Pistachio Chocolate Parfait

Pistachio Chocolate Parfait

Ingredients:

**For the Pistachio Cream:**
– 1 cup mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup pistachio paste
– 1 tsp vanilla extract

**For the Chocolate Ganache:**
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 4 oz dark chocolate, chopped

**For the Assembly:**
– 1/2 cup crushed pistachios
– 1/2 cup chocolate shavings or chocolate chips
– Whipped cream for topping
– Additional crushed pistachios for garnish
– Chocolate sauce for drizzling

Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Pistachio Cream:**
– In a large mixing bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese until smooth.
– Add the heavy cream, powdered sugar, pistachio paste, and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is smooth and thickened. Set aside.

2. **Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:**
– In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
– Remove from heat and add the chopped dark chocolate. Let it sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy. Allow the ganache to cool slightly.

3. **Assemble the Parfait:**
– In small dessert jars or glasses, add a layer of crushed pistachios at the bottom.
– Pipe or spoon a layer of the pistachio cream over the crushed pistachios.
– Drizzle a layer of the chocolate ganache over the pistachio cream.
– Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the jars, ending with a layer of pistachio cream.

4. **Top and Garnish:**
– Top each parfait with a dollop of whipped cream.
– Drizzle with chocolate sauce.
– Sprinkle additional crushed pistachios and chocolate shavings or chips on top.

5. **Chill and Serve:**
– Chill the parfaits in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Enjoy your delightful Pistachio Chocolate Parfait!