Curds and Cream Delight with Dried Fruits and Nuts

This delightful dessert combines creamy curds with the irresistible flavors of dried apricots, raisins, and almonds, offering an indulgent treat for special occasions or cozy family gatherings. The dessert is rich and smooth, enhanced by the subtle sweetness of vanilla and sugar, with a satisfying crunch from toasted almonds. It is prepared by gently folding together fresh curds, butter, and a luscious vanilla cream mixture, then layered with fruits and nuts for an added burst of flavor. The finished dish is chilled, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify, resulting in a creamy, dense texture. This recipe requires patience, as the dessert must be refrigerated for several hours, but the end result is truly worth the wait. Serve this dish with a garnish of grated chocolate or sweet edible crystals for an elegant touch. It is a versatile dessert that can be adapted with different nuts and dried fruits to suit your personal preferences. This creamy delight melds traditional techniques with modern flavors, making it an enduring favorite. Whether served as a festive centerpiece or a sweet after-dinner treat, it's sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 720 g curd (9% fat, full cream, preferably dry)
• 75 g dried apricots
• 30 g almonds (peeled)
• 30 g raisins
• 180 g butter
• 3 egg yolks
• 125 g sugar
• 125 g heavy cream
• 20 g vanilla sugar
• A pinch of salt

Garnishing

• Chocolate (for decoration)
• Sweet edible crystals (for decoration)

Preparation Time

• Total Time: Approximately 12 hours (Including 2 hours preparation and 10 hours refrigeration)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Select dry curd, as it forms the base of this dessert. If the curd is moist, consider draining it to achieve the desired texture.

2. Press Curd: Gently press the curd through a sieve, ensuring it is smooth and without lumps. Set aside once done.

3. Chop Additions: Dice the dried apricots and almonds (after removing peels). Raisins can be left whole. Feel free to substitute other nuts or dried fruits if desired.

4. Create Vanilla Cream Mixture: Begin with vanilla and egg base by pouring heavy cream into a saucepan. Add vanilla sugar and bring to a boil.

5. Mix Yolks, Sugar, and Salt: In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks with sugar and a pinch of salt until fluffy.

6. Incorporate Cream: Slowly pour the boiling cream into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to avoid cooking the eggs.

7. Thicken Mixture: Place this mixture over a hot water bath, stirring consistently for 2-3 minutes until it thickens, ensuring it remains smooth.

8. Cool Mixture: Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.

9. Combine Curd and Butter: In a large bowl, mix the softened butter with the pressed curd until creamy.

10. Add in Fruits and Nuts: Mix in the chopped apricots, almonds, and raisins to the curd mixture, stirring until evenly distributed.

11. Fold in Vanilla Cream: Gently incorporate the vanilla cream mixture into the curd mixture, folding until fully combined.

12. Line a Bowl: Take a bowl lined with a double layer of clean cheesecloth.

13. Transfer Mixture: Pour the prepared mixture into the lined bowl, covering the top with the cheesecloth.

14. Weigh Down: Place a plate on top and weigh it down with a small can or jar for pressure, and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours.

15. Unmold the Dessert: Once set, carefully remove the cheesecloth from the mold and place it onto a serving plate.

16. Decorate: Grate chocolate over the top for a luxurious look and add sweet crystal decorations for sparkle.

17. Serve: Once completely set, slice and serve chilled to enjoy the creamy, fruity goodness.

Tips

• Use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Adjust sweetness to taste, depending on the sugar content of your dried fruits.
• Experiment with different nuts or seasonal fruits to tailor the recipe to your preferences.
• Refrigeration is crucial**; ensure proper chilling time for ideal texture.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approx. 350 per serving
• Protein: 6g
• Fats: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 20g

Variations

• Substitute almonds with pecans or walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
• Add a splash of rum or brandy to the vanilla cream for an adult version.
• Use honey instead of sugar for a natural sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh mint sprig for added aroma.
• Serve alongside fresh berries to complement the dessert's sweetness.
• Accompany with a warm cup of herbal tea for a balanced palate experience.

Best Places

• Café Pushkin - Known for its historic atmosphere and European desserts. Location: Tverskoy Blvd, Moscow, Russia.
• Els Quatre Gats - A medley of art and sweet confections. Location: Carrer de Montsió, Barcelona, Spain.
• Demel - Austrian pastries par excellence with a regal touch. Location: Kohlmarkt, Vienna, Austria.
• Pasticceria Marchesi - A pioneer of fine Italian pastries. Location: Via Santa Maria, Milan, Italy.
• Café Central - A timeless coffee house with classic desserts. Location: Herrengasse, Vienna, Austria.
• Angelina - Renowned for its hot chocolate, perfect for pairing with pastries. Location: Rue de Rivoli, Paris, France.
• Café Savoy - Offers a robust yet delicate menu in a splendid setting. Location: Vítězná, Prague, Czech Republic.
• Konditorei Heinemann - Master of German sweets and treats. Location: Luegallee, Düsseldorf, Germany.
• Foucher - Perfect for discovering unusual yet delightful sweets. Location: Rue du Bac, Paris, France.
• Conditorei Schober - A unique fusion of Swiss delights. Location: Napfgasse, Zurich, Switzerland.