BERRY CREAM TOPPING

Soak the gelatine in a little water. Heat the berry juice without bringing it to a boil, then stir in the softened, drained gelatine until dissolved.

Blend the remaining ingredients with the berry juice until smooth and homogeneous.

Pass the mixture through a funnel and a fine sieve into a 0.5 L Whipper. Close it securely and charge it with one Whipper capsule. Shake vigorously six to eight times, then refrigerate for at least six hours. Shake again before serving.

Berry cream combines fruity berries with a delicate sweetness and a light, creamy texture. It works well as a topping for cakes and tarts, and is also delicious in layered desserts or with crisp pastries. Add tart fruit, toasted nuts or a subtle herbal note to vary the flavour.

With cakes and tarts
Berry cream adds a fruity touch to light sponge cake, lemon cake or a slice of pound cake. It also pairs well with cheesecake or a mild quark tart: the berries bring freshness to the creamy filling. For a nutty variation, serve it with hazelnut or almond cake.

With meringue and pastries
Crisp meringue makes a lovely contrast to airy cream. Layer the two with fresh berries in a glass, or serve them with individual pavlovas. Waffles, crêpes and puff pastry also pair well with berry cream. With sweet pastries, you can skip any extra sweetener so the fruity flavour of the berries comes through.

As a dessert in a glass
For a layered dessert, combine the berry cream with crumbled amaretti, ladyfingers or pieces of sponge cake. A layer of tart berry compote or finely chopped fruit adds freshness. Plain yoghurt, quark or mascarpone complements the creamy texture. The result is a dessert with contrasting textures that you can prepare ahead and garnish just before serving.

Fruity additions
Fresh raspberries, blueberries or redcurrants bring out the berry flavour. For extra tartness, try rhubarb compote, tart apple cubes or a few drops of lemon juice. Passion fruit adds a slightly sharp note, too. Add these ingredients gradually and taste as you go, so the berry cream keeps its own distinctive flavour.

Crunchy toppings and toasted flavours
Toasted flaked almonds, chopped pistachios or caramelised hazelnuts add crunch. Dark chocolate shavings and cacao nibs bring a subtle bitter note. For a simple dessert to enjoy by the spoonful, sprinkle over crunchy oats or a little granola. Add the toppings just before serving so they stay crisp.

Herbs and spices
If you enjoy trying new combinations, add finely chopped mint, lemon balm or a little basil to the berry cream. A pinch of freshly ground black pepper brings out the berry notes. Vanilla or a little lemon zest works well, too. Start with small amounts and keep the garnish subtle so the berry cream remains the focus.

Image and recipe: isi.com