How to Make Eclairs, Cream Puffs & More | Bake It Up A Notch with Erin McDowell

Get ready to #bakeitupanotch as Erin dives deep into pâte à choux, the incredibly versatile pastry dough that's used to make everything from cream puffs to éclairs to crullers and more. In this #bakingtutorial. she'll walk you through the equipment, ingredients and techniques for making beautiful choux pastries and tell you how to avoid common mistakes. Happy baking!
READ Erin's article, "How to Master Pâte à Choux (For Éclairs, Gougères & Cute Little Cream Puffs)" ►► f52.co/3qjzkez
Also featured in this video
KitchenAid Artisan Series Tilt Head Stand Mixer, 5QT: f52.co/37fkTnL
Five Two Essential Kitchen Knives: f52.co/3veEWKQ
GIR Silicone Spatulas: f52.co/3uNs9jD
VIDEO CHAPTERS:
00:00:00 Intro
00:01:52 Your Handy Toolkit
00:06:39 Ingredients, Assemble!
00:11:04 What Choux Gotta Do
00:21:28 Piping Like a Pro
00:31:13 Crispy-Chewy Crullers
00:34:08 Let's Get Baking
00:43:48 It's Frying Time
00:48:00 The Finishing Touches
00:51:45 Mistakes Happen
GET THE RECIPES:
Pâte à Choux: f52.co/2OwJdYq
Choux au Craquelin (Crisp, Cookie-Covered Cream Puffs): f52.co/2OB5RyZ
Chouquettes: f52.co/3qgXfLM
Berry-Glazed Cream Puffs: f52.co/3qgaKLG
Pistachio Cream Puffs: f52.co/2ZdZJyq
Crullers: f52.co/3pb5nMx
Black & White Éclairs: f52.co/3755EKr
Strawberries & Cream Éclairs: f52.co/2ZdkE4E
Yossy Arefi's Meyer Lemon Eclairs: f52.co/3b5F2KS
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[@aryanahainsworth624]

Hey Food52? Literally never let this woman go. Keep her happy til she's ready to retire. Her videos are relaxing and also so informative and fun, I could watch forever. Thank you Erin

[@mislamahmischu1096]

💐👍🥰🥰🥰

[@zunairajutt3461]

me too

[@Amelia.A.T.]

1000x yes! 😁

[@maranda5829]

Ditto ditto

[@vegaspassos]

She's Awesome! Just love her and all her videos!

[@barbararey-constantin5679]

She doesn't need a laugh track. Her enthusiasm and gift for teaching how to bake confirms my long held idea that bakers are happy and generous people. Thank choux very much. :)

[@jackiehiebert7064]

Good grief. Every video, I think, Erin is just the best teacher and communicator, and then she does another stellar video. Thank you for doing this. For the teaching. For the time. And for the inspiration.

[@barbarastadler6699]

"It's science with a side of magic!" and passion and knowledge and patience, ALL of which Erin displays to the viewer in every episode, for every choux, pie, cake, or bread; no schtick, no platinum spiked hair or forced sentiment, just a genuine interest in baking and sharing. Thanks, Erin! Food52 you have a winner!

[@lisahinton9682]

@Barbara Stadler I never understood why (whomever it was) chose Guy Fieri to win that show, which launched his tv career. He's obnoxious and fake, isn't very impressive as a chef, and even started pronouncing his surname "more Italian" when he won the show. (I mean, how pretentious can you get?) Erin is the opposite of that guy, and I am so glad to have stumbled across this channel with her.

[@seferinoesparza5641]

Awesome choux.

[@debidewt]

Gosh, I wish she was my best friend. She is just so darn cute.

[@christines1924]

Yes she is!

[@food52]

Did you catch her playing the ukulele and singing “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” for Valentine’s Day? Follow her on Instagram - she’s amazing!

[@PlantNative]

She’s a natural teacher. Excellent.

[@suryadharshan7048]

@@food52 ! SKMM. . Mb

[@ekbetsy]

Me too!

[@jennywhiskey9327]

I’ve avoided trying choux because of how much folks on the Great British Bake-off seem to struggle with it! It just seems so intimidating. But you made it so simple!!! Thank you. You are a true Angel of Baking

[@kateh7855]

I made it recently after being intimidated for a long time. It's just a science and you can definitely do it. The time and competition pressure definitely causes people to mess it up. Plus at home we wouldn't necessarily get as much practice as choux doesn't keep all that well. I wouldn't make it that regularly. But it wasn't actually that hard!

[@iwona4685]

No need to be intimidated... a good recipe and it's rather easy... and delicious!

[@przybyla420]

Having decent instructions and plenty of time goes a long way.

[@anastasiaravi2063]

@@kateh7855 sag RWE

[@JustMe-12345]

Its not that hard actually, we learnt doing it at school and ive done it a few times since. Just make sure to really "burn" off the flour, then it will rise properly

[@dharawijayatilake3419]

Erin, your style just makes me WANT to watch you. It’s not just the recipe, it’s also how you talk to us. Thanks.

[@tarag3330]

This series is so underrated.

[@katiebidne6530]

I really love how approachable Erin makes all of these recipes and processes! Especially pointing out where certain things are critical but others are based on your choice.

[@theresan-c6770]

Free Master class! Erin is such a good teacher and so inspiring! Love her

[@slayshay_t467]

Yesss!! 🙌 literally my favorite show on KZbin Plz we need more "bake it up a notch" every week, if not every day . thank you

[@user-yo6vs5ol5b]

There are no words to describe the depth of my appreciation for these recipes. Erin, your personality and love beams through. Yours is a perfect combination for these videos. Don't worry about laugh tracks etc. Your personality shines though and there's enough quirkiness for us to throughly enjoy the presentation and take some enjoyment of our own in theses recipes, because of you. 😊❤

[@keownrwk]

Fantastically comprehensive as usual with outstanding production value. Erin is, IMHO, one of the best food educators anywhere. Part of that is her comfort and ease in presenting and teaching. Her production staff also does a very professional execution that makes viewing fun and worthwhile.

[@cookienibz2578]

Wonderful tutorial! When are we gonna see a video on how to make all the delicious fillings for these BEAUTIES? 🥰

[@alexdeforge4497]

I love that in every episode, Erin emphasizes that there is no magical single correct way to do things. It makes baking feel so much more approachable!

[@Popolar_]

I see Erin, I click. For choux-ure.

[@erin-jeanne-mcdowell]

This made my day. 😁

[@JustMeeDina]

I’ve finally found my favorite teacher! I can watch you teach us how to bake all day long! You’re very entertaining and easy to follow! I’m definitely a fan!

[@creativeideator]

She's just so great. I could watch her teach me to do the easiest thing ever like tomato-pasta - I would still watch her.

[@barbhawkins7865]

Not everyone needs to be funny. You are very informative and knowledgeable. Love your special gifts and don't compare yourself to other people.

[@wahbish]

I didn't think I could watch through an hour-long baking video but with Erin, time just flew by! She is such a joy!

[@lesliedausey]

Thank you, thank you, thank you for how thoroughly you go through everything. I watched most of this video last night when I couldn't sleep and had Easter Sunday's dessert on my mind (three types of eclairs). I decided to make the eclairs today, store them, then fill them Sunday. I got the perfect consistency with a lovely V, piped them all out, baked them to a pretty golden brown, and then took them out to do the 15 minute cool down before the final browning. Panic began to settle in when I saw them falling and becoming sad and deflated. Attempting to not be sad and deflated myself, I put them back in for another 10 minutes. They puffed up and browned more, but deflated again after taking them out. Pushing through my rising anxiety, I sat down with the computer, pulled up this video, and went straight to Mistakes Happen. After watching it, I put them back in for a bit longer, and low-and-behold! I have beautiful, burnished eclairs that stay risen!

[@ZestyOranges1]

here to say that everytime food52 posts a vide featuring Erin i get excited, seeing her cooking makes my day 100%better

[@MsNamebot]

How did the universe know I needed a video on pate a choux. And one starring the GOAT herself ERIN at that. 🙌🏼

[@BevWelch]

Erin is the very best presenter on baking! Better than Martha!!! My question is: is it possible for me to substitute almond or coconut flour, maybe a combination? Also, can I use heavy cream instead of milk? I'm not able to eat grains. Also, the sugar in milk affects me.

[@Camille_Boomer77000]

Chouquettes are the best. Growing up my mom and grandma would take us to the bakery on Sundays. They would get my brother and I a croissant and a bag of chouquettes for all of us to share. Croissant were the breakfast and chouquettes our goûter at 4pm. P.s.: Erin you've been pronouncing the names correctly.

[@Raja-ut3ep]

Usually if the video is over 10mn ,I escape it ,for your videos which are lessons of more than 50mn ,the time pass like a second ,with an incredible enjoyment, lovely you are Erin 🥰thank you🙏

[@emilyneal7888]

Loved this. At the end of every video I’m thinking....nooooo, it can’t be over already! Erin is a great teacher and just a lot of fun.

[@debbiebuttars5598]

Love this woman. I want her for my best friend, too. We would have so much fun. I kinda feel like she already is my friend! I just love Erin's Bake It Up a Notch series. :-) :-) :-)

[@jessicaberger2619]

Thank the heavens for Erin! She’s an angel of cookery and brings the magic.

[@csmstreeter]

When I think of of a magical elf that makes enchanted treats, I think of you. You are like a mystical fairy with special powers that can make food into a magic potion of enjoyment. You are so special Erin! Thank you for your videos and teachings. You are a wonder to the culinary world.

[@k1amc3]

When I first made cream puffs, I didn't understand the extent of expansion. So basically they were big enough to hold a LOT of filling. You could have knocked someone out if you threw it at them

[@lisaanderson135]

Pâté à Choux was the first pastry I learned how to make, back in the days before KZbin. Just me and my beat up cookbook! Thanks to Erin for all these amazing tips! Things I wish I knew back then, actually in more ways than one 🤦‍♀️

[@sharonpack4696]

I'm a simple none baking woman who loves cream puffs who will now make cream puffs, because you have made it easier. Thank you. Finally.

[@helenburton2094]

I would love to see an episode on curds and jams please x

[@calebhealy8017]

I remember when food 52 had like 250 k subs. I'm so proud and happy that all these great creators joined and are making it a big amazing place

[@food52]

Thanks for staying with us!

[@jeaninelot3357]

Amazing tutorial. I could watch all night . Very down to earth and clear teaching style , and not intimidating at all . Thankyou .

[@luiginayerino592]

Love how you instill confidence.

[@carolineejikeme]

I don't get how people go out of their way to click the dislike button. I love watching her. She's realistic and gives us great tips throughout the video. Even if you don't agree with something, it just doesn't warrant a dislike, in my opinion. Anyway, the button exists so......

[@fizzypop1858]

Erin is simply the best teacher! It's so wonderful having her on Food52! And so happy she's on Instagram, as well. Thank you, Erin, for all you share! ❤️

[@jayjaysss]

I'm so grateful for these episodes. Such valuable information I'm getting without going to cooking school! And for free!!

[@ricardoaberriosperez1882]

She's back and with another great tutorial!!

[@TashJansson]

yet another friday night saved by Erin!

[@isaiahcardenas520]

The intro alone made me subscribe immediately!

[@maylien]

As usual, just wonderful!

[@forrwhyyy1892]

7:53 “if you’re out of milk or only have enough for one more cup of coffee…” lmao you get it!! Thank you for always mentioning substitutes, you even go as far to give your opinion on how things bake,taste,finish everything I would’ve asked!! I can’t tell you how many times you’ve helped me out and even lifted my spirits back up because I found out I didn’t need milk or butter etc. for something I was so excited to bake but didn’t have the money to buy whatever I was missing or couldn’t go to the store and get at the time. Sending my love and appreciation to you and your team!!

[@tmackie1694]

OMG! A new Erin video. My day just got soooooo much better 😊

[@JPLMC]

I love this series, thank you

[@Laura-iw3xd]

In Poland we pipe crullers a bit different, and we call them "gniazdko", which means a nest

[@gingergirl8797]

Just recently found your videos and wondered where you've been all my baking life? Miss Erin you are fantastic, I finally made a successful pie crust. I am 71 and have struggled with crusts for close to 60 years. With your help I am victorious over pie crust. Thank you so very much.

[@janakoable]

OMG YESSSS!!! Best. Friday. Ever.

[@RobertaPeck]

So here I am again Erin, even though I don't eat or make sugared baked goods, enjoying your masterful teaching ability!

[@lisahinton9682]

@roberta peck You could make sugary baked yummies for your friends, family, neighbors, coworkers. Just a thought! 😋

[@Christina00nline]

You are so charismatic, articulate, and lovely to watch! Thank you for your videos, I learn a lot from you! Also, great job film / editing crew! These videos have the feel of professional/ network baking shows

[@maricarveloso3580]

Thank you Erin! You’re amazing! ❤️

[@Imokanurnot]

I can't wait to try this recipe, thanks for sharing it with us!

[@danayager]

Her voice is soothing. She’s my new fall asleep ASMR. Lol I also love how she makes baking look so easy and fun.💕

[@heikeferdinandt7258]

Love your episodes! ❤️

[@anjarasch8332]

Happy Easter! And thank you very much. Emboldend by your videos I recently made some churros and today I made Eclairs filled with a creme of wild garlic, feta and creme cheese for my easter family dinner. Certainly not yet perfect, but very nice none the less. :-))

[@fernandaaragon2383]

Ay this gave me joy she is so precious

[@baryonicmatter8993]

100% loooved this episode! Baking some nice puffs later today

[@mathildefisher8244]

Love this. Thank you!

[@milliehicks9728]

I commented that I love Erin's videos and I just saw tons of other people who made wonderful comments also! I'm not familiar with measurements unless they are in cups, ounces and pounds etc. so I hope she also will mention the ingredients that way. This is the first time that I watched her.

[@resveratrolv5]

Loveeee how she made everything so clear :)

[@nikilambert4446]

Amazing episode! I always feel so empowered.

[@claudiadiaz6713]

Girl you are so talented and fun to learn from. Thank you

[@googlelocks4131]

I live for Erin's videos she explains it all so perfectly

[@jeanineruby]

Hi Erin, you are my trusted GO TO site for any baking recipe! I've learned so much from your videos. You are sweet and cute. Thank you.

[@kimberleerivera3334]

Thank you Erin! Great tutorial! ❤

[@Fac725]

A master class! 🙏

[@mariarugolo2487]

What a wonderful teacher. You are awesome!

[@erikadowdy686]

I absolutely LOVE videoswith Erin in them Shes awesome

[@maggieossa6414]

Loooooove Erin! She’s a true teacher. Great detailed instructions.

[@elisebrisson]

The way she breaks all of this down makes it so much less scary to try!

[@WL1006]

Gosh this tutorial is so beneficial....thanks Erin

[@paullettetarvirian4881]

I LOVE the way you bake and just LOVE your personality xo

[@marysuehaag1621]

You are such a great instructor!! Thank you!!

[@littleblackcar]

The bit about the film on the bottom of the pot and the dough clumping is SO MUCH more helpful than "knead until tacky".

[@AnshuliPatil]

Erin's the best! What a masterclass this was! ❤️❤️

[@kathypfaff8403]

Watching Erin’s videos have made me feel I can do this! She is amazing.

[@rochellesammy7176]

I LOVE watching Erin!

[@violetmaster5914]

Thanks Erin 😊for making these pastry so easy to make 🙌

[@margiechastain1109]

You’re the best! Love this episode!

[@pavlamoewes5657]

What an amazing Channel. So happy I found it. Thank you for a great explanation ❤

[@lacyworkman6846]

Absolutely love your videos! You are so informative and keep it fun and exciting 😀

[@JonEdwards]

Truly outstanding episode!

[@VideoM4ster]

Thank you for your good tips

[@josephinegaeta9373]

SO SO GOOD AND INFORMATIVE

[@gloriashaeffer9117]

love Erin she makes everything so easy to understand and fun to watch Thank you

[@danielintheantipodes6741]

Thank you for the video!

[@foodtravelcrafts87]

I love you Erin. Love your baking. I learmed alot

[@PastaMakerCordy-qy4uz]

I have learned so much from Erin. Thank you.

[@99morgbot]

Erin makes me less anxious about baking, I love these videos. Can't wait to make some puffs!

[@faredsharudden]

I love Erin! She teaches us how to bake the way i can actually focus on and really listen to her instructions very, very well. I love you Erin!

[@h.2602]

Nailed it! First time they did not look like biscuits. Thank you, Erin. Love you!!!

[@liesbetvandermerwe4920]

Absolutely excellent. You are a great teacher.

[@susanmarino8026]

You are a great teacher. You touch all bases. Thank you so much for the recipes.

[@gencox1107]

It's midnight so I'm just gonna like this now and wake up to a video of pure joy in the morning 😊

[@nilaedlin6249]

Such a great video, makes me feel confident to get started

[@amyjohnson5839]

I enjoy watching your videos. I've learned so much

[@corasantos4872]

Love your channel. Love your recipes. Love the way you present your recipes and teaching. Thank you.

[@annaleepark]

I love Erins presentation!😊

[@krystawhitmore9881]

I love Erin’s videos!! I can’t even eat most of these amazing things because of a gluten allergy but who cares! This woman is a wizard at teaching and is so pleasant to watch!