Cubes with cream and chocolate

Cream and Chocolate Cubes: A Delicious Recipe for Indulgent Moments

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 16 cubes

In a world full of desserts, cream and chocolate cubes are an excellent choice for those who want to treat themselves to something truly special. This recipe combines the fine texture of nut layers, a velvety cream, and a dark chocolate glaze, creating a perfect contrast of flavors and textures. Whether you serve them at a party or want to indulge alone, these cream and chocolate cubes are always a winning choice.

Ingredients

For the base:
- 100g flour
- 150g sugar (reserve 2 tablespoons for the nuts)
- 50g walnut kernels
- 2 eggs
- ½ packet baking powder
- 2 tablespoons water

For the cream:
- 20g cornstarch
- 130g sugar
- 130g soft butter
- 300ml liquid cream

For the glaze:
- 100g dark chocolate
- 50g butter

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the base
Start by preparing the base. Grind the walnut kernels together with the 2 tablespoons of sugar until you achieve a flour-like consistency. This will not only add flavor but also contribute to the fine texture of the base.

In a bowl, combine the egg yolks with the remaining sugar (148g) and the 2 tablespoons of water. Use a mixer to beat the mixture until it becomes a smooth and frothy cream. It’s important not to skip this step, as the incorporated air will make the base fluffier.

2. Beating the egg whites
In another bowl, beat the egg whites until foamy. This will add a slight aeration to the mixture. Gradually add the foamy egg whites to the yolk mixture, gently folding with a wooden spoon to avoid losing the air from the egg whites.

3. Incorporating the dry ingredients
Sift the flour together with the baking powder. Add the ground nuts and gently mix until everything is combined. Pour the mixture into a square baking pan (23x23x4 cm) lined with parchment paper.

4. Baking the base
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the base for 25-30 minutes or until it passes the toothpick test. Let it cool completely before adding the cream.

5. Preparing the cream
In a saucepan, combine the liquid cream with the cornstarch. Place the saucepan over moderate heat and cook the mixture, stirring continuously, until it starts to thicken. Once it reaches the desired consistency, let it cool.

Meanwhile, use a mixer to beat the soft butter until creamy. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix, then add the cornstarch cream, mixing until well combined.

6. Assembling the dessert
Once the base has cooled, spread the cream evenly over it. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until the cream starts to set.

7. Preparing the glaze
Melt the dark chocolate together with the butter in a bowl, using the microwave on low power. Stir well to avoid burning the chocolate. Once melted, pour the glaze over the cream in the pan, ensuring you cover the entire surface evenly.

8. Cutting and serving
Once the glaze has set, cut the dessert into perfect cubes. Use a knife that you have soaked in cold water to achieve clean cuts. Arrange the cubes on plates or in muffin forms for an elegant presentation.

Practical tips

- Choosing nuts: If you want to experiment, you can replace walnuts with almonds or pistachios, which will add different and interesting flavors.
- Chocolate: Use high-quality chocolate for the glaze, as it will make a significant difference in the final taste of the dessert.
- Dairy-free version: For a vegan version, you can use plant-based butter and cream.

Nutritional benefits

This dessert, while indulgent, contains ingredients that offer nutritional benefits. Nuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, while dark chocolate contains flavonoids that may support heart health. However, it’s important to consume desserts in moderation to maintain a healthy balance in your diet.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I replace the liquid cream with something else? Yes, you can use a plant-based alternative for the liquid cream, but check the packaging instructions for best results.
- How can I make the cubes less sweet? Reduce the amount of sugar in the cream or use chocolate with a higher cocoa content.
- What drinks pair well with these cubes? These cubes pair wonderfully with black coffee or citrus tea, which will balance the sweetness of the dessert.

Conclusion

Cream and chocolate cubes are a true delicacy that combines textures, flavors, and colors to create an unforgettable culinary experience. With a bit of patience and attention to detail, you will achieve a dessert that will impress even the most refined tastes. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients and add a personal touch to your recipe! Enjoy!

 Ingredients: Dough: 100g flour, 150g sugar, 50g walnut kernels, 2 eggs, half a packet of baking powder, 2 tablespoons of water; Cream: 20g starch, 130g sugar, 130g soft butter, 300ml liquid cream; Glaze: 100g dark chocolate, 50g butter;