Cherries and Blueberries With Frangelico Mascarpone
The scent of hazelnuts always transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. She’d have a stash of Frangelico hidden away, just for special occasions – or, more accurately, for adding a cheeky splash to her coffee while she “supervised” my baking. This dessert captures that same feeling of simple indulgence, the kind where good ingredients are allowed to shine, and a little bit of hazelnut liqueur elevates everything to something truly memorable. It’s summer in a bowl, with a sophisticated wink.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-30 minutes (standing time)
- Total Time: 30-40 minutes
- Servings: 3
- Yield: 3 servings
- Dietary Type: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 3 ounces mascarpone cheese
- 1 tablespoon Frangelico
- ½ tablespoon Splenda Sugar Blend for Baking, divided use (or 1 TBSP sugar)
- 1 tablespoon sugar-free strawberry jam (or regular or raspberry or cherry jam)
- ¾ cup cherries, pitted (and halved or quartered)
- ½ cup blueberries (or omit and increase the amount of cherries)
- 6 amaretti cookies, hand crumbled (they are small, about one inch in diameter)
Equipment Needed
- Small shallow bowl or glass (3)
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon
Instructions
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In a mixing bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, Frangelico, and half (¼ tablespoon) of the Splenda Sugar Blend for Baking (or ½ tablespoon of sugar), and the strawberry jam. Gently mix until well combined. Cover and refrigerate the mixture.
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In a separate bowl, combine the pitted cherries and blueberries with the remaining half (¼ tablespoon) of the Splenda Sugar Blend for Baking (or ½ tablespoon of sugar).
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Let the cherries and blueberries stand at room temperature for 20-30 minutes. This allows the berries to macerate slightly, releasing their juices and intensifying their flavors. Alternatively, if you prefer, you can chill the fruit mixture in the refrigerator during this time.
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To assemble the dessert, spoon the Frangelico mascarpone mixture into a small shallow bowl or glass.
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Top the mascarpone with the cherries and blueberries, arranging them artfully for visual appeal.
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Finally, sprinkle the crumbled amaretti cookies generously over the top.
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Serve immediately.
Expert Tips & Tricks
- Mascarpone Magic: Make sure your mascarpone is cold before you start. This will prevent it from becoming too soft and ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
- Liqueur Level: While Frangelico is the star here, don’t be afraid to experiment with other liqueurs. Amaretto or even a splash of Kirsch would also work beautifully.
- Sweetness Control: Adjust the amount of sweetener to your liking. Taste the fruit mixture before adding all of the Splenda or sugar. Remember that the jam and amaretti cookies also contribute to the overall sweetness.
- Amaretti Crunch: For optimal crunch, add the amaretti cookies just before serving. They can become soggy if added too far in advance.
- Berry Boost: If your berries are not as sweet as you’d like, a tiny pinch of salt can enhance their natural sweetness.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
Serve this delightful dessert immediately for the best texture and flavor. The contrasting temperatures and textures – cool, creamy mascarpone, juicy berries, and crunchy amaretti – are at their peak when freshly assembled.
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, be aware that the amaretti cookies will soften over time. It’s best to consume leftovers within 24 hours.
This dessert is not suitable for freezing, as the mascarpone cheese can change texture and become grainy upon thawing.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 127 kcal | 6% |
| Total Fat | 2g | 3% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Cholesterol | 49mg | 16% |
| Sodium | 33mg | 1% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 25g | 8% |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g | 6% |
| Sugars | 14g | – |
| Protein | 3g | 6% |
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.
Variations & Substitutions
- Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute the mascarpone with a plant-based cream cheese alternative. Kite Hill is a great option.
- Jam Swap: Get creative with your jam! Raspberry, cherry, or even a fig jam would add a unique twist.
- Nut-Free Zone: If you have a nut allergy, replace the amaretti cookies with crushed gluten-free graham crackers or vanilla wafers.
- Seasonal Fruit: Adapt the fruit to the season. Peaches, plums, or blackberries would be delicious substitutes.
- Citrus Zest: Add a touch of citrus zest (lemon, orange, or lime) to the mascarpone mixture for a brighter flavor.
- Wine Pairing: A sweet dessert wine, like Moscato d’Asti, would complement this dish beautifully.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
A: While the individual components can be prepared in advance, it’s best to assemble the dessert just before serving to prevent the amaretti cookies from becoming soggy.
Q: What if I don’t have Frangelico?
A: Amaretto or another nut-flavored liqueur can be substituted. Alternatively, a teaspoon of hazelnut extract can be added to the mascarpone mixture.
Q: Can I use frozen cherries and blueberries?
A: Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using. Frozen fruit may release more moisture, so the standing time is especially important.
Q: Can I use a different type of cookie?
A: Absolutely! Biscotti or even a crunchy shortbread cookie would also be delicious. Just make sure to crumble them into small pieces.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for someone with diabetes?
A: This recipe uses a sugar substitute, but it’s still important to consider the carbohydrate content of the fruit and cookies. Consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized dietary advice.
Final Thoughts
This Cherries and Blueberries with Frangelico Mascarpone is more than just a dessert; it’s an invitation to savor the simple joys of life. The combination of creamy mascarpone, juicy berries, and crunchy amaretti is a symphony of textures and flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. So, gather your ingredients, pour yourself a glass of something delightful, and create a moment of pure indulgence. Don’t hesitate to play around with different fruit combinations or liqueurs to find your perfect flavor profile. I’d love to hear about your creations and any variations you try!