Chocolate Cranachan: A Luxurious Twist on a Scottish Classic
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Scotland with this sumptuous Chocolate Cranachan, a traditional harvest-time pudding that has been reimagined for a modern palate. This decadent dessert harmoniously combines creamy textures and rich flavors, featuring artisanal Crowdie cheese, velvety heavy cream, toasted oats, succulent berries, a hint of whisky, and a touch of honey. In this updated version, we introduce smooth crème fraîche, crunchy toasted hazelnuts, and finely grated bittersweet chocolate, all artfully layered in individual goblets. To achieve the best flavor fusion, prepare the parfaits ahead of time and allow them to chill overnight in the refrigerator before serving. This exquisite dessert not only showcases the charm of traditional Scottish cuisine but also brings a touch of elegance to any gathering or special occasion.
Recipe Details
- Recipe Category: Dessert
- Preparation Time: 2 hours
- Chill Time: 24 hours
- Total Time: 26 hours
- Servings: 6
- Calories per Serving: 613.1
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 oz | Bittersweet chocolate |
| 1 oz | Hazelnuts |
| 1/3 cup | Golden brown sugar |
| 1 cup | Oats |
| 1 3/4 cups | Heavy whipping cream |
| 1/3 cup | Crème fraîche |
| 3/4 cup | Sour cream |
| 1/3 cup | Sugar |
| 2 tbsp | Whisky |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 613.1 kcal |
| Total Fat | 46 g |
| Saturated Fat | 20.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 113.2 mg |
| Sodium | 35.1 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 37.4 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.9 g |
| Sugars | 15.1 g |
| Protein | 9.4 g |
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), creating a warm environment for toasting the oats and hazelnuts.
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Prepare the Chocolate Mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the bittersweet chocolate, toasted hazelnuts, and golden brown sugar. Stir gently to ensure even distribution of the ingredients, allowing the rich flavors to intermingle.
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Toast the Oats: Spread the oats evenly across a rimmed baking sheet, ensuring they are in a single layer to promote even toasting. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the oats for approximately 7 minutes or until they turn golden brown, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
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Combine Oats with Chocolate: Once the oats are toasted, carefully stir them into the chocolate mixture while they are still warm. The heat from the oats will slightly melt the chocolate, creating a luscious blend of flavors. Set the mixture aside and allow it to cool until the chocolate firms up, which should take at least 2 hours.
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Whip the Cream: Using an electric mixer, beat together the heavy whipping cream, crème fraîche, and sugar in a large mixing bowl until the mixture holds soft peaks. This step adds a light and airy texture to the dessert that beautifully complements the richer components.
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Incorporate the Whisky: Gently fold in the whisky into the whipped cream mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed without deflating the cream. The whisky will impart a subtle warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
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Layer the Parfaits: To assemble the parfaits, take six goblets, each holding between 10 to 12 ounces. Begin by layering approximately 1/4 cup of the cream mixture at the bottom of each goblet, followed by 1/4 cup of the oat-chocolate mixture. Repeat this layering process, finishing with another 1/4 cup of the cream mixture on top.
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Garnish and Chill: To complete each parfait, sprinkle a bit of the oat mixture on the very top for a delightful crunch. Cover the assembled parfaits with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate them overnight. This chilling process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a more harmonious and enjoyable dessert.
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Serve and Enjoy: When you’re ready to serve, simply remove the parfaits from the refrigerator. Their elegant presentation in the goblets will surely impress your guests, making this Chocolate Cranachan a standout dessert at any occasion.
Indulging in this Chocolate Cranachan not only offers a taste of Scotland’s culinary heritage but also invites the rich flavors of chocolate and hazelnuts into a timeless classic, making it a perfect addition to your dessert repertoire. Enjoy this luxurious treat with family and friends, and let the flavors of the season bring warmth and joy to your table!
