Bramley Apple and Yoghurt Fool

Bramley Apple and Yoghurt Fool Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

The Bramley Apple and Yoghurt Fool is a delightful dessert that combines the tartness of Bramley apples with the creamy texture of yoghurt, all complemented by the sweetness of brown sugar and the richness of chocolate. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate a dessert that is not overly sweet but is packed with flavors and textures. It's a versatile dish that can be served at casual family dinners or at more formal gatherings, making it a must-try for anyone who loves experimenting with traditional ingredients in new ways.

History

The concept of a "fool" in culinary terms is traditionally English and dates back to the 16th century. Originally, fools were made by folding pureed stewed fruit into a sweet custard. Over time, the recipe evolved, and by the 17th century, it was common to use cream instead of custard. The Bramley Apple, a variety known for its exceptional cooking qualities, became a popular choice for these desserts due to its sharp flavor and ability to create a smooth puree. This recipe is a modern take on the traditional fool, incorporating yoghurt for a lighter texture and adding chocolate for an extra layer of indulgence.

Ingredients

2 medium bramley apples, peeled, cored and chopped into 1 cm pieces
4 tbsp soft brown sugar
finely grated zest and juice of 1 lemon
55 g bitter chocolate, finely grated
10 sponge fingers
1 pt (473 ml) ready made, low fat custard
450 g thick yoghurt

How to prepare

Place the apples, brown sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest into a saucepan.
Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally, then reduce the heat and cook until the mixture is soft and pulpy, about 15 minutes. If the mixture is too thick, you may need to add a little more water. Allow it to cool.
Carefully grate the chocolate using a cheese grater, then chill it well or place it in the freezer.
Place a large bowl or bowls on the work surface, then spoon half of the apple mixture into the bottom.
Break up the Savoy biscuits and sprinkle them over the apple.
Spoon over half of the custard.
Next, add half of the yogurt.
Repeat the layers: apple, custard, and yogurt. Finally, sprinkle the grated chocolate over the top.
Serve and enjoy! It will look fantastic!

Variations

For those looking to experiment, there are several ways to vary this recipe:
Substitute the Bramley apples with another tart apple variety or even a mixture of berries for a different flavor profile.
Use a flavored yoghurt, such as vanilla or honey, to add an extra dimension to the dessert.
Incorporate a layer of granola or crushed nuts for added texture and a nutty flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results for your Bramley Apple and Yoghurt Fool, consider the following tips:

- When cooking the apples, keep an eye on the consistency. The goal is to achieve a soft, pulpy texture without letting the mixture become too watery.

- Chilling the grated chocolate before sprinkling it on top helps maintain its texture and prevents it from melting too quickly into the warm layers beneath.

- For a smoother custard layer, consider whisking the custard before adding it to the layers. This can help eliminate any lumps and ensure a creamier texture.

Serving Suggestions

This dessert is best served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. It can be presented in individual serving glasses for an elegant touch or in a large bowl for a more casual presentation. Garnish with a sprig of mint or a dusting of cinnamon for added flair.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking technique in this recipe is the preparation of the apple mixture. Slow cooking the apples with sugar and lemon until they reach a soft, pulpy consistency is crucial for achieving the right texture for the fool. Additionally, layering the ingredients carefully ensures that each spoonful has the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredient Substitutions

For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, consider the following substitutions:

- Use a dairy-free yoghurt and custard to make this recipe vegan.

- Substitute the brown sugar with a sugar alternative for a lower-calorie option.

- Replace the sponge fingers with a gluten-free alternative to make this dessert gluten-free.

Make Ahead Tips

This dessert can be prepared up to a day in advance, making it a convenient option for entertaining. Assemble the layers and store the dessert in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Add the grated chocolate just before serving to maintain its texture.

Presentation Ideas

For an impressive presentation, layer the dessert in clear glasses to showcase the beautiful layers. Top with a generous amount of grated chocolate and a few thin apple slices or a twist of lemon zest for a professional touch.

Pairing Recommendations

The Bramley Apple and Yoghurt Fool pairs wonderfully with a sweet dessert wine or a sparkling cider. The acidity and bubbles can help cut through the richness of the dessert, making for a refreshing end to a meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This dessert is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It is not recommended to freeze this dessert, as the texture of the yoghurt and custard may be adversely affected. No reheating is necessary, as this dessert is served chilled.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of this Bramley Apple and Yoghurt Fool is estimated to contain approximately 300-400 calories, making it a relatively indulgent dessert option. The exact calorie count can vary based on the specific ingredients used, such as the type of yoghurt and chocolate.

Carbohydrates

This dessert is relatively high in carbohydrates, primarily due to the natural sugars in the apples, the added brown sugar, and the sponge fingers. The carbohydrates provide the body with energy, making this dish a good option for a post-meal treat that won't leave you feeling sluggish.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come mainly from the yoghurt and the chocolate. Using thick yoghurt can contribute to the overall fat content, but opting for a low-fat version can help reduce this. The chocolate, while adding a rich flavor, also adds saturated fats, so it's best consumed in moderation.

Proteins

Yoghurt is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. This dessert provides a moderate amount of protein, making it a satisfying end to a meal that can help keep you feeling full longer.

Vitamins and minerals

Bramley apples are a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Vitamin C is important for the growth and repair of tissues in all parts of your body, while fiber aids in digestion. The yoghurt contributes calcium and probiotics, which are beneficial for bone health and digestive health, respectively.

Alergens

This recipe contains potential allergens, including dairy (from the yoghurt and custard) and gluten (from the sponge fingers). Individuals with allergies or intolerances to these ingredients should exercise caution and consider suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, the Bramley Apple and Yoghurt Fool is a dessert that offers a balance of flavors and textures, along with a mix of nutrients. While it is relatively high in carbohydrates and calories, it also provides protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it a worthwhile treat for special occasions.

Summary

The Bramley Apple and Yoghurt Fool is a delightful dessert that combines the tartness of apples with the creaminess of yoghurt and custard, all topped with the indulgence of chocolate. It's a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences, making it a perfect addition to any dessert repertoire. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a delicious way to end a meal, this fool is sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy memory that I hold dear to my heart. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl learning the art of cooking from my mother in our cozy kitchen.

One sunny afternoon, while rummaging through my mother's recipe box, I stumbled upon a faded piece of paper with the words "Bramley Apple and Yoghurt Fool" scrawled across it in elegant handwriting. Intrigued by the name, I asked my mother about the recipe and she smiled, telling me it was a family favorite passed down from her own grandmother.

Excited to try something new, we gathered the ingredients and set to work in the kitchen. The tartness of the Bramley apples mixed with the creamy yoghurt was a combination I had never tasted before, and I was amazed at how simple yet delicious the dish was. As we sat down to enjoy our creation, I knew that this recipe would become a cherished part of my own culinary repertoire.

Over the years, I have made the Bramley Apple and Yoghurt Fool countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes. I have added a sprinkle of cinnamon for warmth, a drizzle of honey for sweetness, and even a splash of rum for a little kick. No matter how I choose to make it, the dish always brings back memories of that sunny afternoon in the kitchen with my mother.

As I grew older and started my own family, I passed the recipe down to my children, who have now made it a tradition to make the Bramley Apple and Yoghurt Fool every Sunday for dessert. It warms my heart to see them carrying on the tradition and sharing the recipe with their own friends and loved ones.

One particularly fond memory I have of making the Bramley Apple and Yoghurt Fool was when my grandchildren came to visit for the summer. They were eager to learn how to cook, and I knew that this recipe would be the perfect introduction to the joys of creating something delicious in the kitchen.

We spent hours peeling and chopping the apples, stirring the yoghurt until it was smooth and creamy, and layering the two ingredients in a beautiful glass trifle dish. The children were fascinated by the process and couldn't wait to taste the final product.

When we finally sat down to enjoy our Bramley Apple and Yoghurt Fool, the children's faces lit up with delight at the first bite. They couldn't believe that something so simple could taste so incredible. As they asked for seconds and thirds, I knew that I had passed on a love of cooking and a delicious recipe that would be treasured for generations to come.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the memories of discovering the Bramley Apple and Yoghurt Fool all those years ago, I am filled with gratitude for the joy that cooking has brought to my life. It is a gift that I am grateful to share with others, and I know that as long as there are kitchens and families to gather in them, the tradition of the Bramley Apple and Yoghurt Fool will live on.