Chocolate Heart Delights with Creamy Filling

This dessert combines the rich, deep flavors of dark chocolate with the lightness of whipped cream, topped off with the freshness of strawberries. It's a visually stunning and delicious treat that's perfect for special occasions or just a sweet indulgence at home. With three lovely layers, these chocolate heart delights are as pleasing to the eyes as they are to the taste buds. You'll start with a decadent shell of dark chocolate, followed by a smooth and creamy filling enriched with vanilla. A fruity strawberry blend adds a touch of sweetness and color to the final presentation. Although it seems intricate, this recipe is quite straightforward, making it enjoyable for both beginner and experienced dessert makers. Best paired with a cup of coffee or tea, these chocolate hearts will surely impress your family and friends. Read on for easy-to-follow instructions so you can create this delightful treat at home!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

70% Dark Chocolate
300 ml Heavy Cream
3 Tablespoons Sugar
20 g Gelatin
Strawberries
Vanilla Extract or Vanilla Sugar

Preparation Time

Total Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Gelatin: Sprinkle the gelatin over a small amount of water to bloom.
Melt the Chocolate: Place the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Stir until completely melted.
Shape Chocolate Shells: Pour the melted chocolate into heart-shaped silicone molds. Tilt to coat evenly and refrigerate until firm.
Whip the Cream: In a bowl, combine the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until soft peaks form, creating a fluffy whipped cream.
Blend Strawberries: Puree the strawberries until smooth to make a fresh strawberry sauce.
Melt Gelatin: Heat the bloomed gelatin in the microwave for 20 seconds at 700 watts until dissolved.
Incorporate Gelatin into Cream: Add one tablespoon of whipped cream to the gelatin, stir, then mix back into the larger bowl of whipped cream.
First Layer: Extract chocolate shells from molds. Add one tablespoon of prepared whipped cream to each heart-shaped shell, pressing down gently.
Second Layer: Mix the remaining whipped cream with the blended strawberries until combined. Fill each chocolate shell with this mixture for a balanced flavor.
Third Layer: Use any leftover strawberry puree to create small heart designs on top for a decorative touch.
Decorate: Enhance appearance by adding strawberry heart slices as a garnish.
Chill and Serve: Let the chocolate hearts set in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving to ensure firmness and flavor infusion.

Tips

Use Quality Chocolate: For best results, use high-quality dark chocolate for a richer taste.
Alternative Cream: Substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Strawberry Substitution: Feel free to experiment with other berries like raspberries or blueberries.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
Protein: 3g
Fats: 18g
Carbs: 20g

Variations

Vegan Option: Use gelatin-free agar-agar and dairy-free cream for a vegan version.
Extra Crunch: Include crushed nuts like hazelnuts for added texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled with a warm cup of coffee or a fragrant herbal tea.
Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.

Best Places

Pierre Hermé - Renowned for its pastries. Location: 4 Rue Cambon, Paris, France.
Angelina - Famous for hot chocolate. Location: 226 Rue de Rivoli, Paris, France.
Ladurée - Known for macarons. Location: 16 Rue Royale, Paris, France.
Max Brenner - Chocolate bar and café. Location: 841 Broadway, New York, USA.
Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop - Offers chocolate of all forms. Location: 900 North Point St, San Francisco, USA.
Chocolatería San Ginés - Best for churros and chocolate. Location: Pasadizo de San Ginés, 5, Madrid, Spain.
Demel - Classic Viennese café. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, Vienna, Austria.
Amedei - Prestigious chocolatier. Location: Via della Danza, 1, Pontedera, Italy.
Godiva Café - High-end chocolate treats. Location: Various worldwide.
L.A. Burdick Handmade Chocolates - Hand-crafted excellence. Location: 52 Brattle St, Cambridge, USA.