Before diving into the delicious depths of Little Caesars Chocolate Ravioli, think about serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance its sweetness.
A sprinkle of crushed nuts, like almonds or hazelnuts, can add crunch and nuttiness. Fresh berries—like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries—add a contrasting tartness that elevates the dish.
Drizzle some raspberry coulis or a rich chocolate sauce over the top to take it over the top. And let’s not forget about a cup of espresso or a rich cup of hot chocolate to accompany the ravioli; it rounds out the experience beautifully.
I still remember the first time I stumbled upon Little Caesars Chocolate Ravioli. The idea of a savory pizza chain reinventing the classic pasta dish was surprising. My initial reaction was a mix of intrigue and skepticism.
Can a pizza place really pull off something as refined as chocolate ravioli? Fast forward to my first bite. The experience changed my perception entirely.
Ravioli, traditionally filled with cheese or meat, received a sweet twist that sparked my curiosity. Chocolate in pasta?
Yes, please! And if you’re anything like me, curious about this unexpected culinary combination, then you’re in for a treat.
In this post, I’ll guide you through what makes Little Caesars Chocolate Ravioli irresistible, share a homemade version, and answer some burning questions you may have along the way.
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What is Little Caesars Chocolate Ravioli?
Little Caesars Chocolate Ravioli isn’t your typical dish. Think of the classic ravioli shape but filled with velvety chocolate.
This sweet rendition breathes new life into the beloved Italian pasta. Little Caesars achieved this by using familiar ingredients, but with a creative twist.
Typically found in their dessert lineup, these chocolate ravioli are deep-fried and sprinkled with powdered sugar.
The result? A warm, crispy exterior that gives way to a luscious chocolate filling. You’re not biting into a heavy dessert; instead, it offers a light sweetness that’s simply delightful.
How Does It Taste?
Imagine the crunch of a perfectly fried shell, followed by the rich, melted chocolate oozing out. If you’re a fan of desserts that bridge the gap between sweet and savory, you’ll appreciate this unique flavor profile.
Each bite is a dance of textures—the crispy exterior meets the smooth, rich filling, making it a delightful experience.
The sweetness isn’t overwhelming; it’s balanced well by the dusting of powdered sugar that decorates the plate. If desserts could have a personality, this one would be jovial, inviting, and just a tad mischievous.
Why You’ll Love This?
There are several reasons why this dish deserves a spot on your dessert table. First, it’s incredibly fun to eat. The fun shapes, coupled with warm chocolate, create a joyful experience.
Next, it’s perfect for gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a surprise dish, this ravioli is an eye-catcher. Moreover, you can easily adapt this recipe with different fillings or sauces.
Want a peanut butter twist? Go for it! Love spices? Add a hint of cinnamon. The possibilities make this dessert a versatile party star.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 ounce Tia Maria liqueur
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 5 ounces dark chocolate (semi-sweet), chopped into chunks
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (35% fat)
- 1 teaspoon unsalted butter
Ravioli
- 1/2 cup golden syrup
- 16 ounces white chocolate, broken into pieces
- A pinch of sea salt
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a saucepan over low heat, combine heavy cream and butter. Stir occasionally until the butter melts entirely.
Next, add semi-sweet dark chocolate to the pot. Continue to stir until the chocolate melts and the mixture becomes smooth. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Now, add vanilla extract and Tia Maria liqueur to the mix. Stir until fully incorporated. Remove from heat and let it cool.
Step 2: Create the Shell
For the ravioli dough, melt the white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl for about 30 seconds at a time, stirring after each interval until just melted.
Once melted, add golden syrup and stir until well combined. This creates a sweet, thick mixture that will serve as the ravioli’s outer layer.
Step 3: Assemble the Ravioli
On a clean surface, spread some parchment paper. Using a spoon or a piping bag, place small dollops of the chocolate filling on the parchment, making sure to leave enough space between each dollop.
Carefully scoop spoonfuls of the white chocolate mixture and gently place a round piece over each dollop of filling. Make sure they’re evenly sized.
Step 4: Seal the Ravioli
Using your fingers, carefully press the edges of the white chocolate layer against the filling, sealing it tightly. This prevents the delicious chocolate filling from oozing out during cooking.
Step 5: Fry the Ravioli
In a deep fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the sealed ravioli into the hot oil, a few at a time. Fry until they’re golden brown, which will take about 2-3 minutes.
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried ravioli to paper towels to drain the excess oil. Dust them with powdered sugar. Serve warm.
Tips On Making Little Caesars Chocolate Ravioli
- Choose Quality Chocolate: The chocolate is the star, so opt for high-quality options.
- Mind the Temperature: Ensure your oil is well-heated; if it’s too cool, the ravioli may absorb too much oil.
- Don’t Overfill: Less is more. Avoid overstuffing to ensure proper sealing.
- Seal Tightly: Press the edges firmly to prevent leaks during frying.
- Experiment with Flavors: Play around with extracts, spices, or different types of chocolate.
How Do You Store Little Caesars Chocolate Ravioli?
Storing chocolate ravioli is quite simple. If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container. They can stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 2-3 days.
To reheat, pop them in the oven for a few minutes or lightly fry them again. They can also be frozen, but make sure to separate layers with parchment paper before freezing.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Little Caesars Chocolate Ravioli?
There are many exciting alternatives you can explore for different flavors:
- Milk Chocolate: For those who prefer a sweeter taste, replace the semi-sweet chocolate with milk chocolate.
- Hazelnut Spread: Instead of chocolate filling, use a flavored spread for a nutty twist.
- Caramel Sauce: For an ooey-gooey dessert, caramel can replace the chocolate filling.
- Fruit Purees: Add a clean, fruity filling with pureed strawberries or raspberries.
- Nut Butters: Incorporate creamy almond or peanut butter for an exciting flavor change.
Little Caesars Chocolate Ravioli Recipe
Equipment
- saucepan
- Microwave-safe bowl
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 ounce Tia Maria liqueur
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 5 ounces dark chocolate semi-sweet, chopped into chunks
- 1/2 cup heavy cream 35% fat
- 1 teaspoon unsalted butter
Ravioli
- 1/2 cup golden syrup
- 16 ounces white chocolate broken into pieces
- A pinch of sea salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- In a saucepan over low heat, combine heavy cream and butter. Stir occasionally until the butter melts entirely.
- Next, add semi-sweet dark chocolate to the pot. Continue to stir until the chocolate melts and the mixture becomes smooth. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Now, add vanilla extract and Tia Maria liqueur to the mix. Stir until fully incorporated. Remove from heat and let it cool.
Step 2: Create the Shell
- For the ravioli dough, melt the white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl for about 30 seconds at a time, stirring after each interval until just melted.
- Once melted, add golden syrup and stir until well combined. This creates a sweet, thick mixture that will serve as the ravioli’s outer layer.
Step 3: Assemble the Ravioli
- On a clean surface, spread some parchment paper. Using a spoon or a piping bag, place small dollops of the chocolate filling on the parchment, making sure to leave enough space between each dollop.
- Carefully scoop spoonfuls of the white chocolate mixture and gently place a round piece over each dollop of filling. Make sure they’re evenly sized.
Step 4: Seal the Ravioli
- Using your fingers, carefully press the edges of the white chocolate layer against the filling, sealing it tightly. This prevents the delicious chocolate filling from oozing out during cooking.
Step 5: Fry the Ravioli
- In a deep fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the sealed ravioli into the hot oil, a few at a time. Fry until they’re golden brown, which will take about 2-3 minutes.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried ravioli to paper towels to drain the excess oil. Dust them with powdered sugar. Serve warm.
Notes
- Choose Quality Chocolate: The chocolate is the star, so opt for high-quality options.
- Mind the Temperature: Ensure your oil is well-heated; if it’s too cool, the ravioli may absorb too much oil.
- Don’t Overfill: Less is more. Avoid overstuffing to ensure proper sealing.
- Seal Tightly: Press the edges firmly to prevent leaks during frying.
- Experiment with Flavors: Play around with extracts, spices, or different types of chocolate.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the filling in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day or two ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator and bring it back to room temperature before using.
Is it possible to bake this ravioli instead of frying?
While frying gives the best crunch, you can bake them. Brush with a little melted butter and bake at 350°F (175°C) until golden, about 10-12 minutes.
Can I use gluten-free ingredients for the ravioli?
Absolutely! Switch to gluten-free flour for the shell, and ensure all chocolate and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Can children help make this recipe?
Yes! Kids can help with rolling the dough, filling the ravioli, and even sprinkling powdered sugar.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe generally yields about 12-15 ravioli, depending on dough thickness and filling size.
What if I don’t like chocolate?
No worries! Replace the chocolate filling with any preferred sweet filling, like fruit compotes or cream cheese mixtures for a delightful alternative.
Conclusion
Little Caesars Chocolate Ravioli is a delightful surprise that blends the unexpected with the familiar. It may come from a pizza place, but it has earned its place as a star dessert. Its delightful combination of textures and flavors will surely impress anyone you serve it to.
From preparation to serving, every step is a chance to infuse your personality into this dish. The beauty of cooking lies in experimentation.
Who knows?
You might create your own signature twist! With the recipe and insights provided, you’re well-equipped to take on this sweet challenge.
Give it a shot, and you might just find yourself surprising your family and friends with a delectable treat that’s sure to evoke smiles and happy faces!
