Just imagine that you’ve just finished dinner and there’s a knock at the door…standing before you are 3 unexpected guests who are dropping by for coffee….what do you do?
Well, the first thing to do is let the people in for goodness sake, exchange all of the appropriate greetings, hugs and kisses then quickly wipe that look of dread off your face…it’s gonna be OK…really.
First, get the coffee going and pull out your previously made éclair shells…you know the ones I mean…the ones I’ve been suggesting that you to try making and keeping on hand just for these types of occasions. The éclair shells freeze beautifully simply stored in a Ziploc freezer bag. They make a lovely little dessert and will have your guests thinking that you’ve been in the kitchen baking all day…but we know the secret, and I for one am not telling!
This great little dessert comes together quickly and you can either fill them with the vanilla bean semifreddo as I did here or simply use an ice cream of your choice or lightly sweetened whipped cream. Once filled, you can either dust the filled shells with powdered sugar or drizzle them with chocolate….it’s really that easy.
For these I used the alternate recipe for cream puffs which I have provided for you here. I actually prefer using this one instead of the richer version because the leaner batter rises better and gives you a prettier puff with a sturdier structure that is better for the firm ice cream. Make them ahead of time, keep them on hand and look like a superstar when you hear that knock…
Profiteroles With Vanilla Bean Semifreddo
1 recipe vanilla bean semifreddo or ice cream of your choice
1 recipe quick ganache or chocolate sauce of your choice
Make the éclair shells and pack them in a Ziploc freezer back and freeze.
Prepare your semifreddo or use your favorite ice cream, and also have your chocolate ganache ready if you plan to use this also. This is another item that you can make ahead of time and freeze. If you have premade your shells, remove them from the freezer and thaw. Using a small, sharp knife cut each éclair shell in half. Using a small size scoop, place some ice cream on the base of each shell then replace the top.
Arrange them on your plate and drizzle on some of your favorite chocolate sauce. Quick, easy and delicious!
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