Creamy Mascarpone Delight (Crema al Mascarpone)
Category: Desserts
Servings: 4
This rich and velvety mascarpone cream is a delightful dessert that can be served in a variety of ways—from a spoonable treat to a perfect accompaniment for traditional holiday cakes like panettone or pandoro. With its smooth texture and subtle sweetness, it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings elegance to any occasion.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mascarpone | 500g |
| Sugar | 125g |
| Egg yolks | 4 |
| Water | 50g |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | to taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 430 kcal |
| Protein | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Sugars | 28g |
| Fat | 33g |
| Saturated Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 240mg |
| Sodium | 30mg |
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredient brands or variations.
Instructions
-
Prepare the Pâte à Bombe Base:
Start by placing the water and sugar in a saucepan. Stir lightly to combine and then bring the mixture to a temperature of 121°C (about 250°F). Use a kitchen thermometer to carefully monitor the temperature. Just before it reaches 121°C—around 115°C (239°F)—begin whisking the egg yolks using an electric mixer or hand whisk. Continue whisking vigorously until the mixture cools completely. This process will create the “pâte à bombe,” a base that is commonly used in many pastry preparations to give a light, airy texture to creams and mousses. -
Prepare the Mascarpone:
While the egg yolk mixture is cooling, place the mascarpone cheese in a bowl. Use a spatula to gently soften it until it becomes smooth and creamy. This will help the mascarpone blend seamlessly into the rest of the ingredients. -
Incorporate the Yolk Mixture:
Once the egg yolk mixture has cooled to room temperature, gradually add it to the softened mascarpone, a little at a time. As you pour it in, continue mixing with either a hand whisk or a spatula. Be gentle but thorough, ensuring the two components blend evenly without losing the airiness of the pâte à bombe. -
Whisk Until Smooth:
Using a hand mixer or whisk, continue blending until the cream is smooth and has a light, fluffy texture. The mascarpone cream should hold its shape but be creamy and slightly airy. -
Serve and Garnish:
Once the mascarpone cream is ready, transfer it into serving bowls or individual dessert cups. To enhance its flavor and appearance, you can sift a little unsweetened cocoa powder on top. This adds a touch of bitterness that beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the cream. You can also serve it alongside a slice of traditional Italian panettone or pandoro for an extra special treat.
Serving Suggestions
-
With Panettone or Pandoro:
This mascarpone cream pairs perfectly with classic Italian holiday cakes like panettone or pandoro. Simply serve a generous dollop of the cream on top of each slice of cake for a luxurious dessert. -
As a Standalone Dessert:
Enjoy it as a dessert on its own, spooned into small cups and garnished with cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for a sophisticated treat. -
For Special Occasions:
Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or hosting a dinner party, this creamy mascarpone delight adds a touch of elegance to the table. It’s easy to prepare yet incredibly indulgent, making it an ideal choice for a variety of gatherings.
Tips for the Best Mascarpone Cream:
-
Fresh Mascarpone:
For the creamiest texture, always use fresh mascarpone. If you can, opt for a high-quality brand that’s known for its rich flavor and smooth consistency. -
Use a Thermometer:
When making the pâte à bombe, accuracy is key. A kitchen thermometer will ensure that the sugar-water mixture reaches the exact temperature needed to create the correct texture for the yolks. -
Chill the Cream:
If possible, refrigerate the mascarpone cream for about 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors to meld together and gives the cream a firmer consistency. -
Add a Twist:
For a flavor variation, try adding a splash of vanilla extract, a pinch of cinnamon, or a few drops of espresso for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
This crema al mascarpone is the perfect way to bring a little bit of Italy to your dessert table. Whether you’re enjoying it with family and friends during the holidays or as a sweet treat at the end of a dinner party, its smooth and decadent texture will make it a memorable addition to your culinary repertoire.
