Chocolate Hazelnut Mascarpone Cups (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Cookie Crust

01 - 12 chocolate crème sandwich cookies
02 - 30 grams unsalted butter, melted

→ Chocolate Hazelnut Mascarpone Cream

03 - 250 grams Mascarpone cheese, softened
04 - 200 grams chocolate hazelnut spread
05 - 30 grams powdered sugar
06 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
07 - 240 milliliters heavy cream

# Instructions:

01 - Pulse chocolate crème sandwich cookies in a food processor until finely ground. Transfer crumbs to a bowl and blend thoroughly with melted unsalted butter.
02 - Divide the cookie mixture evenly into six small glasses. Press down firmly with a spoon or tart tamper to form a compact base. Refrigerate while preparing the cream.
03 - In the bowl of a stand mixer with paddle attachment or a large mixing bowl, beat together Mascarpone cheese, chocolate hazelnut spread, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
04 - In a separate bowl, whisk the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
05 - Gently fold one third of the whipped cream into the Mascarpone mixture to lighten. Carefully incorporate the remaining whipped cream until fully blended and airy.
06 - Spoon the chocolate hazelnut Mascarpone cream over the prepared cookie bases in each glass. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until thoroughly chilled.
07 - Serve chilled, with optional garnish such as chocolate shavings, toasted hazelnuts, or fresh mint leaves.

# Notes:

01 - Dairy ingredients should reach room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth, lump-free cream.