Chocolate cream without gelatin

Chocolate cream without gelatin is a quick and delicious dessert, perfect for chocolate lovers. This simple recipe promises to be a true indulgence, with a creamy texture and an intense chocolate flavor. Moreover, it is easy to prepare and does not require complicated ingredients. Let's start our culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooling time: 1 hour
Total: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 150 g unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 100 g powdered sugar
- 200 g dark chocolate (minimum 70% cocoa)
- 2 tablespoons of good quality cocoa powder
- 3 large, fresh eggs
- A pinch of salt
- Vanilla extract (optional)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by taking the butter out of the fridge about 30 minutes before preparation, so it reaches room temperature. This will help create a smooth cream. Also, ensure that the chocolate is of good quality, as the final taste will largely depend on it.

2. Creaming the butter with sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the butter with the powdered sugar. Mix on medium speed until the mixture becomes fluffy and creamy white, about 3-5 minutes. This step is essential for incorporating air into the cream, which will help achieve a fine texture.

3. Melting the chocolate: In a heat-resistant container, break the chocolate into small pieces and add the cocoa powder. Place the container over a double boiler (or in a pot of hot water) and stir constantly until the chocolate melts completely. Be careful not to overheat it; the chocolate should be smooth and shiny.

4. Combining the ingredients: Once the chocolate has melted, let it cool slightly, then incorporate it into the butter and sugar mixture. Mix well with a spatula or the mixer on low speed until everything is perfectly combined.

5. Adding the eggs: In another bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt and the vanilla extract, if using. Gradually add the egg mixture to the chocolate cream, stirring constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling. Continue mixing until you achieve a smooth and silky consistency.

6. Cooling: Pour the chocolate cream into individual containers or a large bowl. Cover them with plastic wrap and let them cool in the fridge for at least 1 hour to firm up a bit.

7. Serving: Serve the chocolate cream without gelatin plain or with a topping of whipped cream, fresh fruits (such as raspberries or strawberries), or chocolate shavings. Another delicious suggestion would be to serve it alongside crunchy cookies or with a spoonful of caramel sauce for a perfect contrast.

Practical tips:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a smooth emulsion.
- You can experiment with different types of chocolate; white chocolate or milk chocolate can provide a distinct flavor.
- If you want a more intense taste, add a pinch of instant coffee to the chocolate mixture.

This gelatin-free chocolate cream recipe is not only simple but also versatile, allowing you to customize it according to your preferences. Enjoy every spoonful of this decadent treat!