Hazelnut Praline Profiteroles

Short description
Hazelnut Praline Profiteroles are delicate choux pastry puffs filled with a luscious hazelnut cream and topped with a glossy chocolate glaze and crunchy praline pieces. This elegant dessert brings together crisp pastry, creamy filling, and nutty sweetness in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Profiteroles are classic French pastries that are surprisingly approachable. The addition of hazelnut praline elevates the flavor and texture, making them irresistible. They’re light, airy, and perfect for impressing guests at any celebration.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• water
• unsalted butter
• all-purpose flour
• eggs
• hazelnut praline paste or ground toasted hazelnuts
• heavy cream
• powdered sugar
• dark chocolate
• chopped hazelnuts (for garnish)

directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a saucepan, bring water and butter to a boil. Stir in flour until a ball forms. Cool slightly.
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating until smooth.
4. Pipe small mounds onto a baking tray. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and puffed. Cool completely.
5. Whip cream with powdered sugar and fold in hazelnut praline. Fill cooled puffs with this mixture using a piping bag.
6. Melt dark chocolate and drizzle or dip tops of profiteroles. Sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts.
7. Chill until set and serve.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 15–20 profiteroles
• Preparation time: 30 minutes
• Baking time: 25 minutes
• Cooling/assembly time: 30 minutes
• Total time: About 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

• Coffee-hazelnut cream: Add a splash of espresso to the cream for mocha flavor.
• Salted caramel topping: Swap chocolate glaze with a rich salted caramel.
• Nut-free version: Use vanilla or chocolate filling without nuts.
• Ice cream filling: Fill with vanilla or hazelnut ice cream for a frozen treat.

storage/reheating

Store filled profiteroles in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Unfilled puffs can be frozen for 1 month in airtight containers. Reheat unfilled puffs in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes to crisp them up. Filled profiteroles should be served chilled.

FAQs

Can I make the choux pastry ahead of time?

Yes, bake and store unfilled shells in an airtight container, or freeze for later use.

How do I prevent flat or soggy profiteroles?

Ensure the dough is cooked thoroughly before adding eggs, and don’t open the oven during baking.

Can I use Nutella instead of hazelnut praline?

Yes, Nutella can be folded into the whipped cream for an easy alternative.

What piping tip should I use?

A round piping tip works best for even choux puffs.

How long should I bake them?

Bake until golden and firm—about 20–25 minutes. Avoid underbaking, which can cause collapse.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, though results may vary.

What kind of chocolate is best for topping?

Dark or semi-sweet chocolate melts well and balances the sweet filling.

Should I refrigerate the puffs before serving?

Yes, chilling helps set the filling and enhances flavor.

How do I fill the profiteroles?

Use a piping bag fitted with a small nozzle to inject the filling from the side or base.

Can I use whipped cream alone?

Yes, but adding praline or Nutella gives deeper flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Hazelnut Praline Profiteroles are an exquisite dessert that offers the perfect combination of texture, flavor, and elegance. Whether for a dinner party or a romantic dessert, these treats are bound to leave a lasting impression.

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