Rhubarb, Thyme & Ginger Pistachio Frangipane Cake with Crumble Topping, Rhubarb Compote and Creme Fraiche
One of my favourite summer desserts. Sweet and sharp marinated rhubarb pairs so well with the nutty pistachio frangipane flavoured with orange and amaretto, the aromatic thyme, stem ginger and crunchy moreish almond crumble topping for some texture. It’s lovely slightly warm from the oven but also keeps really well. I like to serve it with a sweet, jammy rhubarb compote on the side made with extra amaretto, a dash of vanilla and chopped stem ginger. Creme fraiche lightens everything up but ice cream, chantilly or straight pouring cream would also be delicious.
Fig, Orange & Cointreau Frangipane Tart
I haven’t posted a dessert recipe in a while so thought I’d share this recipe which is one of my all time favourites. We had it at New Year and I’ve also made it for several private dinner parties. It’s a great one to make ahead and can just be reheated to service. The pastry is made in a food processor which makes it much easier, quicker and it happens to be delicious. I served it with stem ginger custard but creme fraiche would work just as well. The sweet jamminess of the figs, the citrus hit of the orange, the nuttiness of the almond frangipane, the buttery pastry, and slight boozy hit of the cointreau are all a match made in heaven.