why make this recipe
Classic Cherry Delight is a delicious dessert that combines creamy textures with the sweet and tangy flavor of cherries. It’s perfect for family gatherings, celebrations, or just a sweet treat after dinner. This dessert is easy to make and can impress anyone, making it ideal for both novice and experienced cooks. Plus, it’s no-bake, which means you’ll save time and avoid turning on the oven!
how to make Classic Cherry Delight
Ingredients:
- 200g digestive biscuits (or speculoos)
- 100g melted butter
- 250g mascarpone
- 200g fresh cheese (Philly style)
- 100g powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 250ml whole liquid cream (well cold)
- 400g dried cherries (fresh or canned)
- 100g sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (maïzena)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 100ml water
Directions:
- Start by reducing the biscuits into thin crumbs. You can use a mixer or crush them with a pastry roll if you prefer.
- Mix the biscuit crumbs with melted butter until it has a sandy texture.
- Spread this mixture into the bottom of a 20 cm hinged mold and press down firmly. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow it to firm up.
- In a bowl, whisk together the mascarpone, fresh cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until you have a smooth mixture.
- In another bowl, whip the cold liquid cream until stiff peaks form. Then, gently fold it into the cheese mixture using a spatula.
- Pour the cream mixture over the chilled biscuit base and smooth the surface. Place in the fridge for at least 2 hours to set.
- In a saucepan, heat the cherries with sugar and lemon juice over medium heat.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water until smooth, then add this to the cherries.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly until it thickens (about 5 minutes). Allow it to cool completely before pouring it over the vanilla cream.
- Chill for 1 more hour before serving.
- When ready, delicately slice the dessert, and you can decorate with fresh cherries and chocolate chips if you like. Serve chilled and enjoy!
how to serve Classic Cherry Delight
Classic Cherry Delight is best served cold. You can plate individual slices with a sprinkle of chocolate chips or a few fresh cherries on top for an extra touch. It’s a great dessert after a meal or as a treat during special occasions.
how to store Classic Cherry Delight
You can store Classic Cherry Delight in the fridge. Cover it well to keep it fresh. It should stay good for about 3-4 days. Just be sure to slice it only when you’re ready to serve to keep the edges nice and clean.
tips to make Classic Cherry Delight
- Make sure your cream is very cold to achieve the best whipping results.
- For extra flavor, you can add a bit of almond extract to the cheese mixture.
- If you prefer, you can substitute the cherries with other fruits such as strawberries or blueberries.
variation
You can create variations of Classic Cherry Delight by changing the fruit topping. Use mixed berries, mango, or even a chocolate sauce if you want to mix it up. You can also try different types of biscuits for the crust for a unique taste.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?
A1: Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before cooking.
Q2: How long does this dessert need to set?
A2: It needs to set in the fridge for at least 2 hours, but for the best results, let it chill for 3-4 hours.
Q3: Can I make this dessert a day ahead?
A3: Absolutely! Classic Cherry Delight stores well in the fridge, making it a great make-ahead dessert for parties or gatherings.
