Imagine a slice of heaven that combines the rustic charm of artisanal French baking with an irresistibly decadent chocolate twist. This Chestnut Bread isn't just another recipe—it's a culinary experience that will transform your ordinary baking routine into an extraordinary gastronomic journey. With its rich, nutty chestnut flour base and a luxuriously whipped brown butter chocolate ganache, this bread promises to be the showstopper at your next gathering or a sublime treat for your personal indulgence.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 70 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 1 cup chestnut flour
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup dark chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, browned
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together chestnut flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, milk, and melted butter until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; some small lumps are acceptable.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure even distribution.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The bread should be golden brown and slightly springy to the touch.
- While the bread is baking, prepare the brown butter chocolate whipped ganache. First, brown the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, swirling continuously until it turns a golden amber color and develops a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Place chopped dark chocolate in a heat-resistant bowl. Heat heavy cream until it just begins to simmer, then pour over the chocolate. Let sit for 2-3 minutes, then whisk until smooth.
- Slowly incorporate the browned butter into the chocolate mixture, whisking continuously to create a glossy ganache.
- Allow the ganache to cool to room temperature, then use an electric mixer to whip it until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Once the bread is completely cooled, spread the whipped ganache over the top, creating decorative swirls with an offset spatula.
- Slice and serve at room temperature. The bread can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Tips
- Flour Finesse: Sift your chestnut and all-purpose flours together to ensure a smooth, lump-free batter and achieve the most delicate texture.
- Butter Browning Technique: When browning butter, watch it carefully. The difference between perfectly browned and burnt is just seconds. Look for a golden amber color and nutty aroma.
- Ganache Whipping Secrets: Let your ganache cool completely to room temperature before whipping. This ensures the perfect light and fluffy texture.
- Mixing Mastery: When combining wet and dry ingredients, use a gentle folding technique. Overmixing can lead to a tough, dense bread.
- Storage Tip: For maximum freshness, store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature. The flavors will continue to develop and meld beautifully over the first couple of days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 120mg
