Cranachan

Cranachan Recipe from Scotland with Oatmeal, Cream, Honey, Whiskey, and Raspberries

Region / culture: Scotland | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Cranachan is a traditional Scottish dessert that combines oats, cream, honey, whisky, and fresh fruit. It is a delicious and indulgent treat that is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet ending to a meal.

History

Cranachan has been enjoyed in Scotland for centuries, with its origins dating back to the 18th century. It is believed to have been created as a way to showcase the abundance of fresh berries and oats that are plentiful in the Scottish countryside.

Ingredients

2 oz (57 g) of old-fashioned oatmeal
10 oz (283 g) of fresh double cream
3 tbsp of honey
3 tbsp of good scotch whiskey
12 oz (340 g) of fresh raspberries (or other fresh soft fruit)

How to prepare

Toast the oatmeal in a broiler, turning occasionally with a spoon or spatula, until it turns golden brown.
Let the oatmeal cool.
Whip the cream until it becomes very stiff, then add the honey, whisky, and oatmeal.
In four tall glasses, layer the raspberries with the cream mixture. Cover with cling film or Saran wrap and refrigerate.
Allow the dessert to come to room temperature for 30 minutes before serving. Decorate with a few raspberries.

Variations

Try using different types of fresh fruit, such as strawberries or blueberries, to change up the flavor of the dessert.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to toast the oatmeal until it is golden brown to bring out its nutty flavor.

- Whip the cream until it is very stiff to ensure a light and fluffy texture for the dessert.

- Allow the dessert to come to room temperature before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cranachan in tall glasses for an elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh raspberries for a pop of color.

Cooking Techniques

Toasting the oatmeal adds a nutty flavor to the dessert, while whipping the cream until stiff creates a light and fluffy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the whisky with a splash of vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic version of Cranachan.

Make Ahead Tips

Cranachan can be made ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to serve. Just allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Layer the raspberries and cream mixture in a parfait glass for a beautiful and elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Cranachan with a glass of whisky or a cup of coffee for a delightful end to a meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Cranachan in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cranachan contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cranachan contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Cranachan contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Cranachan contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Cranachan is a good source of vitamin C from the fresh fruit used in the recipe.

Alergens

Cranachan contains dairy from the cream used in the recipe.

Summary

Cranachan is a rich and indulgent dessert that is high in fats and carbohydrates, making it a delicious treat for special occasions.

Summary

Cranachan is a delicious and indulgent Scottish dessert that combines oats, cream, honey, whisky, and fresh fruit for a sweet treat that is perfect for special occasions.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still picture the first time I came across this recipe for Cranachan. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl living in the small village of Glenfinnan in the Scottish Highlands. My grandmother, who was a wonderful cook and taught me everything I know about traditional Scottish cuisine, had invited me into the kitchen to help her prepare a special dessert for a family gathering.

As we gathered the ingredients and began to cook, my grandmother told me the story of Cranachan. She explained that it was a traditional Scottish dessert that had been enjoyed for centuries, particularly during the summer months when fresh raspberries were plentiful. She told me that the recipe had been passed down through the generations in our family, and that she had learned how to make it from her own grandmother when she was just a girl like me.

I was fascinated by the history and tradition behind the recipe, and I watched intently as my grandmother showed me how to mix the whipped cream with toasted oatmeal, honey, and a generous splash of whisky. She then gently folded in the fresh raspberries, creating a beautiful and delicious dessert that was both sweet and tangy, with a hint of warmth from the whisky.

As we sat down to enjoy the Cranachan with our family that evening, I knew that I had found a recipe that I would cherish and pass down to future generations. Over the years, I have made Cranachan many times, always with a sense of pride and gratitude for the traditions and memories that it represents.

I have since learned that there are many variations of Cranachan, with some recipes calling for different fruits such as strawberries or blackberries, and others adding extra ingredients like toasted almonds or grated chocolate. But for me, the traditional recipe that my grandmother taught me will always hold a special place in my heart.

I have shared the recipe with friends and neighbors over the years, always happy to pass on a taste of Scottish tradition and history. I have even taught my own grandchildren how to make Cranachan, hoping that they will continue the tradition and keep our family recipe alive for many more generations to come.

As I look back on that day in my grandmother's kitchen, I am grateful for the memories and lessons that she shared with me. The recipe for Cranachan is more than just a dessert - it is a connection to my past, a reminder of the love and heritage that have shaped me into the person I am today.

So whenever I make Cranachan, I do so with a smile on my face and a heart full of gratitude. For this simple dessert has become a symbol of my family, my heritage, and the love that I have for both. And I will continue to make it, and share it, for as long as I am able.