Delightful Layered Cookie Dessert

This layered cookie dessert is a quick and easy treat that combines the creamy richness of whipped cream with the fresh flavor of your favorite fruits. It's an ideal recipe for those who love a balance of sweetness and a touch of fruitiness in their desserts. The use of hot water allows the cookies to soften without breaking apart, creating the perfect texture. By incorporating chocolate shavings, the dessert gains an added layer of indulgence. It's a versatile dish that can be adapted with various types of cookies, fruits, and chocolate to suit individual preferences. This dessert is quick to prepare, making it perfect for spontaneous gatherings or an after-dinner treat. It requires minimal ingredients, which are often already on hand in most kitchens. Despite its simplicity, this dessert is sure to impress with its layered presentation. Best of all, it requires only 20 minutes to prepare and chill, making it a convenient option for any occasion.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• Cookies of your choice - about 150 grams
• Whipped cream - 200 ml
• Hot water - enough to soak the cookies
• Fruits of your choice - 100 grams, chopped
• Chocolate of your choice - for grating over the dessert

Preparation Time

• Total: 20 minutes (includes preparation and chilling time)
• Active: 10 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Begin by gathering all the required ingredients and tools, such as a mixing bowl and a grater.
2. Fill a shallow bowl with hot water. The water should be warm enough to soften the cookies but not too hot to handle.
3. Quickly dip each cookie in the hot water, ensuring it absorbs some moisture but does not break apart.
4. Arrange a layer of soaked cookies at the bottom of a serving dish, creating a uniform base.
5. Spread an even layer of whipped cream over the cookies, ensuring all cookies are sufficiently covered.
6. Chop your chosen fruits into small, bite-sized pieces for easy layering.
7. Place a layer of the chopped fruits over the whipped cream, making sure to cover the entire surface.
8. Use a grater to shave a generous amount of chocolate over the fruit layer, adding a touch of decadence.
9. Repeat the process by adding another layer of hot water-soaked cookies over the chocolate.
10. Continue layering with whipped cream, fruit, and chocolate until you've used all the ingredients or have achieved the desired height.
11. Once the final layer is complete, ensure the topmost layer is visually appealing with a few extra fruit pieces and chocolate shavings.
12. Place the dessert in the refrigerator to chill for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
13. Before serving, check the dessert for firmness; it should hold together well without being soggy.
14. For an extra touch, garnish with mint leaves or a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
15. Serve immediately and enjoy the blend of textures and flavors.

Tips

• **Use any variety of cookies** you like, such as butter cookies, graham crackers, or even ladyfingers.
• **Substitute fruits** according to what's in season or your taste preferences; berries and bananas are great choices.
• **Try different chocolate flavors** such as dark or white chocolate for added diversity.
• Ensure **minimal soaking** of cookies to prevent them from becoming too soggy.

Nutritions

Approximate values per serving:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 4g
• Fats: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 35g

Variations

• For a dairy-free version, use coconut whipped cream.
• Gluten-free cookies are available for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Add nuts like almonds or walnuts for a crunchy texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Pair with a light dessert wine like Moscato for an elegant finish to any meal.
• Garnish with a sprig of mint for a pop of color and freshness.

Best Places

• Pâtisserie Saint-Honoré - A delightful bakery known for its exquisite desserts. Location: 123 Rue de Rivoli, Paris, France.
• Café Sacher - Famous for its legendary chocolate cake. Location: Philharmonikerstraße 4, Vienna, Austria.
• Ladurée - Iconic for its pastries and sweets. Location: 75 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, Paris, France.
• Bubby's High Line - Known for its fresh, homemade desserts. Location: 73 Gansevoort Street, New York, USA.
• Zum Schwarzen Kameel - Elegant cafe with an array of desserts. Location: Bognergasse 5, Vienna, Austria.
• The Ivy - Offers an incredible dessert menu. Location: 1-5 West Street, London, UK.
• Café Central - Historic confectionery destination. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
• Le Meurice - A luxury destination for desserts. Location: 228 Rue de Rivoli, Paris, France.
• Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop - Specialty in chocolates and desserts. Location: 900 North Point Street, San Francisco, USA.
• Antico Caffè Greco - One of Rome's oldest cafes, offering fabulous desserts. Location: Via dei Condotti 86, Rome, Italy.