Pandoro Stars with Zabaglione Cream

Here’s how to prepare delicious Pandoro Stars with Zabaglione Cream.

Ingredients

  • Sliced pandoro (quantity based on the number of stars desired)
  • 4 egg yolks
  • 100 g granulated sugar
  • 120 ml Marsala (or other sweet wine of your choice)
  • Whipped cream (optional for garnish)
  • Cocoa powder or powdered sugar (for decoration)

Preparation

  1. Cut the pandoro into slices about 2 cm thick, then cut out star shapes from the pandoro slices using a star-shaped cutter.

  2. Arrange the stars on a baking tray and bake them at 180 °C for a few minutes, until they become lightly golden and crispy. Then let them cool.

  3. Meanwhile, prepare the zabaglione. Place the egg yolks and sugar in a heat-resistant bowl and whisk until you obtain a frothy and lightened mixture.

  4. Add the Marsala to the yolks and continue whisking.

  5. Transfer the bowl to a saucepan with simmering water (double boiler) and continue whisking the mixture. Cook the zabaglione, stirring constantly, until it reaches a thick and creamy consistency. Be careful not to cook it too quickly or at too high a temperature to avoid curdling the yolks.

  6. Once ready, remove the zabaglione from the double boiler and let it cool, stirring occasionally.

  7. When it is well chilled, you can whip the cream to stiff peaks (optional) and gently fold it into the zabaglione if you want a fluffier cream.

  8. Arrange the pandoro stars on a serving plate and top them with the zabaglione cream. If you prefer, you can accompany each star with a spoonful of whipped cream.

  9. Finally, decorate with a dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar to taste.

Fun Facts

Zabaglione is a classic cream of Italian cuisine dating back to the Renaissance. Originally it was drunk as a tonic and was thought to have healing properties. Zabaglione cream traditionally accompanies sweets and desserts, but its alcoholic version is also enjoyed as an after-dinner drink. Pairing zabaglione with pandoro, the typical Christmas sweet from Verona, creates an exquisite combination for the holidays or to make a sweet occasion special.