Ganache is said to have been invented sometime in the 1850s when a chocolatier’s apprentice accidentally poured boiling cream over some chocolate. Furious, the master chocolatier chastised his apprentice, calling him “ganache,” a term that at the time meant “dimwit” or “moron” in French. (It also refers to a horse’s jowl.) But as it turns … Continue reading Tarte au Chocolat (Chocolate Tart)
A recipe for the classic galette des Rois, a traditional cake consisting of flaky puff pastry layers with a dense center of creamy frangipane, or almond cream. The recipe can easily be adapted to make a delicious chocolate variation.
The invention of these luxury chocolate confections is credited to French pâtissier Louis Dufour, who is said to have created the first chocolate truffles in the town of Chambéry (Savoie department) in December 1895 after running short of ingredients while making his Christmas sweets. Rather than turning to his competitors to purchase supplies, Monsieur Dufour … Continue reading Dark Chocolate Truffles with Cognac and Orange Extract
The traditional French dessert at Christmas is the bûche de Noël, known in English-speaking countries as Yule log. Usually prepared on Christmas Eve, this light sponge cake roll is garnished with either chocolate, mocha or chestnut filling (my favourite!). It is then covered with chocolate icing, raked with a serrated knife or fork to give … Continue reading Bûche de Noël
ChocoParis missed the last two MacTweets Mac Attack Challenges, the themed monthly macaron making challenges organised by Deeba and Jamie of MacTweets. Anyone can participate, and it’s a great way to learn while having fun. The deadline for this month’s challenge is December 25th. Ironically, despite not being able to make the deadlines recently, I’ve … Continue reading More macaron adventures
One of the pleasures of summer is the abundance of fresh produce. And when it comes to chocolate recipes, even the garden can be a source of inspiration. Zucchini and chocolate are an unlikely combination, but the resulting marriage of flavours and textures is in fact a perfect match. This recipe for chocolate zucchini bread, adapted … Continue reading Summer Desserts: Chocolate Zucchini Bread
These delicate macarons with a smooth and light lemon curd are refreshing and perfect for summer.
