Mascarpone Pralines

Here is the recipe for mascarpone pralines, a delicious and refined sweet treat.

Ingredients

• 250 g of mascarpone
• 100 g of dark chocolate
• 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar
• Unsweetened cocoa powder, as needed
• Crumbled dry biscuits or chopped nuts, for coating (optional)

Preparation

1. In a large bowl, mix the mascarpone with the powdered sugar until you obtain a smooth and homogeneous cream.
2. Melt the dark chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave, making sure to stir it until it’s smooth and without lumps.
3. Let the melted chocolate cool down for a few minutes and then incorporate it into the mascarpone, mixing gently until it is uniformly combined.
4. Place the mixture in the refrigerator for about an hour, so that it becomes slightly firm and easier to handle.
5. After resting in the fridge, use a teaspoon or an ice cream scoop to take portions of the cream and form balls with your hands, which you can lightly moisten to prevent the mixture from sticking.
6. Roll the pralines in the unsweetened cocoa powder to completely coat them, or if you prefer, in the chopped nuts or crumbled dry biscuits.
7. Arrange the pralines on a plate lined with parchment paper and let them firm up in the refrigerator for at least another hour before serving.

Curiosity

Mascarpone pralines are perfect for concluding an elegant dinner or to accompany an afternoon coffee. Mascarpone is an Italian creamy cheese, known for its softness and versatility, often used in the preparation of desserts like tiramisu. In this case, it is paired with the richness of dark chocolate, creating a highly appreciated taste contrast. You can play with the coatings to add texture and flavor, such as hazelnut pieces, chopped pistachios, or dehydrated coconut.