Roasted Plum Eton Mess with Toasted Almonds Recipe
A delightful twist on the traditional Eton Mess dessert using roasted plums for a rich, caramelized fruit flavor combined with crunchy toasted almonds and crisp meringues, all folded into lightly sweetened whipped cream. This elegant dessert offers a balance of textures and a lovely hint of cinnamon, perfect for a sophisticated summer treat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Fruit
- 5 ripe plums, still firm, washed
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
Cream Mixture
- 250 ml cream (1 cup)
- 1 Tbsp icing sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Add-ins and Garnish
- 40 g toasted almond flakes or nibs, plus extra for decorating
- 120 – 140 g meringues, crumbled (approx. 6 medium-sized)
Instructions
- Roast the Plums: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Cut the plums in half and place them cut-side up on a small baking tray. Sprinkle evenly with the brown sugar and cinnamon (if using). Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until the plums start releasing juices but remain firm. Remove from the oven and allow the plums to cool completely in the fridge or freezer.
- Prepare the Whipped Cream: In a chilled bowl, whip the cream until medium-firm peaks form. Add the icing sugar and vanilla extract, then whisk gently until combined and smooth.
- Combine with Add-ins: Fold the crumbled meringues and toasted almonds gently into the whipped cream mixture, ensuring everything is evenly incorporated without deflating the cream.
- Mix in Roasted Plums: Chop the cooled roasted plums into small pieces along with their juices. Gently fold these into the cream and meringue mixture, reserving one plum to slice for garnish.
- Assemble and Serve: Spoon the mixture into individual serving glasses. Garnish each serving with slices of the reserved plum and a sprinkle of toasted almonds. Serve immediately for maximum crunchiness or refrigerate briefly before serving.
Notes
- All component elements can be prepared ahead of time and assembled just before serving for best texture.
- The meringue’s crunchiness will soften if left combined with the cream for too long in the fridge.
- To preserve texture, combine the well-chilled ingredients right before serving to maintain the pleasant contrast of creamy and crunchy elements.
