Mary Berry’s Peach Melba is a classic British dessert with a rich history, blending smooth vanilla ice cream, poached peaches, and a luxurious raspberry sauce. This iconic dessert, created by French chef Auguste Escoffier in the late 19th century, was originally made in honor of Australian soprano Nellie Melba, who was performing in London at the time. Over the years, Peach Melba has evolved into a staple in many dessert menus worldwide.
Mary Berry’s version stays true to the traditional flavors, yet her expertise shines through in the way she elevates the ingredients and refines the presentation. The dessert’s balance of flavors-sweet, tart, creamy, and fruity-creates a refreshing, indulgent treat that is both simple to make and stunning to serve. It’s the perfect combination of elegance and nostalgia, making it an enduring favorite in the world of dessert.
Mary Berry’s Peach Melba Recipe
Ingredients Needed
To create this stunning dessert, you’ll need a few essential ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need to bring Mary Berry’s Peach Melba to life:
- Ripe Peaches – Fresh, juicy peaches are the star of the dish. They are poached in syrup to soften their texture and enhance their sweetness. If fresh peaches aren’t in season, you can also use canned peaches, though fresh will give a more vibrant flavor and better texture.
- Vanilla Ice Cream – The creamy base of the dish, vanilla ice cream provides a luscious, smooth contrast to the fruit and sauce. For the best results, go for a high-quality, creamy ice cream with real vanilla, as it enhances the overall flavor.
- Fresh Raspberries – Raspberries lend a fresh, slightly tart flavor to the sauce. You can also use frozen raspberries if fresh ones are unavailable, but the color and flavor might be a bit different.
- Sugar – Used to create the poaching syrup and the raspberry sauce, sugar helps balance the tartness of the fruit and adds sweetness without overpowering the dish.
- Water – For the poaching syrup, water is needed to dissolve the sugar and gently cook the peaches.
- Lemon Juice – A squeeze of lemon juice is added to the raspberry sauce, giving it a zesty kick and brightening the overall flavor.
- Vanilla Extract – While the ice cream is vanilla-flavored, a small amount of vanilla extract in the raspberry sauce can add depth and enhance the sweetness of the berries.
Equipment Needed
Mary Berry’s Peach Melba doesn’t require any special tools, but a few key pieces of kitchen equipment will make the process easier and ensure a perfect result. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Saucepan – A medium-sized saucepan is needed for poaching the peaches in syrup. You’ll also use it to make the raspberry sauce, so a heavy-bottomed pan is ideal to prevent burning.
- Slotted Spoon – After poaching the peaches, a slotted spoon will help you carefully remove them from the syrup without losing any juice.
- Blender or Food Processor – For making the smooth raspberry sauce, a blender or food processor will help puree the raspberries and blend them with the sugar and lemon juice.
- Ice Cream Scoop – An ice cream scoop is handy for serving up perfectly round scoops of vanilla ice cream, ensuring that every serving is equal and elegant.
- Serving Dishes – Individual serving bowls or elegant glass dishes work best for plating this dessert, allowing the layers of fruit, ice cream, and sauce to be visible and appealing.
- Knife and Peeler – You’ll need a sharp knife to peel the peaches before poaching them. A vegetable peeler works best for removing the skin quickly and easily.
Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Peach Melba
Creating Mary Berry’s Peach Melba is a relatively straightforward process, but the key is to work with care to bring out the best flavors. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this dessert at home:
Step 1: Prepare The Poached Peaches
- Peel the Peaches – Start by peeling the peaches. If they’re ripe, the skin should come off easily. If you’re struggling, you can blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds and then transfer them to ice water. This will help the skin slip off with ease.
- Poach the Peaches – In a saucepan, combine 300ml of water with 100g of sugar, and bring it to a simmer. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Add the peeled peaches to the saucepan, making sure they’re submerged in the syrup. Let them cook gently for about 10-15 minutes, until they’re soft but still hold their shape.
- Remove the Peaches – Once poached, use a slotted spoon to remove the peaches from the syrup. Set them aside to cool slightly before cutting them into halves or quarters, removing the stone.
Step 2: Make The Raspberry Sauce
- Puree the Raspberries – In a blender or food processor, combine 200g of fresh raspberries with 2 tablespoons of sugar and a squeeze of lemon juice. Blend until smooth.
- Strain the Sauce – To ensure the sauce is smooth and seedless, strain the raspberry puree through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl. Use the back of a spoon to press out all the juice.
- Adjust the Flavor – Taste the sauce, and if necessary, add more sugar or lemon juice to balance the tartness and sweetness to your liking. Set the sauce aside.
Step 3: Assemble The Dessert
- Scoop the Ice Cream – Place a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream into each serving bowl. You want the ice cream to be soft enough to scoop easily, but not melted.
- Add the Peaches – Place the poached peach slices around the ice cream, either whole or cut into halves or quarters, depending on your preference.
- Drizzle with Raspberry Sauce – Spoon the fresh raspberry sauce generously over the peaches and ice cream. The vibrant red sauce will contrast beautifully with the creamy ice cream and golden peaches.
- Garnish (Optional) – For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with a few fresh raspberries, mint leaves, or a drizzle of fresh cream.
Tips And Tricks
- Use Ripe Peaches – The flavor of the peaches is crucial. Ensure that they’re ripe but not overripe, as overripe peaches can become mushy during poaching.
- Make Ahead – If you’re preparing this dessert in advance, you can poach the peaches and make the raspberry sauce a day before serving. Just store them in airtight containers in the fridge, and assemble the dessert shortly before serving.
- Raspberry Sauce Variations – If you prefer a smoother raspberry sauce, you can strain the sauce even more by passing it through cheesecloth. If you like a more textured sauce, leave some seeds for an added bite.
- Serving Tips – For a more elegant presentation, you could serve the Peach Melba in individual glass cups or dessert glasses, where the layers of fruit and sauce are clearly visible.
- Substitutes for Ice Cream – If you’re looking for a dairy-free or lighter alternative, try using sorbet (lemon or raspberry sorbet would pair well) or a coconut-based ice cream.
Mary Berry’s Peach Melba is a timeless dessert that combines simplicity with elegance. With its soft poached peaches, creamy vanilla ice cream, and tangy raspberry sauce, it provides a delightful burst of flavors in every bite. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or as a treat for yourself, this dessert never fails to impress. The balance of sweet, tart, and creamy is a perfect finale to any meal, and its vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes as much as the palate. By following Mary Berry’s recipe, you’ll recreate this classic dessert with ease and sophistication, making it a memorable part of any gathering.
Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Peach Melba
Mary Berry’s Peach Melba is a timeless dessert, known for its elegant simplicity and delightful balance of fresh fruit, velvety cream, and tangy raspberry sauce. While the classic recipe is a perfect combination of flavors, it offers plenty of room for creative twists to suit your preferences or add a unique touch to the dish. Here are some easy variations to consider when making this beloved dessert:
1. Swap The Peaches For Other Stone Fruits
Peaches are the star of Peach Melba, but you can easily swap them out for other stone fruits if you’re looking for a different flavor profile. Try using nectarines, plums, or even apricots. The juicy flesh and slightly tart notes of these fruits still pair wonderfully with the raspberry sauce and cream, offering a fresh and seasonal twist.
2. Raspberry Sauce Variations
While raspberry sauce is traditional in Peach Melba, you can experiment with other fruits or flavor profiles. A strawberry coulis or blackcurrant sauce would be equally delicious. For a more exotic take, try making a mango or passionfruit sauce. You can also infuse the sauce with a bit of liqueur like Grand Marnier or Chambord for a more sophisticated flavor.
3. Layer With A Different Cream
Although the classic recipe uses vanilla ice cream with whipped cream, you can easily switch it up to suit your tastes. A scoop of pistachio ice cream or coconut-flavored ice cream can add depth to the dessert, giving it a more nutty or tropical flair. For a dairy-free variation, coconut milk-based ice cream can provide that smooth texture with a subtle coconut flavor.
4. Add Crunch And Texture
For a more complex mouthfeel, consider adding a crunchy element to the dish. Crushed amaretti biscuits, toasted almonds, or candied hazelnuts sprinkled on top of the peaches and raspberry sauce can bring an unexpected and delightful contrast to the smooth cream and soft fruit. For an even more luxurious option, drizzle some caramel shards over the top to introduce a sweet, crunchy texture.
5. Infused Syrups Or Spices
To elevate the dessert, you could infuse the peach syrup or raspberry sauce with a subtle spice, like cinnamon, star anise, or vanilla. A touch of ginger in the raspberry sauce could also add warmth, complementing the peaches in a comforting yet unexpected way. If you enjoy herbal flavors, a hint of basil or mint in the raspberry sauce could bring a refreshing, garden-fresh taste.
6. Peach Melba With A Savory Twist
For a savory version, try using roasted peaches instead of fresh ones. The roasting process caramelizes the natural sugars in the fruit, adding a rich, deep flavor that pairs beautifully with a tangy cream cheese-based filling instead of traditional ice cream. This could be an interesting option for a summer appetizer or a savory-sweet twist on the original.
Storing Leftovers
Although Peach Melba is best enjoyed fresh, sometimes you’ll have leftovers, especially if you’ve made a large batch for a gathering or celebration. Here’s how to store the components of this dessert to keep them fresh for the next day:
1. Storing The Peach And Raspberry Sauce
If you have leftover peaches or raspberry sauce, it’s best to store them separately. Place the peaches in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for up to 1-2 days. If you’ve added any syrup or glaze to the peaches, it may cause them to become a bit soggy, so be sure to store them without the added liquids to maintain their texture.
The raspberry sauce can also be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If the sauce thickens upon refrigeration, you can reheat it gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to bring it back to its original consistency.
2. Storing Ice Cream
If you’ve prepared Peach Melba with ice cream, the ice cream itself will typically keep well in the freezer. Just make sure the ice cream is tightly sealed to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it soften slightly at room temperature before serving for a smoother, creamier texture.
3. Whipped Cream Storage
If you have leftover whipped cream, be aware that it can lose its texture and become watery after sitting in the fridge for a while. It’s best to store the whipped cream in an airtight container and consume it within 1 day. You can re-whisk it before serving if needed to restore some of its volume and fluffiness.
4. Freezing The Components
If you want to extend the shelf life of your Peach Melba components, consider freezing the individual parts. Peaches can be frozen after peeling and slicing. The raspberry sauce can also be frozen, though it might change in texture slightly after thawing. Ice cream, of course, can be frozen indefinitely, while whipped cream should not be frozen, as it tends to separate and lose its texture.
What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Peach Melba?
Peach Melba is a rich, decadent dessert that pairs well with lighter or savory accompaniments to balance its sweetness. Here are some ideas for what to serve alongside this indulgent treat:
1. Light Biscuits Or Scones
A warm, slightly crumbly biscuit or scone, lightly buttered or served with clotted cream, makes a perfect pairing with Peach Melba. The mild, subtly sweet flavor of the scones complements the richness of the ice cream and the tartness of the raspberry sauce, without overwhelming the palate.
2. A Fresh Salad
For a refreshing contrast, a simple green salad with a citrus dressing can provide a light, zesty counterpoint to the rich dessert. A salad of mixed greens, arugula, and a hint of lemon can help cleanse the palate before or after indulging in the sweet dessert.
3. Prosecco Or Champagne
For a touch of elegance, pair your Peach Melba with a glass of sparkling wine, such as Prosecco or Champagne. The effervescence and crisp acidity of the wine help to balance the sweetness of the dessert and cut through its richness, making it an ideal choice for a celebratory occasion.
4. Cheese Plate
If you’re looking to serve a more unconventional but sophisticated pairing, a cheese plate featuring soft cheeses like brie, goat cheese, or mascarpone can create a delightful contrast. The creamy texture of these cheeses pairs wonderfully with the fruity sweetness of the Peach Melba, while their mild tang balances the richness of the dessert.
5. Crisp Shortbread Or Biscotti
Another simple but tasty pairing could be a few pieces of crisp shortbread or lightly toasted biscotti. These crunchy, buttery treats add a satisfying texture when eaten with the soft fruit and cream of Peach Melba, and they help provide some variety in each bite.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Peach Melba is the epitome of a refined yet simple dessert that captures the essence of summer in every spoonful. Its combination of juicy peaches, tangy raspberry sauce, and smooth cream creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that are universally loved. Whether you’re sticking to the traditional recipe or experimenting with creative variations, Peach Melba offers endless possibilities for customization.
The dish’s versatility also makes it a wonderful choice for entertaining, as it can be paired with everything from light appetizers to bubbly champagne. And if you do end up with leftovers, storing them properly ensures that you can enjoy the treat for days to come.
FAQs
What Are The Main Ingredients For Mary Berry’s Peach Melba?
The main ingredients for Mary Berry’s Peach Melba are ripe peaches, raspberry sauce, vanilla ice cream, and whipped cream. The recipe typically includes fresh or tinned peaches, a homemade raspberry coulis, and a generous scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream to complement the delicate flavors of the fruit and sauce.
How Do You Prepare The Peaches In Mary Berry’s Peach Melba Recipe?
To prepare the peaches for Mary Berry’s Peach Melba, you can either blanch fresh peaches in boiling water to easily remove their skins or use tinned peaches in syrup for convenience. After peeling, slice the peaches in half and remove the stone. If you’re using fresh peaches, lightly poaching them in syrup can enhance their flavor before assembling the dish.
Can I Make Mary Berry’s Peach Melba Recipe In Advance?
Yes, Mary Berry’s Peach Melba can be prepared in advance, but there are a few steps to consider. You can prepare the raspberry coulis, whip the cream, and peel the peaches a day before serving. However, it’s best to assemble the dish with the ice cream just before serving to prevent it from melting. If you’re planning to serve it later, store the components separately in the fridge until ready to assemble.
