Chocolate Cones With Apricot Sauce -

Chocolate Cones With Apricot Sauce

Ingredients

250g/9oz plain dark chocolate, chopped into small pieces
350g/12oz/1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
45ml/3 tbsp double cream
30ml/2 tbsp brandy
30ml/2 tbsp icing sugar
Finely grated rind of 1 lemon
Pared strips of lemon rind, to decorate

FOR THE SAUCE

175g/6oz/ 2/3 cup apricot jam
45ml/3 tbsp lemon juice

Details

Serves: 6

Method

1. Cut twelve 10 cm/4 in double thickness rounds from non-stick baking paper and shape each into a cone. Secure with masking tape.

2. Melt the chocolate over a saucepan of simmering water. Cool slightly, then spoon a little into each cone, swirling and brushing it to coat the paper evenly.

3. Support each cone point downwards in a cup or glass held on its side, to keep it level. Leave in a cool place until the cones are completely set. Unless it is a very hot day, do not put the cones in the fridge, as this may mar their appearance.

4. Make the sauce. Combine the apricot jam and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Melt over a gentle heat, stirring occasionally, then press through a sieve into a small bowl. Set aside to cool.

5. Beat the ricotta cheese in a bowl until softened, then beat in the cream, brandy and icing sugar. Stir in the lemon rind. Spoon the mixture into a piping bag. Fill the cones, then carefully peel off the non stick baking paper.

6. Spoon a pool of apricot sauce on to six dessert plates. Arrange the cones in pairs on the plates. Decorate with a scattering of pared lemon rind strips and serve immediately.

Related food category:

• Dessert