Christmas is approaching, heralding the season of delightful desserts, from festive cakes to an array of cookies. The act of preparing these treats is equally refreshing, as loved ones gather to craft the perfect Christmas feast. It is, without a doubt, a time for celebration and connection. In essence, Christmas desserts, warm and inviting, embody the comforting spirit of the holiday season.

While most desserts typically necessitate the use of an oven, those without one or those seeking to experiment with new ideas can delve into the realm of no-bake Christmas desserts. Desserts are not confined to a singular method of preparation. They evoke happiness, and access to an oven should not limit this joy. Therefore, whether you have an oven or not, prepare to curate an exceptional dessert menu this Christmas.

Here is a selection of items you can incorporate into your no-bake dessert menu:

Cheesecake

Is it possible to have cake without the process of baking? This delightful cheesecake is sure to astonish you and may even prompt a reevaluation of your assumptions. A no-bake cheesecake is a rich and creamy dessert that is remarkably simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for Christmas festivities. Featuring a crunchy biscuit crust topped with smooth cream cheese, this dessert is guaranteed to spark conversation.

Recipe by Debbie Clark-

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ⅓ cup packed brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ⅓ cup butter, melted
• 226.8 gm cream cheese
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 475 ml heavy whipping cream
• ⅓ cup white sugar
• 1 can cherry pie filling or fresh berries

Method

• In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add the melted butter and mix thoroughly. Press this mixture into the base of an 8- or 10-inch springform pan and allow it to chill until firm.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream cheese and lemon juice until smooth. Gradually incorporate the heavy whipping cream, using an electric mixer to beat the mixture until stiff peaks form.
• Pour this mixture over the chilled crust and refrigerate for several hours or overnight.
• Serve with your choice of toppings, such as fresh fruit or crushed biscuits.

Tiramisu

Is your mouth beginning to water? Tiramisu is undoubtedly a dessert that appeals to many. While it may require some effort, it is certainly free from the complexities of baking and temperature control. The delightful combination of smooth coffee flavor and creamy cheese texture is simply divine.

Recipe by Tarla Dalal

Ingredients

• 20 tiramisu biscuits
• ½ mascarpone cheese
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup soft beaten whipped cream
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder for dusting
• 2 tsp coffee powder
• 1 tbsp sugar
• ½ cup warm water

Method

• Combine 2 tsp of coffee powder, 1 tbsp of sugar, and ½ cup of warm water to prepare the coffee.
• In a bowl, whisk together ½ cup of mascarpone cheese, 1 tsp of vanilla extract, and ¼ cup of powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth.
• Gently fold in 1 cup of whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture.
• Quickly dip the 20 tiramisu biscuits into the coffee mixture and arrange them in a dish.
• Spread half of the cream mixture over the layer of biscuits.
• Repeat the process with another layer of soaked biscuits followed by the remaining cream mixture.
• Refrigerate for 4 to 6 hours or overnight.
• Before serving, dust with 2 tbsp of cocoa powder.

Panna Cotta

If you want to impress everyone with your culinary skills at the dinner table, Panna Cotta is surely the one for you (almost gives you Masterchef vibes!) Panna Cotta is a smooth, creamy Italian dessert known for its delicate texture and subtle flavour. The creamy dessert will melt in your mouth. It's very simple and easy to make, exuding high-end gourmet food energy.

Recipe by Mimi

Ingredients

• 2 ½ teaspoon unflavored gelatin
• 2 ½ cup whipping cream
• ½ cup full fat milk
• 45 grams granulated sugar
• Pinch of salt
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract

Method

• In a small cup, add 3 tablespoons of milk and sprinkle the gelatin on top. Let it sit to bloom.
• In a small saucepan,add the rest of the milk, cream, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Heat gently, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Do not allow it to boil.
• Once small bubbles appear at the edges, remove from heat and whisk in the bloomed gelatin. Stir in vanilla extract and mix gently.
• Let the mixture cool to room temperature. Before pouring, stir again to ensure it’s well combined.
• Pour the mixture into shot glasses or silicone moulds.
• Place the containers in an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
• Once set, top with fresh berry sauce before serving. Alternatively, even chocolate ganache goes well with this.

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