Mixed Berry and Cherry Dessert Delight

This delightful mixed berry and cherry dessert is a refreshing treat perfect for any occasion. Combining the tartness of cherries with a medley of strawberries, blackberries, and blueberries, this vibrant dish offers a balance of sweet and tangy flavors. It's an elegant dessert that can be served chilled, making it ideal for warm weather gatherings. The inclusion of red wine and cherry juice adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile, while the sugar provides just the right amount of sweetness. Thickened with cornstarch, this dessert has a unique and satisfying texture. Once cooled and chilled, it sets beautifully into a luscious dessert that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with cream or powdered sugar for an extra indulgent touch. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just craving a sweet treat, this recipe is sure to impress. Simple yet sophisticated, it's a testament to the beauty of combining fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 300 g mixed berries (strawberries, blackberries, blueberries)
• 300 g sour cherries
• 120 g sugar

Liquids

• 1/8 l dry red wine
• 1/8 l cherry juice

Thickener

• 2-3 tbsp cornstarch

Preparation Time

• Total: 25 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Sort through the berries, ensuring there are no stems or leaves left.
2. Rinse the cherries thoroughly, then remove the pits.
3. In a bowl, combine the mixed berries and cherries with the sugar. Let them sit for 15 minutes to allow the juices to release.
4. In a pot, mix the red wine and cherry juice together.
5. Place a strainer over a separate bowl and pour the berry and cherry mixture into it. Collect the juice in the bowl below.
6. Add this collected juice to the pot containing the wine and cherry juice mixture. Set aside a couple of tablespoons of this liquid.
7. Heat the liquid in the pot until it begins to boil.
8. Mix the reserved liquid with cornstarch until smooth, then gradually stir it into the boiling liquid.
9. Let the mixture run to a boil once more, ensuring it thickens evenly.
10. Add the berries and cherries to the pot and bring it back to a gentle simmer.
11. Once thoroughly mixed and slightly thickened, spoon the dessert into serving dishes.
12. Allow the dessert to cool at room temperature for a while.
13. After cooling, place the dessert in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours until chilled and properly set.
14. You can serve it chilled, accompanied by a splash of milk or a dollop of cream, or simply sprinkle with powdered sugar.
15. Enjoy this elegant dessert with family and friends.
16. Add a sprinkle of lemon zest for a hint of citrus flavor.
17. Ensure the cherries are ripe and the berries are fresh for maximum flavor.
18. Adjust the sugar according to your sweetness preference.
19. Use a good quality dry red wine to enhance the dish's depth.
20. Let it chill sufficiently for the best texture and flavor.

Tips

• Substitutions: Use honey as a natural sweetener for a healthier twist.
• Variations: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of vanilla extract for extra warmth and flavor.
• Technique: Use fresh fruit for the best taste, but frozen berries can be a convenient alternative.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 180 calories per serving
• Protein: 2g
• Fats: 0.5g
• Carbs: 44g

Variations

• Use white wine instead of red for a lighter dessert.
• Swap cherry juice with apple juice for a different fruit twist.
• Replace cornstarch with agar-agar for a vegetarian-friendly version.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a contrasting temperature and texture.
• Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve alongside shortbread cookies for added crunch.

Best Places

• Ladurée - Famous for its nostalgic French desserts. Location: 75 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, Paris, France.
• Cafe Sabarsky - Elegant Viennese-inspired cafe with delightful pastries. Location: 1048 5th Ave, New York, USA.
• Demel - Offers exquisite traditional Austrian sweets. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, Vienna, Austria.
• Conditori La Glace - Oldest confectionery in Denmark with a range of cakes. Location: Skoubogade 3, Copenhagen, Denmark.
• Pasticceria Marchesi - Milan's finest historical pastry shop. Location: Via Santa Maria alla Porta, Milan, Italy.
• Pierre Hermé Paris - Known for its luxurious macaroons and pastries. Location: 72 rue Bonaparte, Paris, France.
• Café de Flore - Iconic Parisian café serving delicious desserts. Location: 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris, France.
• Konditorei Vienna - Offers a taste of Austrian confectionery arts. Location: Stephansplatz 3, Vienna, Austria.
• Café Tortoni - Famous for its historic charm and rich desserts. Location: Av. de Mayo 825, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
• L'Éclair de Génie - Specialized in innovative eclairs. Location: 14 rue Pavée, Paris, France.