Cream Cheese Barfi

Cream Cheese Barfi Recipe from Tibet with Almonds, Raisins, and Coconut

Region / culture: Tibet | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Cream Cheese Barfi is a rich and creamy dessert that is popular in Indian cuisine. It is made with a combination of cream cheese, sour cream, sweet condensed milk, and a variety of nuts and dried fruits. This dessert is perfect for special occasions and celebrations.

History

Cream Cheese Barfi is a modern twist on the traditional Indian sweet, Barfi. Barfi is a popular dessert in India and is typically made with condensed milk, sugar, and nuts. The addition of cream cheese and sour cream in this recipe gives it a unique and creamy texture.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) of cream cheese
1.5 lb (680 g) of sour cream
1 can of sweet condensed milk
0.5 cup of sugar
0.33 cup of sifted flour
0.25 tsp of baking powder
0.25 tsp of salt
0.25 cup of coarsely chopped almonds
0.25 cup of coarsely chopped cashews
0.25 cup of golden raisins
0.25 cup of coarsely chopped coconut

How to prepare

In a food processor, combine cream cheese, sour cream, condensed milk, sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt until a smooth paste-like mixture is formed.
Pour the mixture into a large bowl.
Add almonds, cashews, raisins, and coconut to the cream cheese mixture, and fold them in thoroughly.
Butter a baking dish well and pour the mixture into it, smoothing out the surface.
Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned.
Chill it overnight in the refrigerator.
To serve, cut into 2-inch cubes and top with whipped cream.

Variations

You can add different nuts and dried fruits to the barfi mixture for a variety of flavors.
You can also add a touch of cardamom or saffron for a traditional Indian flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to mix the cream cheese mixture thoroughly to ensure a smooth texture.

- Be sure to chill the barfi overnight in the refrigerator to allow it to set properly.

- Top the barfi with whipped cream before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Cream Cheese Barfi can be served as a dessert at special occasions and celebrations. It pairs well with a cup of hot chai or coffee.

Cooking Techniques

Use a food processor to mix the cream cheese mixture for a smooth texture.

- Bake the barfi in a preheated oven for even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangy flavor.

- You can use different types of nuts and dried fruits based on your preference.

Make Ahead Tips

Cream Cheese Barfi can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Cut the barfi into different shapes for a decorative presentation. - Garnish the barfi with edible flowers or silver leaf for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Cream Cheese Barfi pairs well with a cup of hot chai or coffee.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Cream Cheese Barfi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave for 30 seconds or until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cream Cheese Barfi contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cream Cheese Barfi contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Cream Cheese Barfi contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Cream Cheese Barfi contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Cream Cheese Barfi is a rich source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

Cream Cheese Barfi contains dairy (cream cheese, sour cream) and nuts (almonds, cashews) which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Cream Cheese Barfi is a rich and creamy dessert that is high in fats and carbohydrates. It is a good source of calcium and vitamins A and C.

Summary

Cream Cheese Barfi is a rich and creamy dessert that is perfect for special occasions and celebrations. It is a modern twist on the traditional Indian sweet, Barfi, and is sure to impress your guests with its unique and delicious flavor.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, it left a lasting impression on me. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Meera's house for a traditional Indian feast. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the most delightful aroma of spices and sweets.

Meera's mother, Mrs. Patel, was busy at the stove, stirring a pot of bubbling milk and sugar. She caught my eye and smiled warmly, beckoning me over to watch her work her magic. I was mesmerized as she added a block of cream cheese to the mixture, along with a handful of fragrant cardamom pods and a sprinkling of crushed pistachios.

As the mixture thickened and began to pull away from the sides of the pot, Mrs. Patel poured it out onto a greased tray and smoothed it into a perfect square. She then garnished it with more pistachios and let it cool before cutting it into bite-sized pieces. The end result was a beautiful, creamy barfi that melted in my mouth with every bite.

I was determined to learn how to make this delicious treat, so I asked Mrs. Patel for the recipe. She laughed and said it was a family secret that had been passed down for generations. But she could see my eagerness to learn, so she promised to teach me the recipe the next time I visited.

Over the years, I visited Meera's house many times, always hoping to catch Mrs. Patel in the midst of making her famous Cream Cheese Barfi. Each time, I watched closely as she worked her magic in the kitchen, taking mental notes of every ingredient and step.

Finally, one day, Mrs. Patel invited me to join her in making the barfi. I was overjoyed and eagerly donned an apron as she handed me a wooden spoon and a bowl of cream cheese. Together, we measured out the ingredients and cooked them to perfection, just as she had shown me.

As the mixture thickened and began to pull away from the sides of the pot, Mrs. Patel nodded in approval and poured it out onto the tray. I carefully smoothed it into a perfect square, just as she had taught me, and garnished it with pistachios before letting it cool.

The moment of truth came when we cut the barfi into pieces and tasted it. It was just as delicious as I remembered, with a perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess that melted in my mouth. Mrs. Patel smiled proudly at me and declared that I had truly mastered the art of making Cream Cheese Barfi.

From that day on, I made the recipe for Cream Cheese Barfi regularly, delighting my family and friends with this special treat. I always think back to that warm summer day at Meera's house, where I first learned the recipe from Mrs. Patel, and feel grateful for the memories and traditions that have been passed down to me.

Now, as I share this recipe with you, I hope that you too will feel the joy and satisfaction of making this delicious sweet treat. May it bring you as much happiness and memories as it has brought to me over the years. Enjoy!