Ramadan 2023; Vanilla Fruit Cream Is An Absolute Festive Treat

Vanilla fruit cream is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed during Ramadan, the holy month of fasting in Islam. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn until dusk, and the breaking of the fast, known as iftar, is a special occasion that is often marked with the sharing of food with family and friends. Vanilla fruit cream is a great dessert option for iftar, as it is light, refreshing, and easy to prepare. To make vanilla fruit cream for Ramadan, you can use a combination of fresh fruits that are in season, such as dates, figs, and apricots, along with vanilla-flavoured custard or whipped cream. 

The dessert can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated until serving, which makes it a convenient option for iftar gatherings. It can also be customized to suit different tastes and preferences by adjusting the sweetness level or adding additional flavours, such as cardamom or rose water. The taste of vanilla fruit cream is sweet, creamy, and fruity, with a prominent vanilla flavour. The texture is smooth and silky, with a slight thickness from the custard or whipped cream. The sweetness level can be adjusted based on personal preference, and the taste of the dessert can vary depending on the type of fruit used.

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups fresh fruit (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries)
• Additional fruit for garnish (optional)

Method

• In a medium saucepan, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, and sugar over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to steam.
• In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until smooth. Slowly pour the hot cream mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
• Pour the egg and cream mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
• Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Transfer the custard to a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface of the custard to prevent skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until completely cool.
• Once the custard is cooled, chop the fresh fruit into bite-sized pieces and fold it into the custard.
• Spoon the vanilla fruit cream into serving dishes and garnish with additional fresh fruit, if desired.
• Chill the dessert in the refrigerator until ready to serve.