Baked Yoghurt with Poached Fruit

Baked Greek Yogurt with Poached Fruit: A Refreshing Summer Dessert
As the temperatures rise and summer's bounty of fruits becomes more abundant, there's a growing desire for desserts that are not only refreshing but also nutritious. Enter baked Greek yogurt with poached fruit, a dessert that beautifully marries creamy, tangy yogurt with the natural sweetness of poached fruit. This dish is a perfect blend of flavor and health benefits, making it an ideal choice for those looking to indulge without compromising on their wellness goals.

The Nutritional Powerhouse of Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt has earned its reputation as a superfood, and for good reason. It's packed with protein, probiotics, and essential nutrients, making it a valuable addition to any diet. When baked, Greek yogurt takes on a rich, custard-like texture that is both satisfying and indulgent.

High in Protein: Greek yogurt is notably higher in protein compared to regular yogurt, providing around 10 grams of protein per serving. Protein is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall health. Including high-protein foods in your diet can help keep you fuller for longer, making baked Greek yogurt a satiating dessert option.

Probiotic-Rich: Greek yogurt is also a great source of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that support gut health. A healthy gut is crucial for digestion, immunity, and overall well-being. Consuming probiotic-rich foods like Greek yogurt can help maintain a balanced gut microbiome, which in turn supports overall health.

Rich in Calcium: Calcium is vital for strong bones and teeth, and Greek yogurt is an excellent source of this essential mineral. Regular consumption of calcium-rich foods like Greek yogurt can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis and support bone health as you age.

Lower in Sugar: Unlike many traditional desserts, baked Greek yogurt is lower in sugar, especially when made with plain, unsweetened yogurt. This makes it a healthier option for those looking to reduce their sugar intake without sacrificing flavor.

The Health Benefits of Poached Fruit

Poached fruit is a simple yet elegant way to enjoy the natural sweetness of summer fruits. The poaching process involves gently simmering fruit in a liquid, often water, juice, or wine, with the addition of spices like cinnamon, vanilla, or star anise. This method softens the fruit, enhancing its flavors and creating a tender, luscious texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy baked yogurt.

Nutrient-Rich: Summer fruits like berries, peaches, and plums are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These nutrients play a crucial role in maintaining good health, supporting everything from skin health to immune function. By poaching the fruit, you preserve its nutritional value while intensifying its natural flavors.

Low in Calories: Poached fruit is naturally low in calories, making it a guilt-free addition to any dessert. The gentle cooking process helps to release the fruit's natural sugars, allowing you to enjoy its sweetness without the need for added sugars.

High in Fiber: Many fruits are high in dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health. Fiber helps to regulate digestion, prevent constipation, and support a healthy gut. Including poached fruit in your diet is an easy way to boost your fiber intake.

Versatile and Customizable: One of the best things about poached fruit is its versatility. You can use a wide variety of fruits, from apples and pears to cherries and apricots, depending on what's in season. You can also customize the poaching liquid and spices to suit your taste preferences, making this dessert endlessly adaptable.

A Symphony of Flavors: Baked Greek Yogurt with Poached Fruit

The combination of baked Greek yogurt and poached fruit creates a dessert that is both nourishing and bursting with flavor. The tanginess of the yogurt is perfectly complemented by the natural sweetness of the poached fruit, resulting in a harmonious balance that is both satisfying and refreshing.

Creamy and Custard-Like: When Greek yogurt is baked, it transforms into a custard-like texture that is rich and creamy, yet light on the palate. This makes it an ideal base for the sweet, juicy poached fruit that tops it.

Naturally Sweet and Tangy: The contrast between the tangy yogurt and the sweet fruit creates a dynamic flavor profile that is both refreshing and indulgent. The natural sweetness of the poached fruit eliminates the need for added sugars, making this dessert a healthier option.

Aromatic and Flavorful: The spices used in the poaching liquid, such as cinnamon, vanilla, or star anise, add a layer of complexity to the dessert. These warm, aromatic spices enhance the natural flavors of the fruit and create a fragrant, mouthwatering experience with every bite.

A Refreshing Summer Dessert

Baked Greek yogurt with poached fruit is a dessert that truly shines in the summer months. The combination of cool, creamy yogurt and tender, juicy fruit is a refreshing way to end a meal or enjoy as a midday snack. This dessert is light enough to enjoy even on the hottest days, yet satisfying enough to curb your sweet cravings.

Perfect for Entertaining

If you’re hosting a summer gathering, baked Greek yogurt with poached fruit is an excellent choice for a crowd-pleasing dessert. It’s elegant enough to impress your guests, yet simple enough to prepare in advance. The versatility of the fruit options allows you to tailor the dessert to suit the season and your guests’ preferences.

Serve it in individual ramekins or as a large dish for sharing, and garnish with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of nuts for added texture and flavor. Your guests will appreciate the balance of flavors and the healthy twist on a classic dessert.

A Dessert for All Occasions

Whether you’re looking for a healthy dessert option for your family or a sophisticated treat for entertaining, baked Greek yogurt with poached fruit fits the bill. It’s a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed at any time of day, whether as a refreshing breakfast, a light afternoon snack, or a satisfying end to a meal.

Indulge in Flavors and Textures

Baked Greek yogurt with poached fruit is a testament to the idea that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring or bland. This dessert offers a combination of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors that are sure to satisfy your taste buds while nourishing your body. With the nutritional benefits of Greek yogurt and the natural goodness of poached fruit, this dessert is a perfect way to enjoy the best that summer has to offer. So, the next time you’re craving something sweet, reach for this refreshing and nutritious treat, and indulge in the wholesome flavors of summer.

INGREDIENTS

Baked Yoghurt

• 2 cups full fat Greek style yoghurt

• 1 cup (1 x 380gm) condensed milk

• ¼ cup milk powder (I used powdered coconut milk)

• 2 tbsp of heavy cream

• ½ tsp finely grated zest of an orange

• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Poached Pears

• 1 cup dried hibiscus flowers* contents of two hibiscus tea bags

• 2 whole star anise

• 5 cardamom pods

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 5 cloves

• ⅓ cup of raw Manuka honey (we used MGO 85+)

• Peel of one orange

• 1 litre water

• ½ cup of wine or more of you want it boozy

• 6 small to medium firm pears, peeled and cored, leaving stems on**

 

 

Baked Yoghurt Directions

1. Pre-heat the oven to 350°F (180 °C). In a bowl combine all of the above ingredients and whisk well until very smooth and combined.
   
   
2. Pour into a wide flatish ceramic or cast iron oven proof dish or 4 ramekins. Place the dish in a high sided roasting tray and fill the tray with hot water to approx ½-¾ of the way up the sides creating a water bath.
   
   
3. Bake for 40 minutes until starting to turn golden and set and then turn off the oven and allow to cool completely. If I make it at night I just leave it in the oven over night, otherwise remove it from the oven and take it out of the water bath and allow it to cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate until cold and serve. This can be made the day before.

 

Poached pear directions 

In a large pot, place the hibiscus flowers (or tea bags), spices, Manuka honey and water. Bring to a boil on medium heat and simmer for 10 minutes, so that all the flavours infuse into the water.

Add the prepared pears and poach at a very low simmer for 20-25 minutes, turning the pears frequently for an even colour, until tender but not too soft (a well poached pear should be easily sliced & eaten with just a spoon. The poaching time will vary depending on the ripeness of the pears). Take the pot off the heat and leave the pears to cool in the poaching liquid, turning them occasionally.

Remove the pears from the liquid onto a plate, strain the liquid (don’t throw it away!) & discard the hibiscus flowers and spices.