Stone fruits

Baked Stone Fruit - A Sweet and Aromatic Delight

Do you dream of a dessert that combines the flavors of fresh fruits with a deliciously light and crispy crust? Your search is over! The stone fruit recipe is not only simple to prepare, but also a feast for the senses. It is a dessert that brings a touch of nostalgia, reminding us of warm summer days when fruits were at their peak flavor.

Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15-20 minutes
- Baking time: 25-30 minutes
- Total time: 45-50 minutes
- Servings: 6-8 servings

Ingredients
To create this delicious dessert, you will need the following ingredients:

For the fruits:
- 3 medium pears
- 4 apricots
- 250 g raspberries
- 250 g blueberries
- 250 g blackberries
- 6 tablespoons of sugar
- 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar

For the dough:
- 110 g butter (at room temperature)
- 225 g flour
- 125 g buttermilk or yogurt
- 70 g sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt

Nutritional Information
This recipe is not only delicious but also full of nutrients. Fresh fruits are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, while butter and flour add energy elements. Each serving contains approximately 250 calories, depending on the fruits chosen and the amount of sugar used.

Techniques and Tips for a Perfect Dessert

1. Choosing the Fruits: Seasonal fruits are the best for this recipe. You can experiment with various combinations, such as strawberries, peaches, nectarines, or even rhubarb. The secret is to have about a kilogram of fruit to achieve the perfect consistency.

2. Caramelizing: Be careful when caramelizing the sugar with balsamic vinegar. The vinegar not only adds a note of acidity that balances the sweetness but also gives it a sophisticated flavor.

3. Preheating the Oven: Make sure the oven is preheated to 190 degrees Celsius before placing the dish inside for even baking.

4. Dough Texture: The dough should have a slightly grainy texture, so don’t knead it too much. A few lumps are perfect for adding a rustic touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Fruits
- Start by washing all the fruits well under cold running water. Then, let them drain.
- Peel the pears, remove the core, and slice them. Similarly, slice the apricots, removing the pits.
- If desired, you can leave some fruits whole for a more rustic look.

Step 2: Caramelizing the Sugar
- In a saucepan, add the 6 tablespoons of sugar and the 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar. Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- After a few minutes, the sugar will turn into a golden syrup. This is the moment to add all the sliced fruits. Let them soften for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to coat them evenly with the syrup.

Step 3: Preparing the Dough
- In a bowl, beat the butter with the flour and a pinch of salt until you achieve a breadcrumb-like texture.
- Add the baking powder and sugar, then incorporate the buttermilk or yogurt. Mix gently until it becomes a smooth dough, but do not over-knead.

Step 4: Assembling the Dessert
- Press the dough into small pieces over the caramelized fruits, leaving a little space between them, as the dough will rise during baking.
- Sprinkle a little granulated sugar on top of the dough to achieve a golden and crispy crust.

Step 5: Baking
- Place the dish in the preheated oven at 190 degrees Celsius and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the dough becomes golden and crispy.

Serving and Suggestions
The baked stone fruit dessert is served warm, straight from the oven. You can pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of cream. The combination of warm fruit flavors with refreshing ice cream is simply divine!

Creative Variations
- Spiced Fruits: You can add cinnamon or vanilla to the dough for a more aromatic flavor.
- Honey Glaze: Before serving, you can drizzle the dessert with honey for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Vegan Options: Substitute the butter with vegan margarine and use almond or soy milk.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen fruits?
Yes! Frozen fruits can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before caramelizing.

2. How can I store leftovers?
The dessert keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is best enjoyed fresh.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
With a few modifications, such as using vegan margarine and plant-based milk, it can be easily adapted.

In conclusion, the baked stone fruit recipe is a versatile dessert, full of flavor and beauty. It is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself and your family. So put on your apron and let’s enjoy the magic of cooking together!