This article was written for Annabel & Grace, which is now part of Rest Less.
No, I’m not talking Angel Delight (although I have to confess it is a guilty pleasure of mine). As busy women, we don’t want to be stuck in the kitchen for any longer than absolutely necessary. So I thought a few mega fast instant dessert recipes might come in handy. Actually they are not really recipes, more sweet treat cheats… and instant hits!
STRAWBERRIES & BUBBLES
All you need is a few hulled strawberries, a sprinkle of caster sugar and, when you are ready to serve, a few splashes of sparking Rose wine. Raspberries would work equally well… just need to ensure your soft fruit is fragrantly ripe.
Adding a few buttery biscuits to the side of this simple but elegant pudding adds texture and a softness to complement the acidity in the fruit and alcohol.
FRESH FIGS WITH LEMON-SCENTED MASCARPONE & HONEY
This dessert elevates the humble fig to another level. Delicious on their own, the addition of mascarpone and honey makes this one to remember.
In a small bowl, stir together the mascarpone, lemon zest, lemon juice, and nutmeg. Cut the figs in half lengthwise. Top each fig half with a scant teaspoon of the mascarpone filling. Arrange on a serving plate and drizzle with honey. For six people, you’ll need 12 ripe figs, 3-4 tbspns mascarpone, 1/4 tsp of finely grated lemon zest, a few drops of lemon juice, freshly grated nutmeg and runny honey for drizzling.
AFFOGATO
An affogato (more traditionally known as affogato al caffe) is an Italian coffee-based dessert. Simply place a scoop of vanilla ice cream into a cup or glass and serve with a freshly made espresso. Everyone then just pours their hot coffee over their ice cream and, Bob’s your uncle, a meltingly moreish combo.
SPEEDY MANGO PUDDING
Tempt them with this tropical treat. You need one large ripe peeled and diced mango which you whizz to a puree in a food processor. Add 6 scoops of vanilla ice cream and 2 tbsps double cream and whizz again. Spoon into bowls and drizzle half a passionfruit over each. Serves 6.
PAPAYA, LIME & CHILLI
Super simple but gosh this one gets your tastebuds dancing! If you haven’t tried this absolutely scrummy combo of papaya, lime, chilli and soft brown sugar – then you haven’t lived. It is quite simply heaven on a plate. Serves 2: one ripe papaya, juice of a fresh lime, 2 tspn dark brown sugar & finely chopped chilli to taste. Cut the papaya in half and scoop out the black seeds with a spoon. Into each half, pour the lime juice, half the sugar and sprinkle chilli to taste. That’s it!
DO YOU HAVE ANY FAVOURITE INSTANT DESSERTS? WHY NOT SHARE THEM IN THE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW THIS ARTICLE. THANK YOU.