Also see: Interesting desserts to make with bread
From traditional South African favourites to fruity treats, several easy desserts can add a festive touch to your Christmas table.
Here are five simple recipes to try this festive season.
1. Peppermint Crisp fridge tart
A South African favourite, Peppermint Crisp tart is a popular choice because it requires no baking and can be prepared the day before.
Ingredients:
- 2 packets Tennis biscuits
- 1 tin caramel treat
- 250ml fresh cream
- 1 slab Peppermint Crisp chocolate
Method:
Whip the cream until thick, then gently fold in the caramel treat. Crush or grate the chocolate. Arrange a layer of Tennis biscuits in a serving dish, spread some caramel mixture over them and sprinkle with chocolate.
Repeat the layers and finish with chocolate. Refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight before serving.
2. Christmas fruit trifle
A colourful trifle makes an attractive addition to the Christmas dessert table. It is also easy to customise with seasonal fruit.
Ingredients:
- 1 ready-made sponge cake
- 1 packet jelly, prepared and cooled
- 2 cups prepared custard
- 1 cup mixed fruit
- 250ml fresh cream
Method:
Cut the sponge cake into cubes and arrange them in a glass bowl. Add layers of jelly, custard and mixed fruit. Repeat until the bowl is filled. Whip the cream and spread it over the top. Decorate with fresh strawberries or cherries and refrigerate before serving.
Also see: Iconic Middle Eastern desserts to try out
3. No-bake chocolate cheesecake
For chocolate lovers, this cheesecake is a delicious option that does not require an oven.
Ingredients:
- 1 packet of chocolate biscuits
- 80g melted butter
- 250g cream cheese
- ½ cup icing sugar
- 1 cup whipped cream
Method:
Crush the biscuits and mix them with melted butter. Press the mixture into a cake tin and refrigerate. Beat the cream cheese and icing sugar until smooth, then fold in the whipped cream.
Spread the filling over the biscuit base and refrigerate until firm. Decorate with melted chocolate or berries.
4. Fresh fruit and ice cream bowls
For something lighter after a filling Christmas lunch, serve fresh fruit with ice cream.
Ingredients:
- Strawberries
- Seedless grapes
- Mango
- Kiwi fruit
- Vanilla ice cream
Method:
Wash and prepare the fruit, cutting larger pieces into bite-sized portions. Divide between individual bowls, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream and serve immediately.
5. Easy chocolate mousse
Chocolate mousse can be prepared ahead of time and served in individual glasses.
Ingredients:
- 200g milk or dark chocolate
- 250ml fresh cream
Method:
Melt the chocolate gently and allow it to cool slightly. Whip the cream until soft peaks form, then fold in the chocolate. Spoon into glasses and refrigerate for at least two hours. Decorate with chocolate shavings before serving.
Make dessert preparation easier
Preparing desserts ahead of time can reduce the pressure on Christmas Day. Fridge tarts, trifles and cheesecakes can be made the night before, leaving more time to enjoy the celebrations with loved ones.
