Mary Berry’s St Clements Creams Recipe [GUIDE]

Mary Berry’s St Clements Creams are a delightful and elegant dessert inspired by the refreshing flavors of citrus fruits. The name "St Clements" comes from the famous nursery rhyme "Oranges and Lemons," which is believed to be a reference to the bells of the churches in London. The dessert combines the bright, zesty flavors of oranges and lemons with a smooth, velvety cream.

Mary Berry, the beloved British food writer and television personality, is known for her classic, yet approachable recipes. In her St Clements Creams, she creates a perfect harmony of tangy citrus, rich cream, and a touch of sweetness. These creams are often served as a chilled, individual portion dessert, making them ideal for special occasions or a refined finish to a meal.

What makes this dessert stand out is the light and airy texture, which is achieved by folding whipped cream into a citrus-infused base. The flavors of orange and lemon shine through, but it’s not overly tart. The result is a smooth, creamy, and refreshingly citrus-forward treat. If you’re a fan of citrus desserts like lemon meringue or orange sorbet, you’re sure to fall in love with Mary Berry’s St Clements Creams.

Mary Berry’s St Clements Creams Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To recreate Mary Berry’s St Clements Creams at home, you’ll need the following ingredients. These are fairly simple, yet when combined, they create a dessert that’s wonderfully indulgent yet bright.

• Double Cream (Whipping Cream) – 300ml: This is the base for the creamy, luscious texture of the dessert. Double cream has a high-fat content, which gives the St Clements Creams a rich, smooth mouthfeel.
• Mascarpone Cheese – 250g: A creamy Italian cheese that adds richness and body to the cream. Mascarpone provides a slightly tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the citrus.
• Icing Sugar – 75g: This is used to sweeten the dessert without making it too grainy. Icing sugar dissolves quickly, ensuring the texture remains smooth.
• Orange Juice – Freshly squeezed from 2 oranges: The orange juice gives the dessert its signature citrus flavor. Fresh juice is essential for the best flavor-avoid bottled varieties which can be too acidic or flat.
• Lemon Juice – Freshly squeezed from 1 lemon: The lemon adds the necessary tartness to balance the sweetness of the cream and the orange. It also heightens the fresh, zesty flavors.
• Zest of 1 Orange: The zest contributes an aromatic, slightly bitter citrus note that complements the juice and gives the cream a fragrant aroma.
• Zest of 1 Lemon: Similar to the orange zest, lemon zest intensifies the citrus flavor and adds complexity to the dish. The zest also gives the dessert a slightly sharp, fragrant punch.
• Gelatine Sheets – 2 sheets: The gelatine helps set the cream mixture so it holds its shape when served. It ensures that the St Clements Creams maintain a smooth, structured consistency rather than becoming too runny.

Equipment Needed

Making Mary Berry’s St Clements Creams doesn’t require any special equipment, but a few kitchen tools will help you achieve the perfect result. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Mixing Bowls: At least two bowls will be necessary-one for whipping the cream and mascarpone mixture, and one for heating the gelatine and mixing it into the citrus juices.
• Whisk or Electric Mixer: Whisking by hand is possible, but an electric mixer will save time and ensure the cream is whipped to soft peaks, which is key for the creamy texture of this dessert.
• Saucepan: For gently heating the gelatine sheets and melting them into the citrus juice mixture.
• Small Strainer: To strain any pulp or seeds from the orange and lemon juices, ensuring a smooth consistency in your creams.
• Measuring Spoons: Accuracy is essential for the right balance of flavors and texture.
• Serving Glasses or Bowls: You’ll need individual portions for serving. Small glass tumblers or elegant dessert glasses work well.
• Rubber Spatula: For gently folding the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture and preventing the cream from losing its airiness.
• Cling Film or Plastic Wrap: To cover the creams while they set in the fridge.

Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s St Clements Creams

Making Mary Berry’s St Clements Creams is relatively simple, but requires careful attention to detail to get the smooth, velvety texture and balanced citrus flavor. Here’s how to make it:

1. Prepare The Gelatine

   • Soak the gelatine sheets in cold water for about 5 minutes, or until soft.
   • In a small saucepan, gently heat the orange juice and lemon juice over low heat.
   • Squeeze out the excess water from the gelatine sheets and add them to the warm citrus juices. Stir until the gelatine has completely dissolved. Set aside to cool slightly.

2. Whip The Cream

   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk the double cream until it forms soft peaks. Be careful not to overwhip, as it should still have a smooth, spreadable texture.

3. Mix The Mascarpone

   • In a separate bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese with the icing sugar until smooth and creamy. The mascarpone should be light, with no lumps.

4. Combine The Citrus And Mascarpone

   • Add the zest of the orange and lemon to the mascarpone mixture. Stir well to incorporate the citrus oils into the cream.
   • Gently fold in the gelatine-citrus mixture once it’s cool but still liquid, ensuring everything is evenly combined.

5. Fold In The Whipped Cream

   • Gradually fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone-citrus mixture. Use a spatula to gently mix the two together, taking care not to deflate the whipped cream. The goal is to keep the mixture light and airy.

6. Set The Creams

   • Spoon the mixture into individual serving glasses or bowls. Smooth the tops for an elegant finish.
   • Cover with cling film and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the creams to set and achieve the right consistency.

7. Serve

   • Before serving, you can garnish the creams with additional citrus zest or even a few fresh berries if desired.

Tips And Tricks

• Use Fresh Citrus: The flavor of your St Clements Creams depends heavily on the freshness of the orange and lemon juice. Opt for freshly squeezed juice rather than store-bought varieties for the best taste.
• Don’t Overwhip the Cream: When whipping the cream, stop once it forms soft peaks. Overwhipping can cause the cream to separate, and the texture will be compromised.
• Gelatine Tips: If you’re not familiar with using gelatine, it’s essential to dissolve it fully in warm juice to avoid any lumps in your cream. Be careful not to overheat it, as too much heat can break down the gelatine and prevent it from setting.
• Adding a Twist: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of limoncello or Cointreau to the cream mixture. This will give it a delicate citrus liqueur kick, perfect for adult gatherings.
• Chill for Long Enough: To ensure the creams set properly, leave them in the fridge for the full 4 hours, or even overnight. This guarantees that the dessert will hold its shape when served.

Mary Berry’s St Clements Creams are a gorgeous, zesty dessert that showcases the bright and refreshing flavors of citrus. With the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, this creamy dessert is both luxurious and light. Whether served at a dinner party or as a special treat, it’s sure to impress guests with its vibrant flavors and smooth, airy texture.

By following the simple yet effective steps, you can recreate this classic treat at home, adapting it to your own preferences with a few clever twists. Remember, the key is fresh citrus, perfectly whipped cream, and a gentle touch when combining the ingredients. So, the next time you’re craving something bright and creamy, turn to Mary Berry’s St Clements Creams for a refined, citrus-infused dessert that’s bound to delight!

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s St Clements Creams

Mary Berry’s St Clements Creams are a delightful, citrus-flavored dessert that brings together the refreshing zing of oranges and lemons with the rich, smooth texture of a classic cream. While her original recipe is a beautiful creation in itself, there are several easy variations you can try to give it a fresh twist, making it suit your personal taste or seasonal availability.

1. Berry Infusion

   For a burst of color and a deeper fruity flavor, you can replace the orange and lemon juices with mixed berry puree, such as strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries. This variation brings a tangy-sweet complexity to the cream, making it vibrant and even more irresistible. To keep it in the spirit of St Clements, add a bit of lemon zest to balance the sweet berries.

2. Coconut and Lime Twist

   If you’re a fan of tropical flavors, you can transform the St Clements Creams into a coconut and lime dessert. Simply substitute the orange juice with coconut milk and the lemon juice with fresh lime juice. This variation gives the cream a rich, exotic flavor while retaining its smooth, creamy texture. A sprinkle of toasted coconut on top adds a delightful crunch.

3. Ginger Orange Creams

   A spiced version of the original recipe can be created by adding finely grated fresh ginger or ground ginger powder. Ginger pairs beautifully with the citrus flavors, creating a warm, spicy depth that’s perfect for cooler months. You can even switch the lemon juice for a splash of lime for an added kick.

4. Chocolate Orange St Clements Creams

   For those with a sweet tooth, why not introduce a chocolate element to the St Clements Creams? You could melt some dark chocolate and swirl it into the cream mixture before chilling it, or use it as a topping. Chocolate and orange are a classic pairing, and the richness of the chocolate will complement the tanginess of the citrus fruits, creating a more decadent dessert.

5. Raspberry and Mint Infusion

   Try infusing the cream with some fresh raspberries and mint leaves. Blend the raspberries into a puree and fold it into the cream mix to create a marbled effect. A touch of chopped mint can bring an aromatic, refreshing note to the dessert. This variation works particularly well if you are serving the St Clements Creams in summer for a fresh and vibrant twist.

6. Almond and Apricot Variation

   For a nutty, fruity version of the classic, substitute the orange juice with apricot juice or puree, and add finely ground almonds to the cream mixture. The apricot brings a lovely sweetness, while the almonds create a slight nuttiness that complements the citrus base. Top it off with a few slivers of toasted almonds for added texture.

These variations are a wonderful way to adapt Mary Berry’s St Clements Creams to suit different occasions, dietary preferences, or flavor cravings. Each offers a unique spin on the classic, ensuring that every serving is just as delicious as the last.

Storing Leftovers

Mary Berry’s St Clements Creams, with their delicate texture and refreshing flavors, are best enjoyed fresh. However, if you happen to have any leftovers (a rare occurrence!), it’s important to store them properly to maintain their creamy consistency and fresh taste.

1. Refrigeration

   The St Clements Creams should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because the cream contains dairy, it needs to be kept cold to prevent spoilage. Be sure to allow the cream to cool to room temperature before placing it in the fridge to avoid condensation, which can affect the texture. Ideally, it should be eaten within 2-3 days, as the citrus and dairy mixture can start to lose its freshness after this period.

2. Separation and Texture Issues

   If you notice that the cream has begun to separate slightly after refrigeration, give it a gentle stir. While this doesn’t affect the safety or overall flavor, it can change the texture. If this happens, you can also try re-whisking the cream before serving, which will help to restore its smoothness.

3. Freezing for Longer Storage

   If you’re planning to keep your St Clements Creams for a longer period, freezing is an option, though it’s not ideal for preserving the texture perfectly. To freeze, transfer the cream into a freezer-safe container, leaving a little room for expansion. To thaw, move it from the freezer to the refrigerator a few hours before you plan to serve it. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly grainy once defrosted, so it’s best to serve it as a frozen dessert if you plan to freeze it, rather than a creamy, spoonable dessert.

4. Portioning for Convenience

   If you anticipate having leftovers, consider portioning out the St Clements Creams into small individual servings before refrigerating or freezing. This makes it easier to defrost or serve later without having to handle the entire batch, maintaining a more appealing presentation.

By following these storage guidelines, you can extend the life of your St Clements Creams while ensuring that they still taste great when you’re ready to enjoy them.

What To Eat With Mary Berry’s St Clements Creams?

While Mary Berry’s St Clements Creams are perfectly satisfying on their own, pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate the experience even further. Whether you’re serving them as a light dessert after a hearty meal or offering them at a special event, there are plenty of complementary foods that will enhance the citrusy, creamy goodness.

1. Shortbread or Biscotti

   The buttery, crumbly texture of shortbread is the ideal contrast to the smooth and tangy St Clements Creams. A light dusting of powdered sugar on the shortbread adds a touch of sweetness to balance the sharp citrus notes. Alternatively, serve with biscotti for a crunchy, slightly nutty element that adds another layer of flavor to the dessert.

2. Fresh Fruit

   Fresh berries such as raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries pair wonderfully with St Clements Creams, as their tartness complements the citrus. For a more tropical twist, try serving with fresh pineapple or mango slices. A light drizzle of honey or a sprig of mint can finish off the fruit pairing beautifully.

3. Meringue

   Light and airy, meringues provide a perfect textural contrast to the richness of the cream. You can crumble meringue over the top for an elegant garnish, or even serve mini meringue nests alongside the cream for a more indulgent dessert combination.

4. Chocolate or Caramel Sauces

   If you prefer a richer accompaniment, serve the St Clements Creams with a small drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce. The smooth, slightly bitter chocolate balances the bright citrus flavors, while the sweet caramel provides a complementary richness. A sprinkle of sea salt on top of the caramel sauce can provide a delightful sweet-salty contrast.

5. Crisp Baked Pastry

   Serve the St Clements Creams alongside a few delicate pastry bites like puff pastry twists or a small fruit tart. The flaky, crisp texture of the pastry will enhance the creamy texture of the dessert while adding a visual contrast.

6. Lemon or Orange Sorbet

   If you’re looking to keep things light and refreshing, a scoop of lemon or orange sorbet alongside the St Clements Creams offers a zesty, icy texture that complements the citrus flavors in the dessert. The chilled sorbet will also provide a palate-cleansing element.

7. Tea or Champagne

   A delicate, fragrant tea, such as Earl Grey or chamomile, would complement the creamy richness of the dessert, with its gentle floral notes enhancing the citrus. Alternatively, for a more celebratory touch, a glass of crisp Champagne or Prosecco will elevate the dessert to a luxurious level, with the bubbles providing a refreshing contrast to the cream.

By serving Mary Berry’s St Clements Creams with these delightful sides, you can create a multi-layered dessert experience that is sure to impress your guests or satisfy your own sweet cravings.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s St Clements Creams are a wonderful treat that captures the refreshing essence of citrus, combined with the luxurious smoothness of a classic cream dessert. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or try one of the many easy variations, this dessert can be customized to fit your preferences, seasonality, or dietary needs. The beauty of this dessert lies in its versatility-paired with a variety of accompaniments or enjoyed on its own, it always manages to leave a lasting impression.

Proper storage ensures that any leftovers are just as delightful as the first serving, allowing you to enjoy the St Clements Creams for a few more days or even weeks. And when you’re looking to elevate the experience, a few carefully selected pairings-whether they be fresh fruits, pastries, or refreshing beverages-can take this dessert to a new level of enjoyment.

FAQs

What Is Mary Berry’s St Clements Creams Recipe?

Mary Berry’s St Clements Creams recipe is a delightful dessert that combines the refreshing flavors of orange and lemon. It features a tangy citrus cream filling layered in a biscuit base, often topped with whipped cream or zest for extra flavor. The recipe is simple yet elegant, making it perfect for special occasions or as a summer treat.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s St Clements Creams Recipe In Advance?

Yes, you can make Mary Berry’s St Clements Creams recipe in advance. In fact, it’s recommended to allow the dessert to set in the fridge for several hours, or even overnight, to allow the flavors to develop fully and the cream to firm up. This makes it a great option for preparing ahead of a dinner party or family gathering.

Are There Any Variations I Can Try For Mary Berry’s St Clements Creams?

While Mary Berry’s original St Clements Creams recipe is delicious on its own, you can experiment with a few variations. For instance, you can swap the biscuit base for a more indulgent shortbread or even a gluten-free alternative. You could also adjust the citrus balance, using more lemon for a sharper flavor or adding a hint of lime for a unique twist. Additionally, some people enjoy incorporating a splash of limoncello or orange liqueur to elevate the recipe further.