These Chocolate-Covered Banana Pudding Stuffed Puffs are the ultimate indulgent treat. Light and airy choux pastry puffs are baked to perfection, then filled with a creamy, homemade banana pudding. To finish, they are coated in a smooth layer of semi-sweet chocolate, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors in every bite. Ideal for parties, gatherings, or any occasion when you want to impress with a special dessert, these puffs are fun to make and even more fun to eat.
Chocolate-Covered Banana Pudding Stuffed Puffs offer a decadent combination of light pastry, creamy filling, and rich chocolate coating. This treat features airy choux pastry shells filled with a homemade banana pudding and dipped in smooth, semi-sweet chocolate. Ideal for special occasions, these puffs make a striking presentation and deliver a satisfying mix of textures and flavors.
INGREDIENTS
- Water: 1 cup, for choux pastry
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup, for choux pastry
- All-purpose flour: 1 cup, to form choux dough
- Salt: 1/4 tsp, for flavor balance
- Eggs: 4 large, to create choux pastry structure
- Milk: 2 cups, for banana pudding
- Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup, for pudding sweetness
- Cornstarch: 1/3 cup, to thicken pudding
- Salt (for pudding): 1/4 tsp, for balance
- Egg yolks: 2 large, for pudding richness
- Butter: 2 tbsp, for a smooth pudding finish
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp, for flavor
- Ripe banana: 1, mashed for natural sweetness
- Semi-sweet chocolate: 8 oz, for coating
- Coconut oil (optional): 1 tbsp, for a smoother coating
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1 (Make the Puffs):
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine water and butter. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and add flour and salt, stirring until the mixture forms a ball. Allow to cool slightly, then beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Step 2 (Bake the Puffs):
- Using a piping bag or spoon, drop tablespoon-sized mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. Allow to cool completely.
- Step 3 (Make the Banana Pudding):
- In a saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened. In a small bowl, whisk egg yolks, then gradually add a small amount of the hot pudding mixture to temper. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in butter, vanilla extract, and mashed banana. Let cool.
- Step 4 (Fill the Puffs):
- Once the puffs are cool, cut a small hole in the bottom and use a piping bag to fill each puff with banana pudding.
- Step 5 (Make the Chocolate Coating):
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate and coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Step 6 (Coat the Puffs):
- Dip each filled puff into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Place on a wire rack or parchment paper to set.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve puffs chilled or at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Helpful Notes
- To prevent sogginess, fill the puffs just before serving.
- For added crunch, sprinkle crushed nuts on top of the chocolate coating.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Use high-quality chocolate for a smoother coating and richer flavor.
Mastering Choux Pastry for Perfect Puffs
Choux pastry requires careful attention to heat and egg incorporation for light, airy puffs. Proper cooling before filling ensures crisp exteriors.
FAQs
Can I use instant pudding mix instead?
Yes, but homemade banana pudding provides a superior flavor and texture.
Do I have to use coconut oil?
No, but it helps create a smoother chocolate coating.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I make the puffs ahead of time?
Yes, but fill them just before serving to prevent sogginess.
Summary
The Chocolate-Covered Banana Pudding Stuffed Puffs are a unique dessert offering a perfect mix of textures and flavors. Crisp choux pastry shells are filled with a creamy banana pudding, made with milk, sugar, eggs, and ripe bananas for a smooth and rich filling. Each puff is dipped in melted semi-sweet chocolate for an elegant finish, adding a touch of indulgence. This treat is ideal for special occasions or whenever you need a showstopping dessert to delight family and friends. The combination of the crispy exterior, creamy banana center, and chocolate coating ensures every bite is a hit.