Spilling my own thunder

This recipe is not my original creation. Rather this is my improved version of two recipes, one I had found on the net and one from a book my mum-in-law gave me. I have combined the two by adding/increasing some ingredients while reducing some.I have made this a few times now. Shane just loves it, it doesn’t last long in the fridge.

Ingredients:

250 gm dark chocolate
3 large eggs, separated
1/4 cup white sugar (for a sweeter taste, add 2 tbsp)
1 1/4 cup cold thickened cream
3 tbsp Grand Marnier (available in small bottles @ 6.89/btl in Safeway or Coles liquor shop)
(The original recipe called for 1/4 c but I found it too strong)
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

Procedure:

Cut the chocolate and butter into small pieces and place in a bowl. Heat water (do not boil) and set bowl of mixed chocolate & butter on top of it to melt, stirring occasionally. When completely melted, remove from heat and beat or stir until smooth. Return to the heat and add egg yolks one at a time, stirring well after each one. Remove from heat.

In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peak forms. Add 2 tbsp of the sugar and beat until stiff. Would be wise to use an electric mixer when beating.

In another bowl, beat the cream until it becomes frothy. Add the remaining sugar, the Grand Marnier and the lemon juice and continue beating until it holds soft peaks.

Fold the egg whites in the chocolate mixture until no white specks appear. Gradually add the whipped cream and fold until well blended.

Transfer in small bowls and refrigerate until well chilled. I would recommend to wait at least 24 hours before eating so that the flavor has already settled.

Optional: top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings when serving.