Amore della Casa – Love of the House

Ingredients

• 8 oz dark chocolate (60-70% cocoa)
• 1 cup roasted hazelnuts
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 4 large egg yolks
• 0.33 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 pinch sea salt

Instructions

1. 1

   In a double boiler, gently melt the dark chocolate and set aside to cool slightly.

2. 2

   Blend roasted hazelnuts into a fine powder using a food processor.

3. 3

   In a saucepan, heat heavy cream and milk over medium heat until steaming, but not boiling. Remove from heat.

4. 4

   In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Slowly pour in the hot cream mixture while continuously whisking to prevent lumps.

5. 5

   Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 8-10 minutes).

6. 6

   Remove from heat and pour the custard over the cooled chocolate. Stir until smooth.

7. 7

   Add the hazelnut powder to the chocolate mixture and mix well.

8. 8

   Transfer the mixture to individual serving dishes and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.

9. 9

   Before serving, garnish with a light dusting of cocoa powder and a single roasted hazelnut.