Cappuccino Panna Cotta, Coconut and Dark Chocolate Ganache, Almond Biscotti by Matt Smith at The Scullery in Finnieston

This is a really delicious dessert that is on the menu at The Scullery just now. It’s the perfect combination of rich and decadent, without being too heavy. It sounds and looks complicated but is very simple to make. As the dish can be made the night before it is great for dinner parties!

Ingredients:

(Serves 6-8)

Panna Cotta:

250ml double cream

250ml whole milk

3 sheets of gelatine

½ vanilla pod

1oz castor sugar

2tsp decaffeinated coffee granules

Ganache:

150ml double cream

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp unsalted butter

150g dark chocolate

100g desiccated coconut

Biscotti:

145g blanched whole almonds

1 tsp baking powder

pinch of salt

260g plain flour

3 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

Method:

  1. For the panna cotta soak the gelatine in cold water for 10 mins.
  2. Add all the other ingredients to a pot, bring to a simmer and remove from the heat.
  3. Remove the gelatine and squeeze out the excess water. Then whisk it into the hot liquid.
  4. Pass through a fine sieve then pour into ramekins or cocktail glasses. Chill for 3-4 hours until set.
  5. For the Ganache, add all the ingredients to a pan and bring to a gentle simmer. Remove from heat and whisk until everything has melted. Pour onto a flat tray and leave to set. Once set cut into small pieces and roll in desiccated coconut.
  6. For the Biscotti, preheat oven to 180° and toast the almonds for 8-10 mins. Let cool, then chop coarsely.
  7. Reduce oven to 150°. In a bowl beat the eggs and vanilla, then set aside.
  8. In another bowl combine flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Beat until blended. Gradually add the egg mixture and beat until a dough forms, adding the almonds halfway through.
  9. On a lightly floured surface roll the dough into a log around 35cm long and 8cm wide. Transfer to a baking tray, lined with greaseproof paper, and bake for 35 mins (at 150°).
  10.  Remove from the oven, place on a wire rack for 10 mins then cut into ½ inch thick biscuits. Place on a baking tray, lined with greaseproof paper and bake for 10 mins on each side until firm.

To serve, use the picture as inspiration.

In association with Taste Communications.

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