In the realm of desserts, there's nothing quite like a sweet treat that combines the nostalgia of childhood with the flavors of summer. This easy summer finisher is a remarkable mashup that brings together the best of both worlds. Wishbone Kitchen creator Meredith Hayden has taken her favorite dessert from childhood — macerated berries, angel food cake, and whipped cream — and merged it with the beloved peaches - and - cream pie from Long Island’s Briermere Farms bakery.
Let's start by exploring the components of this delightful dessert. Macerated berries are a classic summer staple. The process of maceration involves gently softening the berries in a mixture of sugar and sometimes a splash of liqueur or lemon juice. As the sugar dissolves, it draws out the natural juices of the berries, creating a sweet and tangy syrup that enhances the flavor of the fruit. Strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries are all excellent choices for maceration. Their vibrant colors and juicy textures make them not only delicious but also visually appealing.
Angel food cake, with its light and airy texture, is the perfect base for this dessert. Made primarily with egg whites, sugar, and flour, it is a low - fat alternative to many other cakes. Its neutral flavor allows it to complement the bold flavors of the macerated berries and the creamy whipped cream. When you bite into a slice of angel food cake, it practically melts in your mouth, providing a delicate contrast to the juicy berries.
Whipped cream adds a luxurious and creamy element to the dessert. It can be made simply by beating heavy cream with a bit of sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. The coolness of the whipped cream balances the warmth of the freshly baked peaches - and - cream pie elements. It also adds a smooth texture that ties all the components together.
Now, let's turn our attention to the peaches - and - cream pie from Briermere Farms. This pie is a local legend on Long Island. The peaches used in the pie are typically fresh, juicy, and full of flavor. They are cooked down with a bit of sugar and spices to create a sweet and slightly tart filling. The cream in the pie adds a rich and velvety texture, making it a decadent treat.
To create this summer finisher, you can start by making the macerated berries. Wash and hull the berries, then place them in a bowl. Sprinkle them with sugar and a splash of lemon juice. Let them sit at room temperature for about an hour, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the berries have released their juices.
Next, prepare the whipped cream. Pour the heavy cream into a chilled bowl and add a tablespoon of sugar and a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat the cream with an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form. Set the whipped cream aside in the refrigerator.
Slice the angel food cake into thick pieces. You can use a store - bought angel food cake or make your own from scratch. Place the cake slices on individual plates or in a large serving dish.
Take the macerated berries and spoon some of the berries and their syrup over the cake slices. Then, add a dollop of whipped cream on top of the berries. You can also add a few extra berries for decoration.
For the peaches - and - cream pie element, you can either use a pre - made pie from Briermere Farms or make your own. If you're making it at home, you'll need to make a pie crust, prepare the peach filling, and bake it in the oven. Once the pie is cooled, cut it into slices and place a slice next to the cake and berry combination on each plate.
This dessert is not only delicious but also customizable. You can adjust the amount of sugar in the macerated berries according to your taste preferences. You can also experiment with different types of berries or add other fruits like cherries or mangoes. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even add a drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel sauce on top of the whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.
In conclusion, this summer finisher is a perfect blend of childhood memories and summer flavors. It's easy to make, visually appealing, and sure to be a hit at any summer gathering. Whether you're enjoying it on a warm summer evening with friends and family or as a special treat for yourself, this dessert is a true delight.
