Desserts > Italian Desserts > Pasticcerias > Chocolate Pasticcerias

Chocolate Crema Pasticciera Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 3 egg yolks
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 tsp vanilla extract

Special Equipment Needed:
- Medium-sized saucepan
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Piping bag (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the milk and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the milk is hot but not boiling.

2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and egg yolks until smooth.

3. Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling.

4. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.

5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the chocolate chips and vanilla extract until the chocolate has melted and the mixture is smooth.

6. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer to remove any lumps.

7. Pour the crema pasticciera into a bowl or individual serving dishes. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface of the crema to prevent a skin from forming.

8. Chill the crema pasticciera in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until set.

9. If desired, transfer the chilled crema pasticciera to a piping bag and pipe into individual serving dishes.


Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
Makes about 2 cups of crema pasticciera, or 4-6 servings.

Nutritional information:
Calories: 200
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 110mg
Sodium: 70mg
Carbohydrates: 29g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 22g
Protein: 5g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole milk can be substituted with low-fat or non-dairy milk alternatives.
- Granulated sugar can be substituted with honey, maple syrup, or other sweeteners.
- Dark chocolate chips can be substituted with milk or white chocolate chips, or chopped chocolate.

Variations:
- Add a tablespoon of espresso powder for a mocha flavor.
- Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for a decadent dessert.
- Use the crema pasticciera as a filling for cakes or pastries.

Tips and Tricks:
- Whisk constantly while cooking the crema pasticciera to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth texture.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer to remove any lumps or bits of cooked egg.
- Cover the crema pasticciera with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming while chilling in the refrigerator.

Storage Instructions:
Store the crema pasticciera in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
The crema pasticciera can be served chilled or at room temperature. If reheating, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly, until heated through.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve the crema pasticciera in individual serving dishes or use as a filling for cakes or pastries.

Garnishes:
Top with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries.

Pairings:
Serve with a cup of coffee or espresso for a delicious dessert pairing.

Suggested Side Dishes:
The crema pasticciera can be served as a dessert on its own or with a side of fresh fruit.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the crema pasticciera is too thick, whisk in a little more milk to thin it out.
- If the crema pasticciera is too thin, whisk in a little more cornstarch to thicken it up.

Food Safety Advice:
- Use pasteurized eggs to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
- Store the crema pasticciera in the refrigerator and discard any leftovers after 3 days.

Food History:
Crema pasticciera is a traditional Italian custard used in many desserts, including tarts, cakes, and pastries.

Flavor Profiles:
The chocolate crema pasticciera has a rich, chocolatey flavor with a creamy, smooth texture.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve the chocolate crema pasticciera as a dessert on its own or use as a filling for cakes or pastries.

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Region: Italian

Taste: Rich, Creamy, Chocolaty, Sweet, Indulgent