Zuccotto Fiorentino

Zuccotto Fiorentino is a delightful Italian dessert that combines layers of sponge cake soaked in coffee, filled with a rich chocolate and mascarpone cream. This elegant treat is perfect for sharing and brings a taste of Florence to your table.

Ingredients

• Sponge cake - 100 grams
• Strong brewed coffee - 100 ml
• Mascarpone cheese - 150 grams
• Dark chocolate (70% cocoa) - 50 grams
• Powdered sugar - 30 grams
• Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon
• Cocoa powder - for dusting
• Chopped nuts (hazelnuts or almonds) - 30 grams
• Milk - 50 ml

Steps

1. Brew strong coffee and let it cool to room temperature.
2. In a mixing bowl, melt the dark chocolate over a double boiler or in the microwave until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.
3. In another bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Add the melted chocolate to the mascarpone mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Cut the sponge cake into slices and dip each slice quickly in the cooled coffee.
6. Line a small bowl or mold with plastic wrap, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
7. Layer the soaked sponge cake slices around the sides and bottom of the bowl, ensuring there are no gaps.
8. Spoon half of the chocolate mascarpone mixture into the center, then sprinkle half of the chopped nuts on top.
9. Add another layer of soaked sponge cake slices, followed by the remaining mascarpone mixture and nuts.
10. Finish with a final layer of sponge cake, pressing down gently.
11. Cover with the overhanging plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
12. Once set, carefully invert the Zuccotto onto a serving plate, remove the plastic wrap, and dust with cocoa powder before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 410
• Protein: 7 g
• Carbs: 38 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 18 g
• Sodium: 30 mg
• Cholesterol: 50 mg
• Total Fat: 27 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
• Water: 0.1 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in antioxidants from dark chocolate which may improve heart health.
• Contains protein and calcium from mascarpone cheese, beneficial for bone health.

Tags