Chocolate Nut Meringue with Chocolate Cream

This elegant dessert combines the lightness of meringue with the richness of chocolate and the crunch of roasted nuts. Perfect for special occasions or as a delightful treat, this chocolate nut meringue with chocolate cream is sure to impress.

Cooking Time

• Preparation: 30 minutes

• Baking: 1.5 hours

• Cooling: 1 hour

• Total: Approximately 3 hours

Ingredients

For the Meringue:

• 3 large egg whites (approximately 120 g)

• 230 g granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• 60 g nuts (e.g., walnuts or hazelnuts), coarsely chopped

• 10 g cornstarch

• 40 g dark chocolate, melted

For the Chocolate Cream:

• 100 g unsalted butter (softened)

• 100 g sweetened condensed milk

• 15 g cocoa powder

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the Meringue:

   • In a heatproof bowl, combine the egg whites and granulated sugar.

   • Place the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, ensuring the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water.

   • Stir continuously until the mixture reaches 46–48°C (115–118°F) and the sugar has dissolved completely.

   • Remove from heat.

   • Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the mixture on high speed until stiff peaks form.

   • Add the lemon juice and continue beating until the meringue is glossy and elastic.

   • Gently fold in the chopped nuts and cornstarch until evenly distributed.

2. Shape and Bake the Meringue:

   • Preheat the oven to 100°C (212°F) with top and bottom heat.

   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

   • Transfer the meringue mixture into a piping bag fitted with a large round or star tip.

   • Pipe small mounds or desired shapes onto the prepared baking sheet.

   • Drizzle the melted dark chocolate over the meringues or gently swirl it into the meringue before piping to create a marbled effect.

   • Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 1.5 hours, or until the meringues are crisp and dry.

   • Turn off the oven and allow the meringues to cool completely inside with the door slightly ajar.

3. Prepare the Chocolate Cream:

   • In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy.

   • Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, beating continuously until well combined.

   • Sift in the cocoa powder and beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

4. Assemble the Dessert:

   • Once the meringues have cooled completely, pair them by size.

   • Spread or pipe a generous amount of chocolate cream onto the flat side of one meringue and sandwich it with another.

   • Repeat with the remaining meringues.

5. Serve:

   • Arrange the assembled meringue sandwiches on a serving platter.

   • Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with additional melted chocolate.

   • Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 250 kcal

• Protein: 3 g

• Fat: 12 g

• Carbohydrates: 32 g

• Sugar: 28 g

• Fiber: 1 g

Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

Meringue-based desserts have a rich history in European cuisine, particularly in France and Italy. The combination of meringue with nuts and chocolate is reminiscent of the classic Dacquoise, a French dessert cake made with layers of almond and hazelnut meringue and whipped cream or buttercream. This particular variation, featuring a chocolate cream filling, showcases the versatility and enduring appeal of meringue confections.

Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Texture Contrast: The crisp meringue shells paired with the smooth chocolate cream create a delightful textural contrast.

• Flavor Harmony: The nuttiness complements the rich chocolate, offering a balanced sweetness.

• Elegant Presentation: These meringue sandwiches make for an impressive dessert at gatherings.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: Both meringues and chocolate cream can be prepared in advance, simplifying event preparations.

Health Benefits

While this dessert is indulgent, it offers some nutritional benefits:

• Nuts: Provide healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients like magnesium and vitamin E.

• Dark Chocolate: Contains antioxidants and may contribute to heart health when consumed in moderation.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with fresh berries to add a tart contrast to the sweetness.

• Pair with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

• Accompany with coffee or dessert wine to complement the rich flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Undissolved Sugar: Ensure sugar is fully dissolved during the initial heating to prevent grainy meringue.

• Overbeating: Avoid overbeating the meringue, which can cause it to collapse.

• Humidity: High humidity can affect meringue texture; choose a dry day for baking if possible.

• Immediate Oven Opening: Allow meringues to cool in the oven to prevent cracking from sudden temperature changes.

Pairing Recommendations

• Beverages: Espresso, cappuccino, or dessert wines like Port or Sherry.

• Fruits: Fresh raspberries, strawberries, or cherries enhance the flavor profile.

• Nuts: Additional toasted nuts can be sprinkled on top for extra crunch.

Cooking Tips

• Room Temperature Eggs: Use room temperature egg whites for better volume.

• Clean Equipment: Ensure mixing bowls and beaters are free from grease for optimal meringue formation.

• Gentle Folding: Fold in nuts and cornstarch gently to maintain meringue structure.

• Consistent Piping: Pipe meringues of uniform size for even baking and pairing.

Similar Recipes to Try

• Hazelnut and Chocolate Meringue Cake: A layered dessert combining meringue, nuts, and chocolate.

• Chocolate Swirl Meringues with Nutella Whipped Cream: Meringues with a chocolate swirl, served with Nutella-infused whipped cream.

• Chocolate Walnut Meringues: Meringues featuring cocoa and finely chopped walnuts.

Variations to Try

• Different Nuts: Substitute almonds or pecans for a unique flavor.

• Flavored Cream: Incorporate coffee or liqueur into the chocolate cream for added depth.

• Fruit Filling: Add a layer of fruit preserves or fresh fruit slices between the meringues.

• Spices: Introduce cinnamon or chili powder to the chocolate cream for a spicy kick.

Ingredient Spotlight: Egg Whites

Egg whites are essential for meringue, providing structure and volume. When beaten, they trap air, creating a foam that gives meringue its characteristic lightness. Using fresh, room-temperature egg whites ensures optimal volume and stability.

Conclusion

This chocolate nut meringue with chocolate cream is a delightful fusion of textures and flavors, making it a standout dessert for any occasion. With its crisp exterior, creamy filling, and nutty undertones, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use different nuts in the meringue?

   • Yes, almonds, pecans, or macadamia nuts can be used as alternatives to walnuts or hazelnuts.