Crunchy Citrus Dessert

Prep: 30 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A refreshing frozen citrus dessert with crunchy oat topping and whipped cream, ideal for warm days and entertaining guests seeking a tangy, sweet treat with texture.

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Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup margarine
  • 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups plain oat flakes
  • 1/3 cup chopped walnuts
  • 4 eggs, separated
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • Juice and rind of 1/2 lemon
  • Juice and rind of 1 orange

Instructions

  1. In a skillet, melt butter and stir in brown sugar until dissolved.
  2. Add oat flakes and chopped walnuts, and cook over low heat until nuts are toasted and oat flakes are glazed.
  3. Remove from heat and set aside.
  4. In a bowl, beat egg whites until foamy.
  5. Gradually add granulated sugar and beat until stiff and glossy.
  6. In another bowl, beat egg yolks until light and fluffy.
  7. Mix in the juice and rind of 1/2 lemon and 1 orange.
  8. Whip the cream until blended.
  9. Sprinkle 2/3 of the oat flake mixture in a 9-inch oblong pan.
  10. Top with citrus mixture.
  11. Sprinkle remaining oat flakes on top.
  12. Cover and freeze until firm, about 2 to 4 hours.
  13. Remove from freezer 20 to 30 minutes before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you want a nut-free version, you can substitute chopped walnuts with sunflower seeds. Make sure to beat the egg whites until they hold stiff peaks for the best texture. If you prefer a sweeter dessert, feel free to increase the granulated sugar slightly. This dessert also pairs well with a side of Delicious Waffle Mix for a brunch treat.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this crunchy citrus dessert as a refreshing end to a meal or at a gathering. It pairs nicely with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a delightful twist, try serving alongside Granny's No Crust Coconut Pie for a citrus and coconut flavor combination that guests will love.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer. To serve, remove the dessert from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes before slicing. This will make it easier to cut and enjoy. Avoid refreezing thawed portions to maintain the best texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Crunchy Citrus Dessert contains roughly 352 calories, with 3g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 21g fat.

352 kcal 18% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.9g 6% DV
Total Fat 20.6g 26% DV
Carbs 42g 15% DV
Fiber 1.7g 6% DV
Sugar 30.4g 61% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 147.1mg 6% DV
Potassium 166.9mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 17.7mg 6% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 11.3mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 2.8mg 3% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 56.1mg 4% DV
Iron 0.9mg 5% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Egg Tree nuts

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 different citrus fruits in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different citrus fruits like lime or grapefruit for unique flavors. Just ensure you adjust the sugar if using sweeter or more tart fruits to maintain balance in the dessert.

How can I make this dessert vegan?

To make this dessert vegan, substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water as a binding agent, and use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. Ensure the margarine is dairy-free as well.

What can I do if my oat flake mixture isn't crunchy?

If your oat flake mixture isn't crunchy enough, try toasting the oats and nuts for additional time in the skillet until they reach the desired texture. Just be careful not to burn them, and stir frequently to ensure even toasting.

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).

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