Dessert with cookies and cherries

Dessert with Cookies and Cherries

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooling time: 3 hours
Total time: 3 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Who doesn't love a dessert that combines crunchy cookies with juicy cherries? This cookie and cherry dessert recipe is a savory and unique twist on the classic cookie salami, sure to bring a touch of joy to any table. Whether you're a cooking enthusiast or a kitchen novice, this simple and quick recipe will impress you with its decadent taste and attractive appearance.

The history of the cookie and cherry dessert is tied to the tradition of combining simple ingredients to create savory dishes. Cookies are often the base of desserts, while cherries add a fruity note, perfect for balancing the sweetness. This dessert is not only delicious but also an excellent way to use seasonal cherries.

Ingredients:
- 500 g plain cookies (you can use digestive or cocoa cookies for a more intense flavor)
- 200 g chocolate (choose a quality chocolate with at least 50% cocoa)
- 250 ml liquid cream
- 50 ml milk
- 2 tablespoons sugar (you can adjust the amount to your taste)
- 2 tablespoons cocoa (optional, for a more intense flavor)
- 200 g butter (make sure it's at room temperature for better integration)
- 2 tablespoons cherry liqueur (Cherry Angelli or any other preferred fruit liqueur)
- Cherries (about 200 g, fresh or from a jar, pitted)
- Chocolate sauce (for decoration)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the cookies: Start by crushing the cookies. You can use a mixer to turn them into fine crumbs, or you can do this manually by placing the cookies in a bag and rolling them with a rolling pin. Make sure they are well crushed to easily mix with the other ingredients.

2. Preparing the cherries: If using fresh cherries, wash them well and pit them. Mix them with a tablespoon of sugar and let them sit for a few minutes to soften and release their flavors. If using canned cherries, drain them well.

3. Melting the chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, add the chopped chocolate, liquid cream, milk, sugar, butter, and cocoa. Place the bowl over a pot of boiling water (double boiler) and stir constantly until everything is combined into a smooth and creamy mixture. Finally, add the cherry liqueur and mix again.

4. Combining the ingredients: Take the crushed cookies and add them to the bowl with the chocolate mixture. Mix well with a spatula or wooden spoon until the cookies are completely coated with the chocolate mixture.

5. Assembling the dessert: Prepare a loaf pan (or a dessert mold) and line the inside with plastic wrap for easier removal of the dessert. Start by placing a layer of cookie mixture, followed by a layer of cherries. Continue with another layer of cookies, then press down gently to compact the dessert.

6. Cooling: Cover the pan with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours, or until the dessert is well set. This step is essential to achieve the perfect texture.

7. Serving: Once the dessert has set, carefully invert it onto a serving platter. Remove the plastic wrap and decorate with chocolate sauce and fresh cherries. You can also add a few mint leaves for a more elegant look.

Practical tips:
- For an even more intense flavor, you can add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of salt to the chocolate mixture.
- If you don't have cherry liqueur, you can use cherry juice or another fruit liqueur to adapt the recipe to your taste.
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting the preparation for better mixing.

Nutritional benefits:
This cookie and cherry dessert offers a combination of carbohydrates from the cookies, healthy fats from the butter and chocolate, as well as antioxidants from the cherries. Cherries are known for their health benefits, helping to reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use whole grain cookies? Yes, whole grain cookies add extra fiber and a slightly different but delicious flavor.
- Is this dessert suitable for vegans? You can adapt the recipe using vegan cookies, dark chocolate, and margarine instead of butter.
- How long can it be stored in the refrigerator? The dessert can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, but it is best enjoyed in the first few days after preparation.

This cookie and cherry dessert is perfect for any occasion, from a family dinner to a party with friends. You can serve it alongside vanilla ice cream or a glass of sweet wine for a delightful culinary experience. Feel free to personalize it by adding nuts or other seasonal fruits, and enjoy every bite!