Lemon Zest Gelatin Delight

This delightful lemon zest gelatin dessert is a refreshing treat perfect for any occasion. The combination of lemon-flavored biscuits and wafers offers a delicate, citrusy flavor, while the smooth texture of gelatin and cream provide a luscious mouthfeel. Light and creamy, this dessert is complemented by a hint of fresh lemon zest and a burst of sweetness from berries and jam. It is simple to prepare and requires no baking, making it an ideal chilled dessert for warm weather. You can customize the filling with your favorite jam or add extra chocolate for a richer taste. A balance of flavors and textures ensures each bite is satisfying and refreshing. This versatile dish can easily be adapted to suit your taste preferences. It makes a beautiful and delicious addition to any dessert table.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

180 g lemon-flavored biscuits
180 g lemon-flavored wafers
30 g gelatin
100 g butter
300 g cottage cheese
Jam to taste
500 ml heavy cream
Lemon zest
A handful of frozen berries
A chocolate candy or similar treat
50 g grated rye bread

Preparation Time

Total Time: 180 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Base: Grease a mold with butter to prevent sticking. Crush the lemon-flavored biscuits and wafers to form a crumbly mixture for the base.
Press Crust: Pour the crushed biscuits and wafers into the prepared mold and press firmly to form an even crust layer.
Melt Butter: Melt the butter and pour it over the pressed base. Press again with a spoon to ensure an even distribution. Let it set.
Mix Gelatin: Dissolve gelatin in cold water in two separate glasses. Allow it to soak, then place the glasses in boiling water until the gelatin completely dissolves.
Prepare the Cottage Cheese: Mash the cottage cheese until smooth, setting it aside for later.
Whip Cream: Whip half of the heavy cream with a bit of sugar until light and fluffy. Add lemon zest and a spoonful of jam.
Incorporate Gelatin: Gradually stir in the dissolved gelatin into the whipped cream mixture before it sets. Pour this mixture over the prepared crust.
Add Mix-ins: Before the mixture sets, sprinkle in frozen berries and small pieces of chocolate candy for an extra treat.
Whip Remaining Cream: Whip the remaining cream with sugar. Gently fold in the mashed cottage cheese and grated rye bread.
Add Second Layer: Stir in the second glass of dissolved gelatin and pour this mixture over the first layer in the mold.
Garnish: Decorate with additional berries on top for a beautiful presentation.
Chill: Place the dessert in the refrigerator to chill and set completely, which will take several hours.

Tips

Substitution: You can use any flavor of jam or even omit it if you prefer a more neutral taste.
Gelatin: Ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved to prevent lumps in your dessert.
Crust Variation: For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free biscuits.
Extra Zing: Add extra lemon zest for a more pronounced citrus flavor.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving
Protein: 8 g
Fats: 30 g
Carbs: 42 g

Variations

Vegan: Use agar-agar instead of gelatin and coconut cream in place of heavy cream.
Low-Sugar: Opt for sugar-free jam and reduce the amount of sugar when whipping the cream.
Dairy-Free: Substitute cottage cheese with a dairy-free version and heavy cream with a non-dairy substitute.

Serving Suggestions

Pairings: Serve with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
Garnishes: Top with fresh mint leaves or a dusting of powdered sugar for added elegance.

Best Places

Patisserie Valerie - Renowned for its exquisite pastries and delightful ambiance. Location: 44 Theobalds Rd, London, UK.
Café Landtmann - A charming Viennese café offering traditional desserts. Location: Universitätsring 4, Vienna, Austria.
La Glacerie - Known for its unique and flavorful dessert creations. Location: 13 Rue du Bac, Paris, France.
Café Central - An iconic café serving classic Austrian desserts. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
Pastisseria Escribà - Famous for its decorative cakes and delicious treats. Location: Gran Via de Les Corts Catalanes, 546, Barcelona, Spain.
Demel - A historic café and chocolatier with luxurious sweets. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, Vienna, Austria.
Cafe Sacher - Famous for its original Sachertorte. Location: Philharmoniker Str. 4, Vienna, Austria.
Pasticceria Marchesi - A splendid historical pastry shop. Location: Via Santa Maria alla Porta 11/a, Milan, Italy.
Ladurée - Offers exquisite French macarons and pastries. Location: 75 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, Paris, France.
Café Gerbeaud - Known for traditional Hungarian desserts. Location: Vörösmarty tér 7, Budapest, Hungary.