Step 1

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Step 2

Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 3

In a large saucepan, bring the water, salt and butter to a boil.

Step 4

Add the flour all at once and stir to combine until a ball forms.

Step 5

Remove from heat and let stand 8 minutes.

Step 6

Add vanilla and eggs one at a time until each is combined and the dough is smooth and shiny.

Step 7

Put dough into a self seal bag and cut the corner off.

Step 8

"Pipe" dough onto prepared sheets approx. 1"x 4".

Step 9

Bake for approx. 30 minutes and immediately transfer to wire rack and cool completely.

Step 10

Filling

Step 11

In an electric mixer with the wire attachment, beat whipping cream until peaks form. Add sugar and vanilla to combine.

Step 12

In a separate bowl prepare pudding according to the box directions.

Step 13

Fold into the whip cream mixture.

Step 14

Place in refrigerator to chill for 15 minutes.

Step 15

Prepare

Step 16

Cut eclairs open with a serrated knife.

Step 17

Spoon cream mixture onto the bottom and place the top on.

Step 18

Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave for approximately 1 minute, stir until creamy and then spread on each eclair.

Step 19

Chill until ready to serve.