Crème de marrons—or chestnut cream—is a beloved French delicacy, known for its rich, nutty sweetness. While it’s often enjoyed simply spread on toast or mixed into yogurt, this versatile ingredient can be used in unexpected ways to elevate both sweet and savoury dishes. Here are some creative ways to incorporate chestnut cream into your cooking.
1. Swirl It into Cheesecake
Give your cheesecake a French twist by swirling crème de marrons into the batter before baking. Its natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the creamy texture, adding depth and a subtle nutty aroma.
2. Make a Chestnut Tiramisu
Replace the traditional coffee-soaked ladyfingers with ones lightly dipped in chestnut liqueur or milk, and mix crème de marrons into the mascarpone layer. The result? A decadent twist on the classic Italian dessert.
3. Use It in a Chocolate Lava Cake
Enhance your molten chocolate cake by adding a spoonful of crème de marrons in the center before baking. The warmth of the melted chocolate blends perfectly with the chestnut’s velvety texture, creating a luxurious surprise.
4. Add It to Whipped Cream or Mousse
For a light and airy treat, fold crème de marrons into whipped cream or a simple mascarpone mousse. Serve it on its own or as a topping for crêpes, waffles, or fruit salads.
5. Incorporate It into Savoury Dishes
Though mainly used in desserts, crème de marrons can also shine in savoury dishes. Try adding a spoonful to a butternut squash soup for a subtle sweetness or mixing it into a creamy sauce for roasted meats like duck or pork.
6. Make Chestnut Cream Ice Cream
Blend crème de marrons into a vanilla ice cream base for a uniquely French frozen dessert. Serve with caramelized nuts or a drizzle of dark chocolate for an elegant finish.
7. Bake It into a French Yule Log (Bûche de Noël)
For a festive treat, use crème de marrons as a filling for a bûche de Noël. Combine it with whipped cream or mascarpone and spread it over a sponge cake before rolling it up for a traditional Christmas dessert.
8. Pair It with Cheese
For a surprising combination, serve crème de marrons with fresh goat cheese or blue cheese on a cheese platter. The contrast between the sweet, nutty cream and the sharp, salty cheese creates a sophisticated flavour balance.
Crème de marrons is far more than just a spread—it’s an ingredient full of potential. Whether you’re baking, whipping up a dessert, or experimenting with savoury pairings, its unique taste can add a delightful touch to a wide range of recipes.
