Save Plateau Cygne Pâtisseries Aériennes presents an elegant display of delicate, airy swan-shaped pastries inspired by timeless French patisserie traditions. These light choux creations filled with smooth vanilla Chantilly cream are perfect for elevating a refined afternoon tea or adding a chic touch to a festive dessert buffet. The graceful shapes and subtle sweetness make them not only a feast for the palate but a stunning centerpiece that invites admiration and delight.
Save Mastering choux pastry might seem daunting, but this recipe breaks down each step clearly, guiding you to achieve golden, puffed bodies and delicate necks. The combination of the rich Chantilly cream and the lightness of the pastries makes this a dessert that feels both indulgent and refreshing. Presented on a platter with a dusting of icing sugar and seasonal garnishes, these petite swans become a guaranteed conversation piece.
Ingredients
- Choux Pastry
- 125 ml water
- 60 g unsalted butter, diced
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- 75 g all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- Vanilla Chantilly Cream
- 250 ml heavy cream (cold)
- 25 g icing sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Garnishes & Assembly
- 2 tbsp icing sugar (for dusting)
- Fresh berries (raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries), optional
- Edible flowers, optional
- Mint leaves, optional
Instructions
- 1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line two baking trays with parchment paper.
- 2. In a saucepan, combine water, butter, salt, and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- 3. Remove from heat and add flour all at once. Stir vigorously until mixture forms a ball and pulls away from sides.
- 4. Return pan to low heat, stirring for 1-2 minutes to dry the dough slightly.
- 5. Transfer dough to a bowl. Beat in eggs one at a time until smooth and glossy.
- 6. Spoon choux pastry into a piping bag fitted with a large plain tip. Pipe 12 small ovals (approx. 6 cm) for swan bodies and 12 small S-shaped necks on the prepared trays.
- 7. Bake the bodies for 25 minutes until golden and firm. Bake the necks for 10-12 minutes. Cool completely.
- 8. For the Chantilly cream, whisk heavy cream, icing sugar, and vanilla to stiff peaks. Transfer to a piping bag with a star tip.
- 9. Slice the top third off each choux body. Cut the tops in half lengthwise to form wings.
- 10. Pipe Chantilly cream onto each choux base. Insert an S-shaped neck and arrange the two wing pieces on either side to resemble a swan.
- 11. Dust with icing sugar. Decorate platter with berries, edible flowers, and mint leaves as desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Precision in baking the choux pastry is crucial to achieving the perfect rise and crispness. Make sure the dough dries sufficiently on the stovetop before piping, and avoid opening the oven door during baking to prevent collapse. Use cold heavy cream for Chantilly to ensure it whips properly to stiff peaks. Assemble the swans just before serving to maintain freshness and crispness.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a decadent twist, drizzle the assembled swans with melted dark chocolate. Fresh fruit garnishes can be varied seasonally to suit preferences, and edible flowers add both color and elegance. This recipe can also be doubled for larger gatherings, maintaining the same proportions for consistency.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these delicate swan pastries as a centerpiece on a dessert buffet or alongside afternoon tea. Pair with sparkling Champagne or a light Moscato to complement the creamy vanilla flavors and add a festive touch to any celebration.
Save This refined French dessert showcases technique and artistry in every bite. The combination of light choux pastry and aromatic Chantilly cream delivers a harmonious balance of textures and flavors, making Plateau Cygne Pâtisseries Aériennes a memorable treat that brings elegance and joy to your table.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of dough is used for the pastries?
These pastries use classic choux pastry, which puffs up in the oven for a light, airy texture.
- → How is the vanilla Chantilly cream prepared?
Whip cold heavy cream with icing sugar and pure vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- → How are the swan shapes created?
The choux dough is piped into body and neck shapes separately, then baked and assembled to resemble swans.
- → Can the platter be prepared in advance?
Yes, components can be made ahead and assembled just before serving to maintain freshness.
- → Are there variations to this platter?
Yes, drizzling melted dark chocolate over the assembled swans adds a rich chocolate twist.
- → What garnishes enhance the presentation?
Fresh berries, edible flowers, and mint leaves provide colorful and fragrant garnishes for the platter.