How to Make Torsade au Chocolat: A Twisted French Delight

 

--- published by foodie Parmod.

Introduction: What Is Torsade au Chocolat?

Torsade au chocolat, or chocolate twist, is a popular French pastry made with puff pastry, pastry cream, and dark chocolate chips or sticks. It’s buttery, flaky, and deliciously indulgent—perfect for breakfast, elevenses, or an afternoon treat.

In this post, you'll learn how to make torsade au chocolat at home using British ingredients and simple steps. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced baker, this elegant treat is surprisingly easy and utterly rewarding.

---

Ingredients (Makes 6–8 Pastries)

For the pastry:

1 sheet of all-butter puff pastry (approx. 320g, ready-rolled)

For the filling:

200ml whole milk

2 egg yolks

40g caster sugar

1 tbsp cornflour

1 tsp vanilla extract

50g dark chocolate chips or sticks

For the finish:

1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)

Icing sugar (optional, for dusting)

---

Equipment Needed

Saucepan

Whisk

Baking tray

Baking parchment

Pastry brush

Sharp knife or pizza cutter

Rolling pin (optional)

---

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Torsade au Chocolat

---

Step 1: Make the Pastry Cream (Crème Pâtissière)

In a saucepan, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornflour until smooth. Slowly add the milk while whisking.

Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly until the mixture thickens to a custard-like consistency (about 5–7 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Transfer to a bowl, cover with cling film (touching the surface to prevent a skin forming), and let it cool completely.

---

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Unroll the puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface. If it’s too thick, gently roll it out to smooth and thin it slightly.

Cut the pastry in half lengthways to create two long rectangles. Spread the cooled pastry cream evenly over one half.

Sprinkle the chocolate chips or lay chocolate sticks on top of the cream. Place the second sheet of pastry on top, like a sandwich.

---

Step 3: Cut and Twist

Cut the filled pastry into strips about 3cm wide. Take each strip, gently twist it several times, and place on a parchment-lined baking tray.

Leave enough space between each twist for them to puff up while baking.

---

Step 4: Chill and Preheat

Chill the prepared twists in the fridge for 15–20 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) / Gas Mark 6.

---

Step 5: Brush and Bake

Brush each torsade with egg wash for a golden finish.

Bake for 18–22 minutes or until puffed and beautifully golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.

---

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the pastries cool on a wire rack. Dust with icing sugar before serving, if desired.

---

Tips for Perfect Torsade au Chocolat

Use all-butter puff pastry for best taste and flakiness.

Cool your pastry cream before assembling to avoid melting the pastry.

Work quickly to keep the pastry cold—chilled pastry rises better.

Twist firmly but gently to maintain shape.

Enjoy fresh on the day of baking for the best texture.

---

Variations

Nutty twist: Add chopped hazelnuts or almonds with the chocolate.

Fruit version: Replace chocolate with raspberry or apricot jam for a fruity filling.

Vegan option: Use plant-based puff pastry and almond milk custard.

---

Storage Advice

Best eaten fresh, but can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for 1–2 days.

Reheat in the oven at 160°C for 5–7 minutes to revive the crispiness.

Freezable before baking: freeze the filled and twisted pastries, then bake from frozen—just add a few extra minutes.

---

How to make torsade au chocolat

French chocolate twist pastry

Easy chocolate twist recipe UK

Homemade torsade au chocolat

Puff pastry chocolate twist recipe

French bakery chocolate pastries

---

Learn how to make torsade au chocolat at home with this easy British-style recipe. Buttery puff pastry filled with custard and chocolate, twisted and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for breakfast or dessert.

--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.

Conclusion

Making torsade au chocolat is simpler than it seems—and the result is a bakery-quality treat you’ll be proud to serve. With just a few ingredients and a bit of twisting, you can enjoy the magic of French patisserie from the comfort of your home.