Brown Butter Chouquettes

Chouquettes are delicate, airy puffs of pastry, traditionally topped with a sprinkling of pearl sugar. Adding the nutty richness of brown butter elevates this classic French treat to a whole new level. Perfect for sharing or indulging alone, these Brown Butter Chouquettes are a delightful addition to any dessert repertoire. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!

Ingredients

• Brown Butter:
  • 145g unsalted butter
• Chouquettes:
  • 125g whole milk
  • 125g water
  • 110g brown butter (prepared earlier)
  • 5g Kosher salt
  • 5g vanilla bean paste
  • 15g sugar
  • 165g all-purpose flour
  • 240g eggs, lightly beaten (plus more if needed)
  • Swedish pearl sugar, for finishing

Directions

Brown Butter:

1. Melt and Brown the Butter:
   • Place 145g of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
   • Cook until melted, then continue cooking until it foams and turns a golden brown color with a nutty aroma, about 3-4 minutes.
   • Transfer the browned butter to a bowl and allow it to cool slightly.

Chouquettes:

1. Prepare the Baking Sheets:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
   • Trace 1 1/4” circles on each sheet and flip the parchment so the drawing is underneath.
2. Make the Choux Pastry:
   • In a pot, combine 125g whole milk, 125g water, 110g brown butter, 5g Kosher salt, 5g vanilla bean paste, and 15g sugar.
   • Heat the mixture until it boils.
   • Remove from heat and quickly stir in 165g all-purpose flour.
   • Return to heat and cook while stirring continuously for about 2 minutes to dry out the mixture.
3. Mix and Add Eggs:
   • Transfer the dough to a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment.
   • Mix on medium speed for 1 minute to cool slightly.
   • Reduce speed to low and slowly add 240g of lightly beaten eggs until fully incorporated. The dough should be smooth and slightly stiff; if too stiff, add another egg.
4. Pipe the Chouquettes:
   • Fill a piping bag fitted with a round tip.
   • Pipe the dough onto the traced circles on the baking sheets, ending each with a flick of the wrist to avoid peaks.
   • Flatten any peaks with a wet fingertip.
   • Sprinkle the chouquettes generously with Swedish pearl sugar.
5. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven at 400°F for 15 minutes.
   • Reduce the temperature to 350°F and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the chouquettes are golden brown.
   • Vent each chouquette with a knife to release steam and cool on a wire rack.

Tips for Perfect Chouquettes

• Consistency of the Dough: The dough should be smooth and pipeable but not too runny. Adjust with an extra egg if necessary.
• Even Piping: Use the traced circles as a guide to ensure evenly sized chouquettes.
• Sugar Topping: Don’t skimp on the Swedish pearl sugar; it adds a delightful crunch and sweetness.

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Kcal: 220 per serving
• Servings: 10

Conclusion

These Brown Butter Chouquettes are the perfect blend of traditional French pastry with a modern twist. The nutty flavor of the brown butter combined with the sweetness of the pearl sugar makes them an irresistible treat. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee, or share them with friends and family for a delightful dessert experience. Happy baking!