Charlotte Celebrates National Cappuccino Day with a Sweet Twist!
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Hold onto your coffee mugs, folks! Today is a day dedicated to all things *cappuccino*, and what better way to celebrate than with a delightful recipe that gives us a new take on this beloved beverage? That’s right, get ready to whip up some delectable cappuccino pudding with the help of renowned chef, Jill Aker Ray!
It’s All About the Love for Cappuccino
Cappuccino, a classic Italian favorite, is more than just a drink; it’s a testament to skilled craftsmanship and a vibrant coffee culture. While many of us enjoy sipping on a perfectly made cappuccino with its rich espresso and silky frothed milk, Chef Jill is here to show us that this beloved brew can inspire some equally amazing desserts. “Today instead of making the Cappuccino drink, we are going to do something a little different to celebrate the day,” says Chef Jill. Sounds like a plan, right?
Dive into the Recipe!
If your mouth is watering already, you’re in for a treat! Here’s how you can recreate Chef Jill’s mouthwatering Cappuccino Pudding at home:
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons instant espresso coffee powder or granules
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2-1/2 cups whipping cream
- 1 cup milk
- 3 egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened baking cocoa
Steps to Make the Magic Happen:
- In a 2-quart heavy saucepan, mix together the brown sugar, cornstarch, coffee powder, and salt. That’s your *base*!
- Add 2 cups of the whipping cream, the milk, and the egg yolks. Stir with a whisk until everything is well blended.
- Now, it’s time to heat things up! Bring the mix to a boil over medium heat and let it boil for about 1 minute until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Once ready, remove from heat and divide the pudding between 6 serving bowls or custard cups.
- Cover the tops with plastic wrap (this prevents any skin from forming), and pop them in the fridge for about 2 hours or until chilled.
- Just before serving, take the remaining 1/2 cup of whipping cream and beat it with the powdered sugar in a chilled bowl until stiff peaks form. *Whipped cream magic!*
- Top each serving of pudding with the fluffy whipped cream and add a sprinkle of cocoa for that elegant touch.
Time to Indulge!
And voilà! You now have a fabulous dessert that embodies the spirit of cappuccino in a delicious pudding form. Perfect for impressing your friends, family, or just indulging in a little self-care treat. For more great recipes and culinary inspiration, be sure to visit Chef Jill Aker Ray’s website at ChefJillAkerRay.com or follow her on Instagram @JillAkerRay!
Let’s Raise a Cup!
So, whether you choose to whip up this tantalizing pudding or stick to your traditional cup of cappuccino, here’s to honoring the rich culture surrounding this beloved beverage. Happy Cappuccino Day, Charlotte! Cheers!