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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Choux pastry requires careful attention to heat and egg incorporation for light, airy puffs. Proper cooling before filling ensures crisp exteriors.
FAQsCan 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.