Napolitans II
Delicious Wafers with Chocolate Cream
Who doesn't love a sweet, crunchy, and easy-to-make snack? Wafers are a classic dessert, enjoyed by both children and adults. This chocolate cream wafer recipe is not only simple but also a true delight! I will guide you step by step, providing useful information and tips to achieve the best results.
Before we start, let’s get a little familiar with the history of this dessert. Wafers were created to provide a pleasant contrast between the crispy texture of the layers and the smooth cream, often chocolate, that perfectly complements them. These delicacies are ideal for serving at special occasions or simply to satisfy a sweet craving.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 12 servings
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 6 eggs, separated
- 200 g sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 200 g melted butter
- 50 g melted lard
- 200 g flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon citric acid
For the cream:
- 250 g milk chocolate
- 250 ml liquid cream
Step 1: Preparing the dough
1. Start by preheating the special wafer maker so that it’s ready when you want to bake the layers.
2. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until foamy. Use an electric mixer to achieve a firm foam that will give structure to your wafer layers.
3. In another bowl, beat the egg yolks with the sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes light in color and creamy. It’s important for the sugar to dissolve completely, and for the mixture to become airy.
4. Gradually incorporate the melted butter and lard, pouring a little at a time and mixing continuously. This step is essential to prevent the fats from cooling too quickly.
5. Sift the flour together with the baking soda and citric acid, then gradually add them to the yolk mixture, mixing until homogeneous.
6. Finally, gently fold in the beaten egg whites using a spatula to preserve the air in the mixture. This will make the layers light and fluffy.
Step 2: Baking the wafer layers
1. Use a small amount of dough to fill the wafer maker. Do not overfill, as the dough will rise during baking.
2. Bake the layers for about 3-5 minutes or until they become golden and crispy. Check them regularly to avoid burning.
3. Remove the layers from the machine and let them cool completely on a cooling rack. It’s important for the layers to be completely cool before adding the cream to prevent it from melting.
Step 3: Preparing the chocolate cream
1. To make the cream, melt the chocolate in a double boiler. Ensure that the water in the pot does not touch the bottom of the bowl with the chocolate to avoid burning. Stir occasionally to achieve a uniform consistency.
2. Allow the melted chocolate to cool for 20 minutes. It’s essential for the chocolate not to be hot when you add it to the cream to achieve a homogeneous cream.
3. Whip the liquid cream until it becomes firm, being careful not to turn it into butter. It’s better to stop before the cream is over-whipped to achieve a fine texture.
4. Gently incorporate the cooled melted chocolate into the whipped cream, mixing lightly with a spatula to preserve the air in the cream. You will obtain a delicious and velvety cream.
Step 4: Assembling the wafers
1. Take a wafer layer and spread a generous layer of chocolate cream evenly on it. You can use a spatula or a knife to spread the cream evenly.
2. Stack 4-6 layers, spreading cream on each layer. Ensure that the cream layer is even on each layer to avoid deformation.
3. After you have finished assembling the wafers, let them sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour, so the cream sets and the flavors meld.
Serving suggestions and combinations
These wafers are delicious served plain, but you can also add a personal touch. You can sprinkle cocoa powder or grated chocolate on top for an elegant look. They also pair perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea, as well as a glass of cold milk, which will complement the sweet taste of the cream.
Frequently asked questions
1. What type of chocolate can I use for the cream?
You can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate, depending on your preferences. If you choose dark chocolate, you might want to add a little extra sugar to the cream, as it is less sweet.
2. Can I use a vegan alternative for butter?
Yes, you can use vegan margarine or coconut oil as an alternative. Make sure the ingredients you choose are of good quality to achieve a similar texture.
3. How can I store the wafers?
The wafers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. However, it is recommended to consume them as soon as possible, as the layers may become soft.
Nutritional benefits
These wafers contain protein from eggs, which are essential for nutrition, as well as healthy fats from butter and lard. Chocolate brings antioxidants, of course in moderation, while cream provides a source of calcium. However, remember to consume in moderation, considering the caloric intake.
In conclusion, wafers with chocolate cream are a quick and easy dessert to prepare, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a moment of indulgence. Experiment with different flavors and ingredients, and don’t forget to enjoy every bite!
Ingredients: For the dough: 6 eggs, separated, 200 g sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla essence, 200 g melted butter, 50 g melted lard, 200 g flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon citric acid. For the cream: 250 g milk chocolate, 250 ml liquid cream.
Tags: wafer