Why Is It Called Paris-Brest?

By Anna Duncan

Have you ever wondered why a French pastry is called Paris-Brest? This delectable dessert was created in 1910 by a pastry chef named Louis Durand. It was named after the famous bicycle race that took place between the cities of Paris and Brest in Brittany.

The Origin

The Paris-Brest bicycle race was started in 1891 to promote long-distance cycling. The race covers a distance of 1,200 kilometers, and it takes riders through the beautiful countryside of France. The race has since become one of the most prestigious long-distance bike races in the world.

The Inspiration

In 1910, Louis Durand, who was working at a patisserie in Maisons-Laffitte, was inspired by the Paris-Brest-Paris bicycle race. He decided to create a pastry that would be symbolic of this famous French event. His creation was a circular choux pastry that resembled a bicycle wheel and was filled with praline cream.

The Significance

The circular shape of the pastry represents a bicycle wheel while the praline cream filling represents energy, which is essential for long-distance cycling. The pastry quickly became popular among cyclists who were participating in the Paris-Brest-Paris race as it provided them with much-needed sustenance during their long journey.

The Recipe

If you want to make your own Paris-Brest pastry at home, here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup toasted hazelnuts, chopped finely
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine water, butter, and salt. Cook over medium heat until the butter melts and the mixture comes to a boil.
  3. Add flour all at once and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, stirring well after each addition. Stir in hazelnuts.
  5. Spoon dough into a piping bag fitted with a large round tip.

    Pipe dough into two circles on parchment-lined baking sheets.

  6. Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C). Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely on wire racks.
  7. In a large bowl, beat heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Spoon whipped cream into one of the pastry shells and place the other pastry shell on top.

The Verdict

The Paris-Brest pastry is not only delicious but also has an interesting backstory that pays homage to one of France’s most famous bicycle races. The circular shape of the pastry makes it visually appealing while the praline cream filling adds texture and flavor. Whether you’re a cyclist or not, this classic French dessert is definitely worth trying!

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