Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup crème de menthe liqueur
- 1/4 cup vodka
- 1/4 tsp peppermint extract
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
Special equipment needed:
- Double boiler or heatproof bowl and saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Candy thermometer
- Small funnel
- Glass bottles or jars with lids
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a double boiler or heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water, melt the chocolate chips and heavy cream together, stirring occasionally until smooth.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the crème de menthe, vodka, peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
3. Sift in the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, whisking until smooth and no lumps remain.
4. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a small funnel and pour it into glass bottles or jars with lids.
5. Chill the cordial in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until firm.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Temperature:
Simmering water
Serving size:
Makes about 2 cups of cordial, or 8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 200
Total fat: 12g
Saturated fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 70mg
Total carbohydrates: 18g
Dietary fiber: 2g
Sugars: 13g
Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Milk chocolate chips can be used instead of dark chocolate chips for a milder flavor.
- Half-and-half or whole milk can be used instead of heavy cream for a lighter texture.
- Peppermint schnapps or peppermint vodka can be used instead of crème de menthe and vodka.
- Almond extract or orange extract can be used instead of vanilla extract for a different flavor profile.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for a spicy kick.
- Use white chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate chips for a sweeter flavor.
- Add a tablespoon of instant coffee granules for a mocha twist.
- Use rum or brandy instead of vodka for a different type of cordial.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to sift the powdered sugar and cocoa powder to prevent lumps in the cordial.
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure that the mixture reaches the correct temperature for proper texture.
- Use a small funnel to transfer the cordial to the bottles or jars for a neat and easy process.
- Chill the cordial for at least 2 hours to ensure that it sets properly.
Storage instructions:
Store the cordial in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
The cordial can be served chilled or at room temperature. If desired, warm it gently in a double boiler or microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the cordial in small shot glasses or cordial glasses, garnished with a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of cocoa powder.
Garnishes:
Fresh mint sprigs, cocoa powder, whipped cream, chocolate shavings
Pairings:
Serve the cordial with a plate of chocolate truffles or cookies for a decadent dessert.
Suggested side dishes:
None
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cordial is too thick, add a splash of heavy cream or milk to thin it out.
- If the cordial is too thin, add a tablespoon of cocoa powder or powdered sugar to thicken it up.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to use clean and sterilized bottles or jars to prevent contamination. Store the cordial in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.
Food history:
Cordials have been enjoyed for centuries as a sweet and flavorful after-dinner drink. The combination of chocolate and mint has been a popular flavor pairing for many years.
Flavor profiles:
Rich, chocolatey, minty, sweet
Serving suggestions:
Serve the cordial as a dessert drink after a meal or as a special treat for a holiday party.
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Taste: Rich, Sweet, Minty, Chocolatey