eclair
An éclair is a classic French pastry made from choux dough, which is piped into a long, thin shape and baked until crisp and hollow. Once cooled, it is typically filled with pastry cream, custard, or whipped cream and topped with a layer of smooth, glossy chocolate icing. The word comes from the French word for "lightning," likely referring to how quickly these delicious treats are eaten or the way the icing glistens like a flash of light. It is a staple of bakery display cases and is almost exclusively associated with sweet, indulgent snacking rather than formal meals.
In conversation
At a local bakery
I'll take one chocolate éclair, please.
I'll take one chocolate éclair, please.
Would you like that in a box or just a napkin?
Would you like that in a box or just a napkin?
A napkin is fine, I'm going to eat it now!
A napkin is fine, I'm going to eat it now!
Commonly used when ordering at a counter.
Planning a party
Should we get cookies or éclairs for the dessert table?
Should we get cookies or éclairs for the dessert table?
Definitely éclairs, they look much more impressive.
Definitely éclairs, they look much more impressive.
Used when discussing dessert options for guests.
Examples
I bought a fresh éclair at the bakery.
I bought a fresh éclair at the bakery.
The chocolate icing on the éclair was perfectly shiny.
The chocolate icing on the éclair was perfectly shiny.
She mastered the art of piping choux pastry to create the perfect éclair.
She mastered the art of piping choux pastry to create the perfect éclair.
