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Vanilla Custard Choux Pastry Roulade
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#### Step-by-Step Guide:
**1. Prepare the Choux Pastry:**
* Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
* In a saucepan, combine water, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil, then add flour all at once, stirring vigorously until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
* Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
* Beat in eggs one at a time until the dough is smooth and glossy.
* Spread the dough evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet, forming a rectangle. Bake for 20-25 minutes until puffed and golden. Let cool completely.
**2. Make the Vanilla Custard:**
* Heat the milk with the vanilla bean (split and scraped) or vanilla extract until just boiling. Remove from heat.
* Whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until pale and smooth.
* Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking to temper the eggs.
* Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened.
* Remove from heat and stir in butter. Let cool completely.
**3. Assemble the Roulade:**
* Once the choux pastry is cool, carefully spread the vanilla custard evenly over the surface.
* Roll the pastry gently into a tight roulade using the parchment paper to help.
* Chill the roulade in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set.
**4. Serve and Enjoy:**
* Slice the roulade into rounds to reveal the beautiful spiral of pastry and custard.
* Dust with powdered sugar or garnish with fresh berries for an elegant finish.
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#### Tips for Success:
* Make sure the choux pastry is completely cool before adding custard to prevent melting.
* Use fresh vanilla beans for the best flavor or good-quality vanilla extract as an alternative.
* For a festive touch, drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce before serving.
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### Why You’ll Love This Dessert
The Vanilla Custard Choux Pastry Roulade is a perfect balance of textures — crisp yet tender pastry, silky custard filling, and a stunning presentation. It’s ideal for celebrations, afternoon tea, or whenever you want a show-stopping dessert that’s both traditional and innovative.
Give this recipe a try, and bring a little French patisserie magic to your kitchen!
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Would you like tips on plating or suggestions for pairing drinks with this roulade?