How to Make It
Step 1: Make the Chocolate Layer
Heat ½ cup heavy cream in a small saucepan until just steaming (not boiling).
Pour it over the chocolate chips in a bowl. Let sit for 2–3 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy. Add butter and mix until fully melted.
Spoon the chocolate mixture into the bottom of serving glasses or a small dish. Spread evenly.
Place in the fridge for 20–30 minutes to firm up slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Coffee Cream
In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
In a separate bowl, beat mascarpone (or cream cheese) with powdered sugar, dissolved coffee, and vanilla until smooth.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the coffee mixture. Be light-handed — you want it airy and mousse-like.
Step 3: Assemble
Once the chocolate layer has slightly set:
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Spoon or pipe the coffee cream over the chocolate.
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Sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts on top.
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Add a tiny pinch of sea salt if you love that sweet-salty contrast.
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Finish with chocolate shavings or cocoa dusting if you’re feeling fancy.
Chill for at least 1–2 hours before serving so the layers fully set.
Pro Tips for Maximum Flavor
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Use strong coffee — weak coffee disappears into the cream.
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Lightly toast the peanuts in a dry pan for 2–3 minutes to intensify their flavor.
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For extra indulgence, add a thin layer of crushed chocolate cookies between layers.
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Want it boozy? Add a splash of coffee liqueur to the cream mixture.
Texture & Flavor Breakdown
First bite: smooth and creamy.
Then: bold coffee notes bloom.
Next: deep chocolate richness.
Finally: crunchy peanuts and a hint of salt.
It’s balanced. It’s indulgent. It’s the kind of dessert that makes people pause mid-bite and go, “Wait… this is really good.”
Make It Your Own
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Swap peanuts for hazelnuts for a mocha-hazelnut vibe.
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Use dark chocolate for a more intense flavor.
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Turn it into a frozen dessert by chilling longer for a semifreddo texture.
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Layer it into a larger dish for a sliceable version.
This creamy coffee and chocolate dessert with peanuts is proof that bold flavors can still feel soft and comforting. It’s rich but not overwhelming. Sweet but balanced. Elegant but easy.
And honestly? It pairs ridiculously well with an actual cup of coffee.
If you want, I can turn this into a no-bake cake version or a layered trifle for a party centerpiece.
