Recipe Information

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 3 minutes
• Total Time: 23 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy

What You’ll Need

Ingredients

• 3 egg yolks
• 500g mixed red fruits:
  • Strawberries
  • Raspberries
  • Red currants
  • Cherries
  • Blackberries
  • Blueberries
• 100g mascarpone cheese
• 100ml heavy cream (well-chilled)
• 80g almond powder
• 80g powdered sugar
• 25g vanilla sugar

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to grill mode at 250°C (482°F) with an oven rack positioned at the top.
2. In a bowl, mix the mascarpone cheese, egg yolks, powdered sugar, and almond powder until well combined.
3. Prepare the fruits by cleaning them. If necessary, cut the strawberries into quarters and remove the stems from the red currants. Mix them gently with the vanilla sugar.
4. Using a blender or by hand, whip the heavy cream to soft peaks.
5. Gently fold the whipped cream into the almond mixture using a spatula until you achieve a smooth texture.
6. Arrange the fruits in a baking dish.
7. Pour the cream mixture over the fruits, ensuring they are evenly covered.
8. Bake under the grill for about 3 minutes. Keep an eye on the gratin to ensure it is just warm and the fruits are barely cooked.

Notes

This dessert is best served warm, and you can adjust the fruits according to your preferences or seasonal availability.

Recipe Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a dash of lemon juice or zest to the fruit mixture. This will enhance the sweetness and give a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture.

Nutrition

Approximately 320 calories per serving (based on 4 servings).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use frozen fruits instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen fruits can be used, but make sure to thaw them beforehand and drain excess liquid to avoid a watery texture.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh.

3. Can I prepare this dessert in advance?

Yes, you can make the fruit layer and mascarpone mixture ahead of time and assemble just before baking.

4. What can I serve with the gratin?

This dessert pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or some whipped cream for extra indulgence.

5. Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?

No, this recipe contains dairy and eggs. However, you could experiment with plant-based alternatives like coconut cream, vegan cream cheese, and egg replacements.