Cherry Parfait with Coulis and Almond Garnish

A creamy, indulgent dessert with a vibrant cherry coulis to steal the show.

This Vanilla Parfait combines silky smooth textures with the tart sweetness of cherries. Perfect for any special occasion, this dish is as impressive as it is delicious.

Ingredients

For the Parfait:

• 1 tin (397 g) condensed milk
• 375 ml full cream milk
• 3 egg yolks
• 1 vanilla pod, split and seeds scraped
• 3 egg whites
• 300 ml dollop cream
• 3 tbsp sugar

For the Cherry Coulis:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
• 2 tbsp sugar

To Garnish:

• Toasted flaked almonds
• Fresh cherries and berries

Method

1. Prepare the Parfait Base

• Line a large loaf pan with baking paper, covering the bottom and sides completely.
• In a pot, combine condensed milk, egg yolks, full cream milk, and vanilla seeds (add the pod for extra flavor, removing it later).
• Heat over medium heat, stirring continuously, until it begins to boil. Reduce heat and cook for 3–4 minutes or until the mixture thickens and you can see the bottom of the pot when stirred.
• Transfer to a bowl, cover with cling film pressed directly onto the surface, and let it cool completely.

2. Make the Meringue

• In a clean mixing bowl, whip the egg whites to soft peaks. Gradually add sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, whipping until stiff, glossy peaks form.

3. Whip the Cream

• In a separate bowl, whip the dollop cream to soft peaks. Gently fold it into the meringue mixture to retain the lightness.

4. Combine and Freeze

• Fold the cooled base mixture into the meringue-cream mixture until smooth and well combined.
• Pour into the prepared loaf pan and freeze for at least 24 hours.

5. Make the Cherry Coulis

• In a small saucepan, cook cherries and sugar over medium heat until the cherries soften and the mixture thickens slightly. Let it cool.

6. To Serve

• Remove the parfait from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes. If it sticks, briefly warm the sides of the pan with your hands or a warm cloth.
• Invert the parfait onto a serving plate and garnish with cherry coulis, fresh berries, and toasted flaked almonds.

Serving Tip

Slice the parfait into thick slices and serve immediately to enjoy its creamy texture and vibrant flavors.

Indulge in this show-stopping dessert created by the talented chefs at the State Buildings!