summer berries

What to do with summer berries that are about to go bad?

One of the easiest ways to save fruit is to make a quick jam. My figs were fading fast so I cooked them with the ingredients below. Perfect served over your favorite soft cheese, or as an accompaniment to any charcuterie platter. Or share it:  Put the jam in a jelly jar, tie a ribbon around it and its a lovely hostess gift.

Fig Jam

makes about 1 cup

  • 1 cup chopped figs

  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar

  • 1 tablespoon La Belle Orange or Grand Marnier

Place all ingredients in a small saucepan and simmer on low heat until the figs are almost completely broken down, about 15 to 20 minutes.  Stir occasionally.  Great hot, room temperature, or cold. 

Bread Pudding

serves 6-8

  • about 5 to 6 cups of leftover breakfast bread or other sweet bread or cake you have on hand. Cinnamon rolls, birthday cake, banana bread, etc. All are perfect. Cut into smallish chunks. They don't have to be even-an interesting texture is a good thing.

  • 8 oz cream cheese

  • 1/2 cup sugar

  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

  • 1/2 cup whole milk

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 3 eggs

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and spray your favorite casserole dish with non stick cooking spray.

Use a stand up mixer with the paddle attachment and cream together the cream cheese, sugar and vanilla. Add the rest of the ingredients and mix until smooth.  Occasionally scrape down the sides of the bowl so that you don't get a lumpy mixture.

Place the leftover cake into the casserole dish and spread evenly. Pour the wet mixture over  top and allow to sit for at least 30 minutes and up to around 2 hours.  This is good to do right before starting dinner.  Once in the oven, bake for about 30 minutes, or until lightly browned on top and pulling away from the sides of the dish.

Serve warm and with your favorite ice cream or gelato.

Dessert, AppsDena RegerComment