Adrienne'S Delight(Ms. Thermon Smith, Little Rock, Arkansas)
A creamy, tangy cheese mold with raisins and almonds, perfect as a unique appetizer or cold dessert for gatherings, offering rich flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Let cream cheese, butter, and sour cream come to room temperature.
- Cream well and add sugar.
- Soften gelatin in cold water, then dissolve over hot water and add to the cream cheese mixture.
- Add raisins, almonds, and lemon rind to the mixture.
- Pour into a quart mold and refrigerate until firm.
- Unmold the chilled mixture and serve with saltine crackers. It can also be frozen after unmolding.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese, butter, and sour cream are at room temperature before mixing. If you don't have white raisins, golden raisins can be used as a substitute. Additionally, slivered almonds can be replaced with chopped walnuts or pecans for a different flavor. This dish can also be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for gatherings or when serving alongside dishes like Topsy-Turvey Coffee Cake.
Serving Suggestions
This delightful cream cheese mixture pairs wonderfully with saltine crackers, adding a nice crunch. You can also serve it with fresh fruit like apple slices or grapes for a refreshing contrast. For an elegant touch, consider garnishing with additional lemon zest or fresh mint. It can be a great appetizer or a light dessert option for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you wish to keep it longer, you can freeze the unmolded mixture wrapped in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying again with saltine crackers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Adrienne'S Delight(Ms. Thermon Smith, Little Rock, Arkansas) contains roughly 317 calories, with 8g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of iron (17% of the Daily Value), protein (16% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of nut in this recipe?
Absolutely! While slivered almonds are traditional, you can easily substitute them with walnuts, pecans, or even pistachios for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the nuts are chopped finely to blend well with the creamy texture.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
Yes! You can substitute reduced-fat cream cheese and sour cream to decrease the overall fat content. Additionally, using a sugar alternative can further lighten the recipe while still maintaining the delicious taste.
How can I add more flavor to this dish?
Consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a bit of fresh lemon juice to enhance the overall flavor. You could also incorporate finely chopped herbs like dill or chives for a savory twist, making it a versatile option for various occasions.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).