Ripe Cherries with Galusti Cheese and Chocolate Sauce

Baked Cherries with Cheese and Dumplings with Chocolate Sauce

I invite you to discover a delicious recipe that combines the juicy flavors of cherries with creamy cheese and decadent chocolate sauce. This dessert is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a true visual feast, perfect for impressing guests at a dinner or for indulging yourself after a long day. Plus, it's a simple, quick recipe full of flavor!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 18 minutes
Total time: 38 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

- 12 wonton wrappers
- 4 ounces (about 113 g) cream cheese, at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 0.25 cup (about 60 ml) cherry pie filling
- 3 drops vanilla extract
- 0.5 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 2 ounces (about 56 g) semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 teaspoon water
- Sugar for sprinkling

A Brief History

Cheese and fruit-filled dumplings are a popular delicacy in many cultures, with deep roots in culinary tradition. They are often associated with festive meals and special occasions. The combination of sweet cheese and baked fruit not only provides a pleasant contrast of textures but also an explosion of flavors, making them a beloved dessert for all.

Step by Step

1. Preheat the oven
Start by preheating the oven to 190°C (375°F). Make sure it is well heated before placing the dumplings in, to achieve a perfectly crispy crust.

2. Prepare the baking sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier after baking.

3. Beat the cream cheese
In a large bowl, add the cream cheese and the 2 tablespoons of sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat them together for 2-3 minutes until creamy and smooth. Don’t forget to scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure you get an even texture.

4. Add the vanilla
Add the vanilla extract to the cheese mixture and gently mix with a spatula to incorporate the flavor.

5. Prepare the egg and cinnamon mixture
In a small bowl, mix the egg with 1 teaspoon of water. In another small bowl, combine the remaining sugar with the cinnamon.

6. Fill the wontons
Take a wonton wrapper and place it on a plate. Add about 2 teaspoons of the cheese mixture in the center, then place a teaspoon of the cherry pie filling on top. Brush the edges of the wrapper with the egg mixture.

7. Shape the dumplings
Fold the wrapper diagonally to form a triangle. Press the edges to seal the dumpling well. Place each dumpling on the baking sheet. Repeat the process with the remaining wrappers.

8. Bake
Brush the surface of each dumpling with the remaining egg mixture and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture on top. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until they are golden and crispy.

9. Prepare the chocolate sauce
While the dumplings are in the oven, prepare the chocolate sauce. In a heatproof bowl, add the chopped chocolate. In a small saucepan, heat the cream, without letting it boil. Pour the warm cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for a minute, then stir until melted and smooth.

10. Serve
Serve the dumplings warm, drizzled with chocolate sauce. They are delicious on their own, but the sauce adds an extra touch of decadence.

Practical Tips

- Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier blending. You can use flavored cream cheese for an interesting twist.
- Variations: Experiment with other fruit fillings, such as raspberries, blueberries, or apples, to diversify the dessert's flavor.
- Serving: These dumplings are excellent alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a glass of sweet wine.
- Calories and Nutritional Benefits: Each serving contains approximately 160 calories, with a good calcium content from the cheese. Cherries are rich in antioxidants, contributing to overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with ricotta or mascarpone cheese for a different texture.

- What if I don’t have wonton wrappers?
You can use pie dough, cut into squares, to create a similar effect.

- How can I store the dumplings?
They are best served immediately, but you can store them in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispness.

This recipe for baked cherries with cheese and dumplings with chocolate sauce will surely win you over! Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, the result will always be delicious and memorable. Enjoy!