Pan di Stelle Cake Recipe
Category: Desserts
Servings: 8
Preparation Time: 45 minutes (plus chilling time)
Difficulty: Medium
Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Pan di Stelle Cake, a creamy and chocolatey treat inspired by the iconic Italian biscuit. This dessert features layers of crunchy, milk-soaked biscuits combined with velvety whipped cream and rich chocolate, all crowned with a dusting of cocoa and a decorative star-shaped stencil design. Perfect for celebrations or a cozy dessert after dinner, this cake will transport you to the world of creamy, biscuit-filled bliss.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pan di Stelle biscuits | 450 g |
| Fresh cream (liquid) | 600 g |
| Dark chocolate | 100 g |
| Powdered sugar | 80 g |
| Whole milk | 70 g |
| Whole milk (for soaking) | As needed |
| Cocoa powder | As needed |
| Powdered sugar (for decoration) | As needed |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 400 |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Sugars | 30 g |
| Fat | 25 g |
| Saturated Fat | 14 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 50 mg |
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient brands and specific quantities used.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Biscuit Base
To begin, finely chop 100 grams of dark chocolate and set it aside. Take 200 grams of the Pan di Stelle biscuits and crumble them into small pieces in a large bowl. Pour in the 70 grams of milk and mix until the biscuits are evenly soaked. This creates a flavorful, soft base for the cake.
Place a 22 cm (8.5-inch) round pastry ring on a tray lined with parchment paper. Pour the crushed biscuit mixture into the ring and press it down firmly with the back of a spoon. This will form a solid, compact base. Transfer the tray to the refrigerator and chill for about 20 minutes to allow the base to set and firm up.
2. Whip the Cream
While the base is chilling, pour the fresh liquid cream into a mixing bowl. Add 80 grams of powdered sugar to the cream and begin whipping using an electric mixer. Beat the mixture until it forms soft peaks, creating a light and fluffy whipped cream. Once whipped, set it aside in the fridge to keep it firm.
3. Assemble the Cake
After the base has chilled and firmed up, spoon a couple of tablespoons of whipped cream onto the biscuit layer. Spread the cream evenly using the back of a spoon to create a smooth, even surface.
Take the remaining Pan di Stelle biscuits and dip them briefly into the milk to soften them. Layer the milk-soaked biscuits on top of the whipped cream, covering the surface entirely. Repeat the process by adding another layer of whipped cream, smoothing it over with a spoon, and then placing another layer of soaked biscuits on top. Sprinkle the finely chopped dark chocolate over this second layer. Repeat the process, ensuring that the last layer of biscuits and cream reaches the edge of the pastry ring. Finish by leveling the surface with a spatula to create a smooth, even top.
Once the layers are completed, cover the cake and place it in the freezer for at least 2 hours. This will help the cake set and hold its shape.
4. Decorate the Cake
After the cake has chilled and firmed up, remove it from the freezer. Gently remove the pastry ring and transfer the cake to a serving plate. To decorate, sift cocoa powder over the entire surface of the cake. Use a fine mesh sieve to create an even layer of cocoa.
Now comes the fun partโcreating the star-shaped design. Draw a star stencil on a piece of paper to match the pattern on the Pan di Stelle biscuits. Cut out the stencil and place a sheet of clear plastic or parchment paper over it. Carefully place this stencil on top of the cake, ensuring it is positioned precisely where you want the stars to appear.
Sprinkle powdered sugar over the stencil, creating a sparkling, starry decoration on top of the cake. Gently remove the stencil, being cautious not to disturb the design. If desired, you can use an extra set of hands to help distribute the powdered sugar for a cleaner design.
5. Serve and Enjoy
The Pan di Stelle cake is now ready to serve! Slice the cake into portions, ensuring each slice gets a piece of the indulgent layers. The combination of the soft, whipped cream and chocolate-soaked biscuits is simply irresistible. Enjoy this decadent dessert with a cup of coffee or as a special treat after dinner.
Tips for a Perfect Pan di Stelle Cake
-
Chill Well: Make sure to chill each layer properly before assembling the next one. This ensures the cake holds together and doesn’t become too soft or runny.
-
Customize the Design: Feel free to get creative with the stencil design. You can use a different stencil or even just sift cocoa powder for a simpler look.
-
Serving Suggestion: For an extra indulgence, top each slice with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
-
Storage: Store the Pan di Stelle cake in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for longer storage. Make sure to cover it properly to maintain freshness.
Conclusion
This Pan di Stelle cake is the perfect dessert for anyone who loves the combination of chocolate, cream, and crunchy biscuits. Its layers of soaked biscuits and fluffy whipped cream come together to create a wonderfully textured and decadent treat. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or just want to indulge in a comforting homemade dessert, this cake will never disappoint.
