Chocolate and Plum Cream Delight

This elegant dessert combines the richness of white chocolate with the tangy sweetness of dried plums, marinated in dessert wine for an added depth of flavor. The creamy texture achieved by blending chocolate with whipped cream, spiked with a hint of cognac, makes for a luxurious treat. The use of gelatin helps to stabilize the mixture, allowing it to set perfectly into a silky, melt-in-your-mouth delight. Finished with a garnish of grated chocolate and fresh berries, it's as visually stunning as it is delicious. Ideal for dinner parties or special occasions, this dessert can be made in advance, serving as a perfect finale to a sumptuous meal. Balancing sweet and tart flavors, it captivates both the eyes and the palate. While making it may demand some patience due to its setting time, the reward is more than worth the wait. Whether you’re an experienced dessert maker or a novice eager to try something new, this dish offers an irresistible blend of textures and flavors. Experience the joy of crafting a sophisticated dessert that promises to impress your guests and leave a lasting impression.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

150 g dried plums
100 ml white dessert wine
6 g gelatin
200 g white chocolate
2 tbsp cocoa
1 egg
2 egg yolks
20 ml cognac
600 ml heavy cream
Grated white and dark chocolate
Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, etc.)

Preparation Time

260 minutes (including prep and setting time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Plums: Finely chop the dried plums and pour dessert wine over them. Allow the plums to marinate for 20 minutes, enhancing their flavor and plumpness.
Melt the Chocolate: In a double boiler, gently melt the white chocolate until smooth and glossy, taking care not to overheat as this can cause the chocolate to seize.
Mix Chocolate with Eggs: In another bowl set over the same boiler, whisk together the whole egg and yolks until thickened and pale. Mix them with the melted chocolate slowly to maintain a smooth consistency.
Combine with Plums: Add the wine-marinated plums to the chocolate-egg mixture, stirring well to ensure they're evenly distributed.
Prepare the Gelatin: Bloom the gelatin in a little cold water, allowing it to sit until it swells. Melt it gently over simmering water and mix into the chocolate mixture until combined thoroughly. This will help the cream set perfectly.
Whip the Cream: In a chilled bowl, whisk the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Take care not to over-whip as it can turn into butter.
Combine All Ingredients: Once the chocolate mixture begins to thicken, gently fold in the whipped cream. Be cautious to fold softly to retain the air in the cream that ensures a light texture.
Add Cognac: Slowly stir in the cognac, balancing the sweet and creamy components.
Chill the Mixture: Rinse your serving dishes with cold water and fill them with chocolate cream. This step helps in easy releasing after setting.
Set the Dessert: Place the dishes in the refrigerator and allow them to set for around 4 hours. The waiting allows the dessert to develop its full flavor and achieve the perfect consistency.
Prepare Garnishes: While waiting, grate some white and dark chocolate and keep fresh berries washed and ready for serving.
Serve and Enjoy: Once set, the dessert is ready to be garnished. Sprinkle grated chocolate over the top and decorate with fresh berries for a burst of color and added taste.
Final Touch: Taste test before serving to ensure perfect balance, making adjustments in sweetness or tartness if required with extra cocoa sprinkles or berries.
Plating: Serve the dessert in its dish or gently unmold it onto plates for a more formal presentation.
Presentation Tip: For an extra touch, dust plates with cocoa or icing sugar for visual appeal.
Pair with Wine: A muscat or late-harvest wine pairs wonderfully with this creamy dessert, enhancing its complex flavors.
Practical Advice: Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge. They are best consumed within a couple of days.
Adjust Flavors: If you prefer less alcohol flavor, reduce the cognac by half or omit it altogether for a more subtle profile.
Festive Twist: Add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a festive flavor.
Get Creative: Substitute the wine for orange juice, especially if catering to a younger audience or those avoiding alcohol.

Tips

Gelatin Substitution: For a vegetarian option, use agar-agar in place of gelatin.
Preserve Color: Use a small amount of lemon juice to keep berries fresh longer.
Dietary Modifications: Opt for dark chocolate for a less sweet version.
Preparation Aid: Keep ingredients ready and organized for a smoother cooking experience.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 480 per serving
Protein: 6g
Fats: 35g
Carbohydrates: 38g

Variations

Alcohol-Free: Replace cognac and wine with grape or apple juice for a non-alcoholic version.
Vegan Option: Use coconut cream and vegan chocolate.
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate crushed nuts like almonds or pistachios for added texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a crisp biscuit or wafer on the side for added crunch.
Pair with a dessert wine like Sauternes for complementing flavors.
Enhance its elegance by serving in a martini glass with a sprig of mint.

Best Places

Café de l'Rêve - Known for their delicate desserts with a charming blend of flavors. Location: 123 Dream Lane, Paris, France
The Sweet Symphony - Offers classic desserts with a modern twist. Location: 45 Harmony St, London, UK
Gelato & Chocolate Boutique - Celebrated for artisan desserts. Location: Via Dolce 7, Rome, Italy
Cocoa Palace - A must-visit for chocolate lovers. Location: 9 Choco Ave, Zurich, Switzerland
Berrilicious Delights - Specializes in berry-infused delicacies. Location: 67 Berry Blvd, Toronto, Canada
The Decadent Spoon - Offers exquisite dessert dining. Location: 22 Sugar Pl, New York, USA
Chocolate Cloud Café - Famous for their rich, cloud-like desserts. Location: 12 Sweet St, Sydney, Australia
Plum Haven - Perfect for those who adore fruit-infused sweets. Location: 34 Orchard Rd, Auckland, New Zealand
Sweet Embrace - Features heartwarming dessert creations. Location: 85 Treat Lane, Vienna, Austria
La Petite Confiserie - Offers a taste of traditional confections with a contemporary flair. Location: 56 Rue de Bonbon, Brussels, Belgium