As India lights up with the joyous celebrations of
Rakshabandhan, Ganesh Chaturthi, and Independence Day, there’s a delicious
evolution taking place in traditional kitchens. Familiar sweets are getting
modern, healthier makeovers, and one ingredient is standing out cranberries.
Once seen only on Western plates, vibrant, tart cranberries are now adding
freshness and color to Indian festive desserts.
At the heart of this trend is a dessert that blends
nostalgia with global flavor: the Cranberry Shrikhand Trifle. And leading the
way in this sweet reinvention is none other than Chef Sanjeev Kapoor, who
brings his signature balance of tradition and innovation to the recipe.
“Shrikhand is a timeless classic, but pairing it with
cranberries in a layered trifle makes it festive, exciting, and suitable for
today’s taste preferences,” says Kapoor. “It’s not just about fusion, it’s
about celebrating our heritage while embracing new textures and flavors.”
Cranberry Shrikhand Trifle by Chef Sanjeev Kapoor
Ingredients:
For the Shrikhand Layer:
- 2
cups Hung Curd (Greek yogurt or strained dahi - 4
tbsp Powdered Sugar (adjust to taste) - A few
strands of Saffron soaked in 1 tbsp warm milk - 1/2
tsp Cardamom Powder - 1/4
cup Dried US Cranberries
For the Cake Layer:
- 1 cup
Vanilla Sponge Cake (cut into small cubes or rounds) - 2
tbsp Cranberry Juice or Sugar Syrup (to soak the cake)
For Garnish:
- Dried
cranberries - Chopped
Pistachios or Almonds - Rose
Petals or Silver Leaf (optional)
Method:
- Make
the Shrikhand:
In a bowl, whisk the hung curd until smooth. Add powdered sugar, saffron
milk, and cardamom powder. Mix well. Fold in the dried US cranberries.
Refrigerate for 30–60 minutes.
- Assemble
the Trifle:
In individual dessert glasses, start with a layer of sponge cake pieces.
Lightly drizzle with cranberry juice or syrup. Add a generous layer of the
chilled shrikhand. Repeat layers if desired.
- Garnish
& Serve:
Top with more cranberries, chopped nuts, and decorative garnishes like
rose petals or silver leaf. Chill before serving.
This festive season, bring home a dessert that’s equal
parts tradition and innovation rich, refreshing, and unforgettable.
