Herbed Cocoa Berry Dessert (Printable)
Rich dark chocolate sauce infused with fresh mint and basil, drizzled over vibrant mixed berries for a sophisticated dessert experience.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Fresh Berries
01 - 7 oz mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
→ Cocoa Base
02 - 3.5 oz dark chocolate (minimum 70% cocoa), chopped
03 - 0.5 cup heavy cream
04 - 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
→ Herbs
05 - 2 tbsp fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
06 - 2 tsp fresh basil, finely chopped
→ Sweetener
07 - 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
→ Garnish
08 - 1 tbsp pistachios, chopped (optional)
09 - Additional fresh herbs for serving
# How-To Steps:
01 - Wash and gently pat dry the berries. Slice larger berries if desired for even presentation.
02 - Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until just simmering. Remove from heat and add the chopped dark chocolate and cocoa powder. Let sit for 1 minute, then whisk until smooth and glossy.
03 - Stir in the honey or maple syrup, mint, and basil until well combined and aromatic.
04 - Arrange the berries in serving bowls or glasses. Drizzle the warm herbed cocoa sauce over the berries.
05 - Garnish with chopped pistachios and extra fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately while sauce is warm.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It tastes incredibly fancy yet comes together in under half an hour.
- The mix of basil and mint adds a fresh twist that surprises everyone.
02 -
- Do not let the cream boil vigorously or the chocolate might seize and become grainy.
- Letting the sauce sit for a few minutes thickens it into a fudge like texture that is divine.
03 -
- Chop the chocolate into uniform pieces for a faster and smoother melt.
- A tiny pinch of sea salt in the sauce makes the chocolate flavor pop even more.