Summer Berry Delight

As the days grow warmer, there’s nothing quite like a light, fruity dessert to keep you cool and satisfied. This Summer Berry Delight is a perfect choice, combining the airy texture of ladyfingers with a luscious strawberry mousse and the refreshing zest of lime. Here’s how you can make this delightful treat at home.

Ingredients:

For the Base:

• 24-26 ladyfingers

For the Strawberry Mousse:

• ½ lb (225 g) strawberries
• ¼ cup + 2 tbsp (75g) sugar
• 2 packets powdered gelatine (14g)
• 1 ¼ cup (300 ml) whipping cream (30%)

For the Soaking Syrup:

• 5 oz (150 ml) water
• 1 lime
• ¼ cup + 2 tbsp (75g) sugar

Directions:

Step 1 – Make the Strawberry Puree:

• Wash and hull the strawberries. Set aside 15-16 whole strawberries for decoration, and blend the remaining berries into a smooth puree. Strain the puree if desired for a smoother texture.
• Heat a third of the puree with half the sugar and the gelatine in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, whisking constantly for 1 minute.
• Remove from heat, mix in the remaining puree, and allow it to cool.

Step 2 – Make the Soaking Syrup:

• In a saucepan, combine water, lime zest, and the remaining sugar. Heat until the sugar is completely dissolved. Let the syrup cool.

Step 3 – Make the Strawberry Mousse:

• Whip the cream to firm peaks.
• Gently fold the cooled strawberry puree into the whipped cream, being careful not to deflate the mixture.

Step 4 – Assemble the Cake:

• Line an 8” springform pan with parchment paper.
• Dip the ladyfingers briefly in the soaking syrup and arrange them around the sides and at the bottom of the pan.
• Layer the dipped ladyfingers with the strawberry mousse, adding halved strawberries in between layers for extra flavor and texture.
• Chill the assembled cake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to set.

Step 5 – To Serve:

• Carefully unmold the cake from the springform pan and remove the parchment paper.
• Decorate the top with the reserved halved strawberries.
• Slice and serve this refreshing summer treat.

Nutritional Information:

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Setting Time: 4 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
• Calories: 300 per serving
• Servings: 8

Tips for Success:

• Gentle Folding: When combining the strawberry puree with the whipped cream, fold gently to maintain the mousse’s light and airy texture.
• Quick Dipping: Dip the ladyfingers quickly in the syrup to prevent them from becoming too soggy.
• Fresh Strawberries: Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and appearance.

This Summer Berry Delight is an elegant and refreshing dessert that’s sure to impress at any summer gathering. Its light texture and vibrant flavors make it a perfect way to end a meal on a high note. Enjoy this delightful cake with friends and family, and savor the taste of summer in every bite!