Indulge in a unique twist on the classic tiramisu with this creamy poppy seed version accompanied by oven-roasted apricots. This dessert combines the rich, tangy flavors of cream cheese and mascarpone with the gentle crunch of poppy seeds. The oven-roasted apricots, infused with orange zest and fresh herbs, add a delightful sweetness and depth to the dish. The ladyfingers are soaked in a milk mixture, adding another layer of flavor and texture.
Why You’ll Love This: This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate a sophisticated and elegant dessert. The combination of creamy layers and the sweet-tartness of apricots creates a harmonious balance. It’s a refreshing take on tiramisu, ideal for special occasions or as a luxurious treat for your weekend gatherings.
Ingredients:
For the Cream:
- Cream Cheese: 4 oz (room temperature)
- Mascarpone: 4 oz (cold)
- Heavy Whipping Cream: 1 cup
- Powdered Sugar: 1/2 cup
- Poppy Seeds: 2 tbsp
- Vanilla Extract: To taste
For the Oven-Roasted Apricots:
- Butter or Coconut Oil: 1 tbsp
- Ripe Apricots: 6-8
- Granulated Sugar: 2 tbsp
- Orange Zest: 1 tsp
- Orange Juice: 3-4 tbsp
- Fresh Rosemary and Mint
For Assembly:
- Ladyfingers: 12-14 (homemade or store-bought)
- Milk: 3/4 cup
- Vanilla or Almond Extract: 1 tsp
- Apricot Jam
Instructions:
- Cream Preparation:
- Whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until thick and forms soft peaks.
- In a separate bowl, mix softened cream cheese and mascarpone.
- Fold in whipped cream, vanilla extract, and poppy seeds into the cheese mixture gently. Chill in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes.
- Roasting Apricots:
- Preheat the oven to 400F with a cast-iron pan inside.
- Halve and remove pits from apricots.
- Carefully place apricots in the hot cast-iron pan, sprinkle with sugar, and add orange zest, juice, and herbs.
- Bake for 13-15 minutes until tender but not too soft.
- Assembling Tiramisu:
- Mix milk, sugar, and extract in a bowl.
- Briefly dip each ladyfinger in the milk mixture and lay them in a dish.
- Pipe a layer of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers.
- Add another layer of milk-dipped ladyfingers and a second layer of cream.
- Top with roasted apricots and a dollop of apricot jam.
Enjoy this exquisite tiramisu with its creamy, poppy seed-infused layers and the sweet, citrusy flavor of oven-roasted apricots. It’s a dessert that’s sure to impress and delight your palate.
