This Sugar-Free Fruit and Nut Dessert is a game-changer for those seeking a healthy, delicious treat without the need for an oven. Packed with dried fruits, nuts, and a creamy base, this dessert offers a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. The addition of sugar-free dark chocolate adds a rich, decadent touch that makes this dessert irresistible.
Whether you’re looking for a guilt-free treat or a show-stopping dessert for your next gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. It’s easy to prepare and requires no baking, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and the creamy, nutty goodness that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 200g (7 oz) dried apricots
- 200g (7 oz) raisins
- 25g (0.9 oz) instant gelatin
- 50ml cold water
- 100g (3.5 oz) walnuts
- 100g (3.5 oz) almonds
- 200g (7 oz) ricotta or cottage cheese
- 250g (9 oz) sour cream or plain, unsweetened yogurt
- 1 tablespoon honey or favorite sweetener
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 40g (1.4 oz) sugar-free dark chocolate
- 50ml (1.7 fl oz) milk
- Olive or vegetable oil for greasing
Directions:
- Prepare the Dried Fruits:
- Soak the dried apricots and raisins in cold water for 15 minutes to remove preservatives. Drain and dry them, then cut into small pieces.
- Prepare the Gelatin:
- In a small bowl, combine the instant gelatin and 50ml of cold water. Mix and let the gelatin swell.
- Prepare the Nuts:
- In a skillet, lightly fry the walnuts and almonds. Once cooled, chop them with a knife.
- Blend the Cream Mixture:
- In a blender, combine the ricotta or cottage cheese, sour cream or yogurt, honey or sweetener, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.
- Melt the swollen gelatin in the microwave for 20 seconds, ensuring it does not boil. Stir it into the blended mixture.
- Combine All Ingredients:
- Add the chopped nuts and dried fruits to the creamy mixture and stir well.
- Set the Dessert:
- Grease a 19.5cm silicone mold with olive or vegetable oil. Pour the mixture into the mold.
- Place the mold in the refrigerator for 4 hours to set.
- Prepare the Chocolate Topping:
- Before serving, melt the sugar-free dark chocolate and milk in a water bath until smooth.
- Drizzle the melted chocolate over the set dessert. Slice and serve.
Nutritional Benefits
**1. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: The dried apricots and raisins in this recipe are packed with essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, potassium, and iron. These nutrients are crucial for maintaining good health, boosting immunity, and improving skin health.
2. High in Fiber: The dried fruits and nuts are excellent sources of dietary fiber. Fiber aids in digestion, helps maintain a healthy weight, and lowers the risk of heart disease.
3. Protein-Packed: The ricotta or cottage cheese and the nuts provide a good amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body maintenance. Protein also helps keep you full longer, reducing the tendency to snack between meals.
4. Healthy Fats: Nuts like walnuts and almonds are rich in healthy fats, which are essential for brain health and reducing inflammation in the body.
5. Low Glycemic Index: Using honey or your favorite natural sweetener instead of refined sugar ensures a lower glycemic index, making it a safer option for those managing blood sugar levels.
Versatility and Ease of Preparation
No Oven Needed: This dessert is perfect for those hot summer days when you want a delicious treat without heating up the kitchen. The no-bake aspect makes it an easy and quick dessert option.
Customizable: You can easily customize this dessert to suit your preferences. Swap out the dried fruits for others like cranberries or dates, or use different nuts such as pecans or hazelnuts. You can also adjust the sweetness level by using more or less honey or your favorite sweetener.
Perfect for Any Occasion: This dessert is elegant enough for special occasions but simple enough for everyday indulgence. It’s a great addition to any party menu or a delightful treat to enjoy after dinner with the family.
Tips for Making the Best Sugar-Free Fruit and Nut Dessert
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that your dried fruits are fresh and free from preservatives. Organic options are always a good choice.
- Chill Properly: Allowing the dessert to chill for the full 4 hours is crucial for setting the gelatin and melding the flavors together.
- Serve Creatively: Consider serving this dessert in individual cups or ramekins for an elegant presentation. You can also top it with fresh fruit slices for added color and flavor.
Health Considerations
Diabetic-Friendly: By using a natural sweetener, this dessert can be a safe option for diabetics. Always consult with a healthcare provider if you’re unsure about how certain ingredients might affect your condition.
Allergy-Friendly: For those with nut allergies, simply omit the nuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
Serving Suggestions
Garnish: Add a sprinkle of cocoa powder, a dash of cinnamon, or a drizzle of extra melted dark chocolate before serving. Fresh mint leaves also make a beautiful and flavorful garnish.
Pairings: Serve this dessert with a cup of herbal tea or a glass of unsweetened almond milk for a refreshing and healthy combination.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day.
Final Thoughts
This Sugar-Free Fruit and Nut Dessert is a fantastic option for anyone looking to enjoy a sweet treat without the guilt. It’s nutritious, delicious, and easy to make, proving that you don’t need sugar to create an amazing dessert. Try this recipe today and see why it’s driving the world crazy!