Desserts
Cranachan
The Quirky Foodster Team
Ingredients
- 80g (3/4 cup) pinhead oatmeal
- 300ml (1 1/4 cups) double cream
- 3 tbsp runny honey, plus extra to drizzle
- 3 tbsp Scotch whisky
- 300g (2 1/2 cups) fresh raspberries
Method
- Toast the oatmeal in a dry frying pan over medium heat for 4-5 minutes until golden and fragrant, then set aside to cool.
- Whip the cream to soft peaks in a mixing bowl.
- Gently fold in the honey and whisky, being careful not to overmix and lose the volume.
- Layer the whipped cream, toasted oatmeal and raspberries in serving glasses, repeating for two or three layers.
- Finish with a few whole raspberries on top and a final drizzle of honey.
Introduction: Cranachan is a celebratory Scottish dessert layering toasted oats, whipped cream, honey, whisky and fresh raspberries, historically served at harvest time when raspberries were in season.
Cultural Background: Cranachan is a celebratory Scottish dessert layering toasted oats, whipped cream, honey, whisky and fresh raspberries, historically served at harvest time when raspberries were in season. Its combination of textures and flavours, creamy, boozy, sweet and tart, has made it one of Scotland's most recognisable puddings, often served at Burns Night and other special occasions.
Tips: Toast the oatmeal well ahead of assembling so it has time to cool and stay crisp against the cream. Reserve a few whole raspberries and a pinch of oatmeal to garnish the top layer attractively.
Variations: Use frozen raspberries, thawed and lightly crushed, when fresh are out of season. Swap whisky for a non-alcoholic version by using a little extra honey and a splash of orange juice. Naturally vegetarian; there is no traditional vegan version due to the whipped cream and honey, though plant-based cream and agave can be substituted.
Storage: Assemble close to serving; components can be prepared separately and refrigerated for up to 1 day.
Reheating: Not applicable; this is a cold dessert.
Nutrition: Calories: 410 kcal, Protein: 5g, Carbs: 28g, Fat: 28g, Fibre: 4g
FAQs:
Q: Can cranachan be made ahead?
A: It is best assembled shortly before serving so the oatmeal stays crisp, though the individual elements can be prepared a day in advance.
Q: What whisky works best?
A: A smooth Highland or Speyside single malt is traditional, but any good Scotch whisky will work well.
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