Amandine

Amandine Recipe: The Classic Delight That Will Enchant Your Taste Buds

If you are looking for a dessert that perfectly combines chocolate with a creamy texture and just the right amount of moisture, then amandines are the ideal choice. This refined dessert, known for its layers of soft sponge, fine cream, and glossy glaze, proves to be a true culinary indulgence. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step, providing you with useful information and tips to achieve the most delicious amandines. Let's be carried away into the sweet world of cooking!

Preparation time: 1 hour (including baking, cooling, and preparing the glaze)
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Number of servings: 12-16 servings

Ingredients

Sponge:
- 6 eggs
- 200 g sugar
- 30 ml water
- 30 ml oil
- 20 g cocoa powder
- 8 tablespoons flour

Cream:
- 4 egg yolks
- 200 g powdered sugar
- 200 g butter (at room temperature) + 50 g margarine
- 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 vial of rum essence

Syrup:
- 400 ml water
- 150 g sugar
- 2 packets of cappuccino (or instant coffee, to taste)
- 1 vial of rum essence

Glaze:
- 150 g milk chocolate
- 50 ml liquid cream

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the sponge

1. Beat the egg whites: In a large bowl, add the egg whites and beat them with a mixer until frothy. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until you achieve a firm, glossy foam.

2. Add the wet ingredients: In another bowl, beat the egg yolks with water and oil. Add the yolk mixture over the egg white foam, folding in gently with a spatula using an up-and-down motion to avoid losing air from the mixture.

3. Incorporate the dry ingredients: Sift the flour and cocoa powder together, then add the flour mixture to the wet composition, continuing to mix gently.

4. Bake the sponge: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking pan with butter and line it with flour and parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. After baking, let the sponge cool completely in the pan.

Step 2: Preparing the cream

1. Cook the egg yolks: In a heat-resistant bowl, mix the egg yolks with 100 g of powdered sugar. Place the bowl over a water bath, stirring constantly until the cream thickens. This step is essential for achieving a smooth and delicious cream. Once thickened, allow the cream to cool.

2. Prepare the butter: In another bowl, beat the room-temperature butter for 1-2 minutes until creamy. Add the remaining powdered sugar (100 g) and mix until dissolved.

3. Finish the cream: Once the egg yolk cream has cooled, add it to the whipped butter. Sift cocoa powder on top and add the rum essence. Mix until you achieve a smooth, creamy composition, then refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Preparing the syrup

1. Boil all ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the water, sugar, and cappuccino packets. Bring to a boil for 5 minutes. After it cools slightly, add the rum essence.

Step 4: Assembly

1. Cut the sponge: Once the sponge has cooled, cut it into two equal halves.

2. Soak the sponge: Use a pastry brush to generously soak the first half of the sponge with the prepared syrup, then add the cream on top.

3. Finish with the second half: Place the other half of the sponge on top, soaking it as well. Refrigerate everything for 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 5: Preparing the glaze

1. Melt the chocolate: In a bowl over a water bath, place the chocolate broken into pieces and the liquid cream. Stir constantly until melted and smooth.

2. Glaze the cake: Allow the glaze to cool slightly, then pour it evenly over the assembled cake. Ensure that the glaze covers the entire surface.

3. Refrigerate: Let the cake cool until the glaze hardens completely.

Serving

Amandines can be served plain, but for an added touch of elegance, you can top them with whipped cream or a slice of fresh fruit (such as raspberries or strawberries) for a delightful contrast.

Useful tips

- Ingredient care: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature, especially the butter, to achieve a uniform cream.
- Syrup-free version: If you prefer drier amandines, you can omit the syrup or use only rum essence for the desired flavor.
- Chocolate variations: Instead of milk chocolate, you can use dark chocolate for a more intense glaze or even white chocolate for a sweet and creamy contrast.

Nutritional information

One serving of amandines contains approximately 350 calories, offering a combination of carbohydrates from sugar and flour, fats from butter, and proteins from eggs. These pastries are an excellent source of energy, but moderation is essential due to their high sugar content.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use free-range eggs?
Yes, free-range eggs can provide a richer flavor and a more intense color to the cream.

2. How can I make these pastries healthier?
Try reducing the amount of sugar or using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, but also adjust the preparation technique.

3. What drinks pair well with amandines?
A strong espresso or a flavorful cappuccino pairs wonderfully with amandines, but you can also opt for a sweet wine for a refined combination.

Conclusion

These amandines are more than just a dessert; they are a culinary experience that will take you back to moments of indulgence. Don't hesitate to personalize your recipe and share it with loved ones, as every bite will bring joy and smiles. So, put on your chef's apron and let's enjoy cooking!