Freeze-dried raspberries

Berries in chocolate are an elegant dessert that combines the natural sweetness of fresh berries with the rich flavor of white and dark chocolate. This exquisite recipe originates from classic European cuisine, where the harmony of flavors plays a key role. Blueberries gently dipped in white chocolate and then coated with dark chocolate create a graceful contrast of textures and shades. Raspberries filled with white chocolate and adorned with pistachios or freeze-dried berries add nutty and fruity notes. Perfect for romantic evenings, festive gatherings, or simply as a refined complement to a glass of sparkling wine. This dessert not only pleases the eye but also leaves an unforgettable aftertaste of luxury and tenderness.

All you need is two bars of chocolate, dark and white, a basket of fresh strawberries and a microwave. Melting chocolate in the microwave is a piece of cake, then all you have to do is dip the berries in it: first in one, then in the other, then a spectacular marble pattern will appear on the strawberries. This recipe uses freeze-dried raspberries, which can be easily bought on any marketplace, but if you want, you can replace them with coconut flakes or almond petals: they are even easier to find.

Mikhail Kurokhtin, chef of the Midsummer restaurant, shared the recipe with us.

Kulich is a traditional Russian Easter pastry symbolizing joy and the bright holiday. This version is made in a multicooker, making it especially soft and airy. The yeast dough with cream adds tenderness, while the combination of raisins, candied fruits, and cognac fills the kulich with a rich flavor and light fruity notes. The marshmallow glaze adds sweetness and softness, while freeze-dried berries provide a subtle tartness and vibrant decorative accent. This kulich is perfect for festive gatherings and pairs wonderfully with tea or coffee. It is tender, aromatic, with pleasant moisture inside—a true decoration for Easter.

The 'Rose' pancake cake with raspberry cream is an elegant combination of airy pancakes and delicate berry cream, embodying the art of Russian cuisine. Its shape resembles a blooming rose, symbolizing grace and sophistication. The recipe's origins trace back to the traditions of creating layered desserts where each element absorbs the aromas of the others. The cake's taste is a harmony of sweetness and the light tartness of raspberries, complemented by the creamy softness of cottage cheese. This dessert is perfect for special occasions, impressing not only with its flavor but also its appearance. It is served chilled to maintain the texture of each layer while fully revealing its aroma. The sprinkle of freeze-dried raspberries adds completeness to the composition, adding a light fruity note to each piece.

Taras Kirienko, chef of the Touché wine bar, shared the recipe with us.

Pink glaze for kulich is a delicate, airy decoration that adds elegance and the freshness of spring shades to festive baking. The tradition of decorating kulich with glaze has roots in ancient Russian rituals, where the snow-white coating symbolized purity and solemnity. In this recipe, the classic glaze takes on an exquisite pink hue thanks to the addition of food coloring. Powdered sugar ensures a smooth and silky texture, and the intensity of color can be adjusted to taste. The glaze is complemented by delicate edible flowers, crunchy freeze-dried berries, and sugar pearls, making each kulich a true work of art. This glaze not only pleases the eye but also adds a light caramel sweetness to the baked goods, creating a perfect combination with the softness of the kulich dough.

Lemon tart with crystal jelly is a true embodiment of elegance in French pastry tradition. It features a delicate shortcrust pastry that is fragile and aromatic thanks to almond flour. The secret of this dessert lies in the lemon jelly with agar-agar, giving the tart transparency and lightness. Its fresh, invigorating taste captivates from the first bite, balancing sweetness with citrus tartness. The recipe's origins trace back to French lemon tarts, but the crystal jelly makes it special. This exquisite dessert adorns the festive table, delighting not only with its taste but also its beauty: delicate flowers and berries enhance its sophistication. It pairs perfectly with tea, becoming the final chord of gastronomic pleasure.