Blueberry Fool Recipe – A Quick and Delicious Dessert with Fresh Berries and Whipped Cream
Description:
The Blueberry Fool Recipe is an incredibly simple yet indulgent dessert made with fresh fruit puree and whipped cream. This classic “fool” dessert can be made with any berry combination, but blueberries are a particularly popular choice, providing a sweet, tangy contrast to the creamy base. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or as a quick treat, this dessert is sure to please all palates.
Cuisine: Continental
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Heavy whipping cream | 360 ml |
| Icing sugar | 50 grams |
| Orange zest (rind) | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh orange juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Orange liqueur (like Grand Marnier, optional) | 1 tablespoon |
| Blueberries (for sauce) | 250 grams |
| Salt | A pinch |
| Caster sugar | 50 grams |
| Blueberries (for garnish) | As needed |
| Shortbread cookies (for garnish) | Crumbled |
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Blueberry Sauce
Start by making the blueberry sauce that will form the fruit layer of the Blueberry Fool. In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh blueberries, caster sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the blueberries begin to soften and release their juices. This should take about 5 minutes. Once the berries have softened, reduce the heat to low and continue stirring occasionally. Allow the blueberries to cook for another 3-5 minutes, until they are completely softened and the sauce becomes thicker.
Stir in the orange zest, fresh orange juice, and orange liqueur (if using). Once fully combined, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the blueberry sauce cool. As it cools, it will thicken further. You can refrigerate the sauce to speed up the cooling process while preparing the whipped cream.
Step 2: Make the Whipped Cream
In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, pour the chilled heavy whipping cream and icing sugar. Whisk the mixture until it forms soft peaks, becoming thick and fluffy. Be careful not to overwhip the cream to the point where it separates. Once it reaches a smooth, thick consistency, stop whisking and set the whipped cream aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Shortbread Cookies
Crumble the shortbread cookies (or wafer cookies) into small pieces to use as a garnish for the dessert. Set them aside for later.
Step 4: Assemble the Blueberry Fool
Now, it’s time to assemble the dessert! Place six individual dessert bowls on a flat surface. Begin by spooning alternating layers of whipped cream and the cooled blueberry sauce into each bowl. Continue layering until the bowls are filled, ending with a layer of blueberry sauce on top.
Top the dessert with fresh blueberries for a burst of color and flavor. Sprinkle the crumbled shortbread cookies over the top for a delightful crunch and added texture.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the assembled Blueberry Fool for at least 4 to 5 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the dessert to set perfectly.
Serving Suggestions:
For an extra touch of flavor and elegance, serve the Blueberry Fool alongside a savory dish like Savoury Crepes with Za’atar Spiced Chicken or Chickpea & Oats Falafel for a balanced meal that transitions smoothly into dessert.
Tips:
- Feel free to experiment with other berries like raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries to create your own version of this dessert.
- For an alcohol-free version, simply omit the orange liqueur and add a bit more orange juice for extra flavor.
- If you prefer a thicker whipped cream, you can add a little bit of mascarpone or cream cheese to the mixture for a richer texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 240 kcal |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Sugars | 25g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 1g |
This Blueberry Fool recipe is not only quick to make but also incredibly versatile and can be easily adapted with other berries or even citrus fruits. Whether you enjoy it on a warm day or as a refreshing end to a hearty meal, this dessert will always be a crowd-pleaser!
