Georgian Honey-Almond Delight (Quick Version)

Ingredients

• 1 cup slivered almonds
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
• Pinch of salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen mixed berries, like raspberries and blueberries

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Spread slivered almonds evenly on sheet.
3. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden and fragrant, stirring halfway through.
4. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
5. In a separate bowl, combine softened butter, honey, and salt. Beat until smooth and creamy.
6. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and well combined
7. Stir in honey-butter mixture with the cooled slivered almonds, together and also with the vanilla extract. Add chopped walnuts (if using).
8. Once you have mixed everything, gently and carefully fold in the fresh berries. This ensures that the berries are distributed evenly throughout the mixture, maintaining their integrity. This will also help prevent them from becoming mushy if the mixture is not carefully blended.
9. Transfer the mixture to small serving dishes or dessert cups.
10. Garnish with extra slivered almonds and possibly a sprinkle of powdered sugar, if desired. Chill for 15 minutes before serving.

Tips

1. Using toasted almonds is highly recommended for better flavour and texture, although this step is skipped for speed.
2. Adjust the amount of honey to your preferred sweetness.
3. Feel free to substitute with other nuts like pistachios, if preferred.
4. For a vegan option, use a vegan butter substitute, such as coconut oil.
5. Be mindful not to overmix the batter after adding the berries, ensuring you don't break their structure. Use a gentle, folding motion instead.

Calories and Macronutrients per Serving (approximate)

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 5 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g