Paris-Brest is one of the most beloved and popular pastries. Made from choux pastry, this dessert is prepared by filling two half-moon shaped shells with cream and decorating it with almond praline or powdered sugar. Paris-Brest was first created in 1891 by a pastry chef for the Paris-Brest-Paris bicycle race.
History of Paris-Brest
The Paris-Brest-Paris bicycle race was first held in 1891. The race covered a 1200-kilometer route from Paris to Brest and back to Paris. Despite the difficulty of the race, it gained great popularity, inspiring pastry chef Louis Durand to create a special pastry for the event.
Durand wanted to design a round pastry that represented the race’s tour. Thus, in 1891, Paris-Brest was created. The pastry is made by filling two half-moon shaped choux pastry shells with cream cheese and decorating it with almond praline.
The Paris-Brest was first presented at the Maison-Lafitte pastry shop in 1891, the year of the race. After its debut, Paris-Brest quickly gained popularity and became a staple in French patisseries.
Making Paris-Brest
Paris-Brest is made from choux pastry. The shells are cut into two half-moon shapes and filled with cream. Different types of cream can be used, such as praline cream, coffee-flavored cream, or vanilla cream. The shells are first baked in the oven and then filled with cream. They are then decorated with almond praline or powdered sugar.
Variations of Paris-Brest
Paris-Brest can be prepared in different ways. For example, the shells can be made from different ingredients, and different types of cream can be used to give the pastry a different flavor. Chocolate, fruit, nuts, or various syrups can also be added to Paris-Brest to create different tastes. Some recipes cut the shells in different shapes for presentation.
Today, Paris-Brest is featured on many pastry shop and café menus worldwide. This delicious pastry, with its unique flavor and history, is loved by many. The story of Paris-Brest sheds light on the rich history of French cuisine, and this pastry holds a special place in the hearts of many in France.