Let it cool to room temperature to infuse the lemon flavor into the milk.
2. Mix Eggs and Sugars:
   • In a bowl, whisk together 2 eggs, 120 grams of sugar, and 10 grams of vanilla sugar until well combined.
3. Add Cornstarch:
   • Add 50 grams of cornstarch to the egg mixture and mix until smooth.
4. Cook the Cream:
   • 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.
   • Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool.

Prepare the Choux Pastry:

1. Heat Liquid Ingredients:
   • In a saucepan, combine 100 ml water, 100 ml milk, 80 grams butter, a pinch of salt, and 1 teaspoon sugar.
   • Heat until the butter has completely melted.
2. Add Flour:
   • Add 120 grams of 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.
3. Cool and Add Eggs:
   • 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. Depending on the size of the eggs, you may need 3-4 eggs.

Bake the Choux Pastry:

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
2. Shape and Bake:
   • 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.

The Mascarpone Filling:

1. Mix Mascarpone:
   • In a bowl, beat 250 grams of mascarpone until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Cream Puffs:

1. Fill the 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.
2. Serve:
   • Serve the lemon cream puffs immediately or store them 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.

Cooking Tips

• Ensure the milk is warm, not hot, to prevent curdling when mixing with eggs.
• Adjust the number of eggs in the choux pastry to achieve the right dough consistency.
• Let the cream and puffs cool completely before assembling to ensure they hold their shape.

Benefits

• Lemon: Provides a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants.
• Mascarpone: Adds a creamy texture and is a good source of calcium.
• Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients.