Cranachan is a classic Scottish dessert that celebrates the raspberry harvest in June. It is known as the “King of Scottish desserts” and is a simple yet delicious treat. This easy cranachan recipe combines toasted oats, raspberries, cream or Crowdie (a Scottish cheese), whisky, and sweetener, such as honey or sugar. You can adjust the ingredients to your taste and availability.

Cranachan can be made with fresh or frozen raspberries, and you can use different types of oats. The recipe is traditionally served in glasses or bowls, with layers of raspberry and cream mixture, topped with oats and fresh raspberries. It can be enjoyed right away or chilled in the fridge for a softer texture.

Ingredients and Equipment Needed

To make traditional cranachan, you will need a few key ingredients and equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Oats
• Honey
• Whisky
• Raspberries
• Double cream

The quantities of each ingredient can be adjusted according to your personal taste preferences.

In addition to the ingredients, you will also need the following equipment:

• A large mixing bowl
• Glasses or bowls for serving
• An electric hand mixer

This recipe is designed to serve four smaller glasses or two larger glasses, but you can easily adjust the quantities to accommodate your needs.

When it comes to preparing the ingredients:

• Toasted oats add a delightful nutty flavor to cranachan. You can toast them either in a pan on the stovetop or in the oven until they turn golden and fragrant.
• Fresh raspberries can be crushed using a fork, ensuring to save some for garnishing the finished dessert.
• Double cream is used for its richness, but if you prefer a tangy twist, you can substitute it with Crowdie or other soft Scottish cheeses.

Now, it’s important to whip the cream to stiff peaks before adding the whisky and honey. The whipped cream adds a light and creamy texture to the cranachan. Take care to reserve some of the cooled oats for garnishing the finished dessert.

A mouthwatering image of a delicious cranachan dessert, beautifully layered with raspberries, cream, and toasted oats.

Making the Cranachan

To make a delicious cranachan, follow these simple steps:

1. Toast the oats: Start by toasting the oats in a pan until they become fragrant and slightly golden. This process enhances their nutty flavor. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
2. Crush the raspberries: Take fresh raspberries, crush them with a fork, and set aside. Remember to save a few for garnish later on.
3. Whip the cream: In a large bowl, whip the cream using an electric hand mixer until it reaches stiff peaks. This will give the cranachan a light and airy texture. Add the whisky and honey during the whipping process to infuse the cream with delicious flavors.
4. Fold in the oats: Once the oats have cooled down, gently fold them into the whipped cream mixture. Be sure to save some oats for garnishing later.
5. Layer the raspberry and cream mixture: In glasses or bowls, create alternating layers of the raspberry and cream mixture. Start with a layer of raspberries, followed by a layer of cream, and repeat until the glasses or bowls are filled. End with a layer of cream on top.
6. Sprinkle with oats and garnish: Sprinkle the reserved oats over the final layer of cream. To add a touch of freshness and visual appeal, garnish with a few fresh raspberries.
7. Serve and enjoy: Your cranachan is now ready to be enjoyed! You can serve it right away or chill it in the fridge for a while to allow the oats to soften into the cream, creating a velvety texture. It’s a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of raspberries, the richness of cream, and the crunch of toasted oats.

For an alternative twist, you can mix all the ingredients together for a rustic and hodge-podge version of cranachan. The creamy, fruity, and oat-filled concoction is sure to satisfy your dessert cravings!

Variations and Tips

There are several variations you can try with cranachan. While raspberries are traditionally used, you can also use strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, or a mixture of berries. Scottish raspberries are sweeter, so if using other varieties, you may want to add a teaspoon or two of sugar to adjust the sweetness. Whisky is the usual choice for flavoring, but you can also try it with rum for a different twist. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can omit the whisky and add a little vanilla essence instead.

Cranachan can also be made into a cheesecake version if desired. When making cranachan, it is important to use high-quality ingredients to bring out the flavors. Scottish raspberries and good quality whisky are recommended. You can also adjust the ingredients and quantities according to your preference.

Here are some popular variations and tips for making cranachan:

1. Fruit variations: Experiment with different berries or fruits to change up the flavors. Try using strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries instead of raspberries.
2. Sweetness adjustment: If you’re using fruits that are less sweet, like strawberries, consider adding a teaspoon or two of sugar to the recipe to balance the flavors.
3. Alcohol substitution: While traditional cranachan is made with whisky, you can also try using rum for a different twist on the recipe.
4. Non-alcoholic version: If you prefer a non-alcoholic version of cranachan, simply omit the whisky and add a little vanilla essence for flavor.
5. Cheesecake variation: If you’re looking for a unique twist, try making a cranachan cheesecake by incorporating the flavors of cranachan into a creamy cheesecake filling.

Tips for Making Cranachan

When making cranachan, it’s important to keep a few tips in mind to ensure the best results:

• Use high-quality ingredients: To bring out the flavors of the cranachan, use high-quality Scottish raspberries and good quality whisky.
• Adjust the ingredients: Feel free to adjust the quantities of ingredients to suit your preferences. If you like a stronger whisky flavor, add a bit more. If you prefer a sweeter cranachan, add extra sugar or honey.
• Don’t skimp on the cream: Whipped double cream is a key ingredient in cranachan, providing richness and creaminess. Be sure to whip the cream until stiff peaks form before incorporating the other ingredients.
• Toast the oats: Toasting the oats brings out a nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dessert. It’s worth taking the extra step to toast them before adding them to the cream mixture.
• Layer and garnish: To create an appealing presentation, layer the raspberry and cream mixture in glasses or bowls. Finish it off with a sprinkle of toasted oats and a few fresh raspberries on top.

By experimenting with different fruits, adjusting the sweetness, and adding your own creative twists, you can personalize your cranachan experience. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or try out new variations, cranachan is a versatile and delicious Scottish dessert that can be enjoyed on any occasion.

Serving and Enjoying Cranachan

Cranachan, a traditional Scottish dessert, is typically served in glasses or bowls, allowing for individual portions or communal sharing. The presentation of the dessert is visually appealing, with layers of raspberry and cream mixture creating an enticing display.

To enhance the presentation of your homemade cranachan, consider garnishing with a few fresh raspberries and a sprinkle of oats. This adds a touch of texture and highlights the key ingredients of the dish – raspberries, whisky cream, and toasted oats.

After assembling your cranachan, you have the option to enjoy it immediately or refrigerate it for a while. Refrigeration allows the oats to soften into the cream, resulting in a smoother and creamier texture. It’s all a matter of personal preference.

Cranachan is a popular choice for special occasions in Scotland, such as Burns Night. It is also a delightful dessert to serve at gatherings and celebrations. The refreshing combination of flavors and indulgent creaminess make cranachan a memorable treat for all who taste it.

To complete the Scottish dessert experience, consider serving cranachan alongside traditional Scottish shortbread. The buttery richness of the shortbread complements the fruity and creamy elements of the cranachan, creating a harmonious union of flavors.

Tips for Serving Cranachan:

• Use glassware or bowls that showcase the layers of the dessert.
• Garnish with fresh raspberries and a sprinkle of oats for added visual appeal.
• Refrigerate for a short period to allow the oats to soften into the cream.
• Pair with Scottish shortbread for a complete Scottish dessert experience.
• Enjoy cranachan as a refreshing and indulgent treat during festive occasions.

Conclusion

Cranachan is a beloved Scottish dessert that embodies the essence of Scottish cuisine. With its delightful combination of raspberries, whisky cream, and toasted oats, cranachan offers a taste of tradition and authenticity. Whether you’re celebrating the raspberry harvest or simply craving a delicious Scottish dessert, this easy cranachan recipe is a perfect choice.

What makes cranachan truly special is its adaptability. You can adjust the ingredient amounts to suit your personal taste, creating a dessert that perfectly satisfies your cravings. Serve cranachan in glasses or bowls, layering the raspberry and cream mixture for a visually appealing presentation. Whether enjoyed immediately or chilled for a while to allow the oats to soften into the cream, cranachan is a delightful treat that will impress your guests.

As you savor each spoonful of cranachan, you’ll experience the harmonious blend of flavors and textures that make this Scottish dessert so memorable. This authentic recipe captures the essence of cranachan, allowing you to recreate the magic in your own kitchen. So why not indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of cranachan? It’s a whisky-infused dessert that brings warmth and joy to any occasion.

For more whisky dessert ideas and authentic Scottish dessert recipes, be sure to explore the wonderful world of cranachan and discover the delicious delights of Scottish cuisine.

Cranachan Recipe

Freya

Cranachan is a beloved Scottish dessert that embodies the essence of Scottish cuisine. With its delightful combination of raspberries, whisky cream, and toasted oats, cranachan offers a taste of tradition and authenticity.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 2 people

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup Oats
• 2 tablespoons Honey
• 2 tablespoons Glenlivet 12 Year Old Scotch Whisky
• 1 and 1/2 cups Raspberries
• 1 and 1/2 cups Double cream

Instructions

 

• Start by toasting the oats in a pan until they become fragrant and slightly golden. This process enhances their nutty flavor. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
  1 cup Oats
• Take fresh raspberries, crush them with a fork, and set aside. Remember to save a few for garnish later on.
  1 and 1/2 cups Raspberries
• In a large bowl, whip the cream using an electric hand mixer until it reaches stiff peaks. This will give the cranachan a light and airy texture. Add the whisky and honey during the whipping process to infuse the cream with delicious flavors.
  2 tablespoons Glenlivet 12 Year Old Scotch Whisky, 1 and 1/2 cups Double cream, 2 tablespoons Honey
• Once the oats have cooled down, gently fold them into the whipped cream mixture. Be sure to save some oats for garnishing later.
• In glasses or bowls, create alternating layers of the raspberry and cream mixture. Start with a layer of raspberries, followed by a layer of cream, and repeat until the glasses or bowls are filled. End with a layer of cream on top.
• Sprinkle the reserved oats over the final layer of cream. To add a touch of freshness and visual appeal, garnish with a few fresh raspberries.

Keyword Cranachan Recipe