This Creamy Mandarin Dessert is a quick and easy treat made with fresh mandarins, velvety cream, and a hint of citrus zest. Ready in just 5 minutes, it’s thick, rich, and bursting with orange flavor! Perfect for a last-minute dessert or a refreshing sweet treat.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Chilling Time: 30 minutes (optional)
- Total Time: 5-35 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
- 3-4 mandarins (or small oranges), peeled and blended
- 200 ml (¾ cup) heavy cream (or whipping cream, cold)
- 200 g (7 oz) mascarpone (or cream cheese for a lighter version)
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 orange or mandarin
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for extra freshness)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for extra thickness)
Topping Options
- Mandarin slices
- Grated white chocolate
- Crushed cookies or nuts
- A drizzle of honey or caramel
Directions
1. Prepare the Mandarin Puree
- Peel 3-4 mandarins and blend them until smooth.
- Strain through a sieve to remove pulp (optional for a smoother texture).
2. Whip the Cream
- In a bowl, whip cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
3. Mix the Cream Base
- In another bowl, beat mascarpone, mandarin zest, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Gradually add the mandarin puree, mixing gently.
4. Combine Everything
- Fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, stirring gently to keep it airy.
- If using cornstarch, dissolve it in 1 tablespoon of mandarin juice, then mix it in for extra thickness.
5. Serve and Chill
- Divide into serving glasses or bowls.
- Decorate with mandarin slices, white chocolate, or crushed cookies.
- Enjoy immediately or chill for 30 minutes for a firmer texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with butter cookies or ladyfingers for dipping.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
- Use as a cake filling or spread over pancakes.
Cooking Tips
- For a lighter version, replace mascarpone with Greek yogurt.
- For a vegan option, use coconut cream and dairy-free cream cheese.
- For a stronger citrus flavor, add a bit of mandarin extract.
Nutritional Benefits
- Rich in vitamin C from mandarins.
- High in healthy fats from mascarpone and cream.
- Naturally sweet and refreshing.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-friendly
- Gluten-free
- Can be made dairy-free using plant-based alternatives.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approx.)
- Calories: 240
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 18g
- Sugar: 14g
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended as it may affect the texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 5 minutes!
- Smooth, creamy, and bursting with citrus flavor.
- Perfect for a quick dessert or a special treat.
- Customizable with different toppings and flavors.
Conclusion
This Creamy Mandarin Dessert is the perfect quick and easy dessert, combining zesty mandarins, silky mascarpone, and light whipped cream for a refreshing and indulgent treat. Whether you enjoy it immediately or chilled, it’s a simple yet elegant dessert that everyone will love. Try it today and impress your family and friends!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use canned mandarins? Yes! Just drain the syrup before blending.
- Can I use another fruit? Yes! Try oranges, tangerines, or mango.
- Can I make it without mascarpone? Yes! Substitute with cream cheese or Greek yogurt.
- Can I make it ahead of time? Yes! It keeps well for up to 2 days in the fridge.
- Can I make it sugar-free? Yes! Use a sugar alternative like stevia or honey.
- How do I make it thicker? Add a bit more mascarpone or cornstarch.
- Can I use a hand mixer instead of whipping by hand? Yes! It will make the process easier.
- What if my mixture is too runny? Chill it longer or add extra mascarpone.
- Can I use whipping cream instead of heavy cream? Yes! But make sure it’s cold for best results.
- How do I make it extra creamy? Use full-fat dairy ingredients and mix gently.