Cherry Garcia Takes a Dip
Cherry Garcia Takes a Dip Recipe with Bittersweet Chocolate and Kirsch
Introduction
Cherry Garcia Takes a Dip is a delicious and indulgent dessert dip that combines the classic flavors of cherry and chocolate in a creamy ice cream base. This recipe is perfect for serving at parties or gatherings, and is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
History
Cherry Garcia Takes a Dip is inspired by the popular Ben and Jerry's ice cream flavor, Cherry Garcia. This flavor was created in 1987 as a tribute to the Grateful Dead's lead guitarist, Jerry Garcia. The combination of cherry ice cream with cherries and fudge chunks quickly became a fan favorite, and has since inspired many other cherry and chocolate dessert recipes.
Ingredients
- 2 pt (946 ml) Ben and Jerry's cherry Garcia™ ice cream
- 4 oz (113 g) bittersweet chocolate, such as Valrhona or Scharffen Berger, cut into small chunks
- 3 tbsp kirsch
- dippables: double chocolate chunk brownie chips, heart-shaped apple cinnamon tortilla chips, sweet wonton crisps, toasted pound cake crisps, strawberries, chocolate wafer cookies, graham crackers
How to prepare
- Remove the ice cream from the freezer and let it soften for 20 minutes.
- Scoop the softened ice cream into a medium bowl and add the chocolate chunks and kirsch.
- Stir until the mixture becomes creamy and smooth.
- Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl and serve immediately.
- This dip can be prepared up to 2 days in advance.
- Cover and place in the freezer.
- Allow to soften for 20 minutes before serving.
Variations
- For a twist on the classic recipe, try using different flavors of ice cream such as chocolate or vanilla, and mix in your favorite toppings like nuts or caramel sauce.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to let the ice cream soften before mixing in the chocolate chunks and kirsch. This will make it easier to stir and ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
- For a more intense cherry flavor, you can add a few drops of cherry extract to the mixture.
- Double graham crackers make the perfect dippable for this dessert dip, but you can also serve it with fresh fruit, pretzels, or cookies.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cherry Garcia Takes a Dip with double graham crackers for dipping, or with fresh fruit for a lighter option.
Cooking Techniques
Soften the ice cream before mixing in the chocolate and kirsch to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have kirsch, you can substitute with cherry liqueur or cherry juice.
Make Ahead Tips
This dip can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the freezer. Allow to soften for 20 minutes before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Cherry Garcia Takes a Dip in a decorative bowl with a sprinkle of chocolate shavings on top for an elegant presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair this dessert dip with a glass of red wine or a cup of coffee for a delicious after-dinner treat.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer. Allow to soften for 20 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
320 per serving
Carbohydrates
32g per serving
Fats
18g per serving
Proteins
4g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
This recipe is a good source of calcium and vitamin D from the ice cream.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy and may contain traces of nuts.
Summary
This dessert dip is a rich and indulgent treat that is best enjoyed in moderation.
Summary
Cherry Garcia Takes a Dip is a decadent and delicious dessert dip that is perfect for serving at parties or gatherings. With its creamy ice cream base, rich chocolate chunks, and hint of cherry flavor, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this indulgent treat in moderation for a sweet and satisfying end to any meal.
How did I get this recipe?
I can still remember the exact moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Cherry Garcia Takes a Dip. It was a hot summer day, and I had just finished picking cherries from our backyard tree. As I sat at the kitchen table, staring at the pile of ripe, red cherries, I thought to myself, "What should I make with these delicious fruits?"
Suddenly, a memory from my childhood came rushing back to me. I remembered a family friend who used to make the most amazing cherry dessert - Cherry Garcia Takes a Dip. The name alone made my mouth water. I could almost taste the sweet cherries mixed with the creamy chocolate. I knew I had to recreate this recipe.
I rummaged through my recipe box, searching for any clue as to how to make this delectable treat. Finally, I found a scribbled note with the ingredients and instructions. Excitedly, I gathered all the necessary ingredients and got to work.
First, I pitted the cherries, careful not to squish them in the process. I wanted each bite of Cherry Garcia Takes a Dip to be bursting with juicy cherry goodness. Next, I melted chocolate in a double boiler, stirring constantly until it was smooth and shiny. The aroma of melted chocolate filled the kitchen, making my stomach growl in anticipation.
I carefully dipped each cherry into the melted chocolate, making sure it was completely coated. As I set each cherry on a lined baking sheet to cool, I couldn't help but sneak a taste. The combination of sweet cherry and rich chocolate was heavenly.
Once all the cherries were dipped and cooled, I placed them in the refrigerator to set. The waiting was torture, but I knew it would be worth it. After a few hours, I pulled out the tray of Cherry Garcia Takes a Dip and marveled at how beautiful they looked. The glossy chocolate coating shimmered in the light, tempting me to take a bite.
I eagerly popped one of the cherries into my mouth and closed my eyes, savoring the burst of flavor. The sweet cherry and creamy chocolate melded together perfectly, creating a symphony of taste sensations. I knew I had stumbled upon a treasure trove of a recipe.
From that day on, Cherry Garcia Takes a Dip became a staple in my dessert repertoire. I shared the recipe with friends and family, who all marveled at how delicious it was. It became a tradition to make this dessert whenever cherries were in season, and it always brought a smile to everyone's face.
As the years passed, I refined the recipe, tweaking the chocolate coating and experimenting with different types of cherries. But the essence of Cherry Garcia Takes a Dip remained the same - a simple yet decadent treat that never failed to impress.
I often think back to that hot summer day when I stumbled upon this recipe and feel grateful for the serendipitous moment. It's amazing how a simple memory can lead to the discovery of something truly special. And for me, Cherry Garcia Takes a Dip will always hold a special place in my heart - and my stomach.
Categories
| American Recipes | Bittersweet Chocolate Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Dip Recipes | Ice Cream Recipes | Kirsch Recipes |