Yes, this is a thing. This insanely delicious, and truly customizable dessert is the next big thing that you should make. Like now.
Quark is a new addition to the Aperitivo cheese case. It is a mild, slightly tangy and creamy European-style fresh cheese that is similar to old-fashioned cream cheese. It’s like Greek yogurt and cream cheese had a baby. It comes from the amazing people at Vermont Creamery, and we are excited to be able to offer it to you.
While Quark can be used in a multitude of sweet and savory applications – think; stirred into soup, topped on granola, mixed in mashed potatoes – in this recipe, it’s folded with whipped cream, honey and a sweet jam, then frozen.
It would hard-pressed to say that any jam wouldn’t be delicious in this recipe. Sweet pepper, tomato jalapeño or Kalamata fig wouldn’t be first on the list, but who knows. They could work! No matter which jam you choose, 2-6 ounces would be enough to use.
The honey in this recipe is more than just acting as the sweetener. The Italian Cherry Blossom honey adds a floral complexity to the dessert that gives it a depth that is unmatched by commercial honey. If the honey is a bit crystallized, place the entire jar in a large bowl and fill with hot water. Let the jar sit in the water for a few minutes to gently warm up.
Cheese, Honey and Jam Ice Cream
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup Ritrovo Selections Italian Cherry Blossom honey
- 1 (8-oz.) container Vermont Creamery Quark
- 1 small jar Eat This! Spiced Caramel Pear Jam or a few ounces of any other sweet jam
- Kosher salt
- Crunchy salt, optional
Spray a 9×4 loaf pan with cooking spray and lay in a large piece of plastic wrap.
Pour heavy cream in a large bowl – Cold bowls and cold cream make whipping easier! Whip the cream using a handheld beater, a stand mixer with a whisk attachment or a whisk and good ole elbow grease. Whip until you see stiff peaks.
To that bowl, gently fold in the Quark. Once combined, fold in the honey and Spiced Caramel Pear jam and a pinch of salt, leaving streaks of honey and jam throughout.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and place in the freezer. Freeze for 2-3 hours.
Scoop into bowls and serve. Sprinkle with crunchy salt if desired.
*This can be made one-week ahead. Tightly cover and let thaw in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before serving.
