Peach & Cherry Shortcake Dessert Board

The Peach & Cherry Shortcake Dessert Board is not just a dessert; it’s an exquisite experience that marries the sweetness of seasonal fruits with the rich, creamy texture of mascarpone cheese and the comforting familiarity of freshly baked biscuits. The combination of flavors is a delightful symphony, with the juicy peaches and tart cherries providing a perfect contrast that dances on the palate. This colorful, inviting dessert offers a beautiful presentation and is reminiscent of summer picnics and family gatherings, making it ideal for holidays, brunches, or simply as a quick dessert after a weeknight dinner.

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What You’ll Need for Peach & Cherry Shortcake Dessert Board

Complete Ingredients List

To create this delectable Peach & Cherry Shortcake Dessert Board, you will need the following ingredients:

• For the Biscuits:

  • 2 1/2 cups self-rising flour
  • 1 Tbsp. granulated sugar
  • 7 Tbsp. frozen butter, grated
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 tsp. turbinado sugar (for sprinkling)

• For the Fruit Mixture:

  • 1 large yellow peach, chopped
  • 1 cup cherries, pitted and halved
  • 2 Tbsp. fresh lime juice
  • 1 Tbsp. turbinado sugar
  • 1/2 tsp. chopped mint, plus more for serving

• For the Whipped Mascarpone:

  • 4 oz. cold mascarpone cheese
  • 1 Tbsp. granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup cold heavy cream

• For Garnishing:

  • 1/3 cup toasted, slivered almonds

Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives

If you have dietary restrictions or simply want to customize your dessert board, here are some alternatives:

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the self-rising flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure to add a gluten-free baking powder as necessary.

• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free butter alternative for the biscuits and replace the mascarpone and heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream cheese.

• Low-Sugar: You can use Stevia or erythritol as a sugar substitute for both the granulated sugar and turbinado sugar in the fruit mixture.

• Fruit Variations: Feel free to mix it up with other seasonal fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for different flavors and textures.

How to Make Peach & Cherry Shortcake Dessert Board

Creating this delightful dessert board involves several simple steps, allowing you to serve a show-stopping dish that’s packed with flavor and visual appeal.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheating your oven to 425°F is crucial as it ensures the biscuits will rise beautifully. Be sure to line a baking sheet with parchment paper, which not only helps with easy cleanup but also prevents the biscuits from sticking.

Step 2: Make the Biscuit Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the self-rising flour and granulated sugar. Using a box grater, grate the frozen butter into the flour mixture. This technique allows for even distribution of butter, leading to those gloriously flaky biscuits you crave. Gently toss the grated butter into the flour mixture, taking care not to overwork the dough.

Next, make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the buttermilk. Mix gently until just combined. Dump the mixture onto a floured surface and form the dough into a rectangle that’s about 3/4 inch thick. The thickness is ideal for achieving the right texture during baking.

Step 3: Shape the Biscuits

Fold the dough like a letter, then use a rolling pin to roll it out into a rectangle measuring approximately 10 inches by 7 inches. This unique folding technique allows for layers that create a tender biscuit. Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into 8 squares and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with turbinado sugar for a hint of crunch and sweetness.

Step 4: Bake the Biscuits

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the biscuits for 15 to 17 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to avoid overbaking—they should be golden brown. While the biscuits are baking, you can prepare the fruit mixture.

Step 5: Prepare the Fruit

In another bowl, combine the chopped peaches, halved cherries, lime juice, turbinado sugar, and chopped mint. Toss gently until the fruit is evenly coated, allowing the flavors to meld together. Set this aside to let the juices develop.

Step 6: Whip the Mascarpone

In a separate bowl, combine the cold mascarpone cheese and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat until smooth. Gradually stream in the cold heavy cream while continuing to beat the mixture until it thickens and becomes fluffy.

Step 7: Arrange the Dessert Board

Once everything is prepared, it’s time to arrange your beautiful dessert board! Start with the biscuits, placing them on your chosen serving platter. Create small bowls for the whipped mascarpone, fruit mixture, and almonds, arranging them strategically around the biscuits. For an added touch, garnish the fruit with fresh mint for a pop of color and additional flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Peach & Cherry Shortcake Dessert Board

How to Serve Peach & Cherry Shortcake Dessert Board

For the best experience, serve the Peach & Cherry Shortcake Dessert Board at room temperature. This allows the flavors of the fruit and the fluffy mascarpone to shine through. You may also choose to serve the biscuits warm, straight from the oven, which enhances their flaky texture and buttery taste.

For cutting and serving, consider using serrated knives for the biscuits, ensuring each piece retains its shape. Don’t worry about precision—the rustic style of the dessert board means that slight imperfections add to its charm!

Perfect Pairings & Toppings

While the primary components of the dessert board are delicious on their own, consider the following pairings:

• Extra Toppings: Drizzle honey or maple syrup over the whipped mascarpone for added sweetness and richness.

• Crispy Options: Serve with a side of crushed graham crackers for a bit of crunch.

• Beverage Pairings: Pair with iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water to balance the sweetness of the dessert.

Storing & Preserving Peach & Cherry Shortcake Dessert Board

Best Storage Methods

If you have leftovers, store each component separately for the best flavor and texture preservation. The biscuits can be kept at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate in an airtight container.

The fruit mixture can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, while the whipped mascarpone should be consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness. If you need to store the almonds, keep them in a separate container away from moisture.

Reheating or Freezing Tips

To reheat the biscuits, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving them, as this can lead to a rubbery texture. You can freeze the freshly baked biscuits by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Tips for Perfect Peach & Cherry Shortcake Dessert Board Every Time

Avoid These Common Mistakes

When preparing the Peach & Cherry Shortcake Dessert Board, consider the following potential pitfalls:

• Overmixing: Be careful not to overmix the biscuit dough, as this can result in tough biscuits.

• Not Grating the Butter: If you skip the grating step, it may lead to uneven distribution of fat, resulting in dense biscuits.

• Improper Measurements: Use proper measuring techniques for both wet and dry ingredients, as inaccurate measurements can yield poor results.

Helpful Tricks for Success

To ensure your dessert board is a hit, consider these tips:

• Chill Your Ingredients: For the flakiest biscuits, keep your butter and buttermilk cold right up until you’re ready to mix.

• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use ripe, fresh fruits for the best flavor. Check for sweetness and readiness when selecting peaches and cherries.

• Assembly Line: Prepare all components before assembling the board to streamline the process and make it more enjoyable.

Fun Variations of Peach & Cherry Shortcake Dessert Board

Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists

Looking for something a bit different? Here are some fun ideas to switch up your dessert board:

• Berry Blast: Replace peaches and cherries with a combination of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries for a vibrant version.

• Tropical Twist: Add pineapple or mango into the fruit mixture, enhanced with a splash of coconut milk in the whipped mascarpone for a tropical feel.

• Spiced Up: Incorporate some cinnamon or nutmeg into the biscuit dough for a warm, comforting flavor.

Dietary-Friendly Adjustments

Depending on your guests’ dietary needs, you can easily adapt this recipe:

• Vegan Version: Swap out the dairy for coconut yogurt in the whipped component and a plant-based butter for the biscuits.

• Keto-Friendly: Make biscuits with almond flour and erythritol instead of traditional flour and sugar, plus use a sugar-free sweetener for the fruit mixture.

• Sugar-Free Adjustments: You can use natural sweeteners like monk fruit or stevia to keep sugar levels low without sacrificing taste.

FAQs

What If My Peach & Cherry Shortcake Dessert Board Doesn’t Turn Out Right?

If your biscuits are too dry, it’s likely due to overbaking or measuring the flour incorrectly. Aim for a light touch when mixing; the dough should just come together. For too moist biscuits, reduce buttermilk slightly for your next batch. If your whipped mascarpone doesn’t hold its shape, try chilling the bowl and beaters before mixing, which will help it whip up fluffy.

Can I Prepare This in Advance?

Certainly! The biscuit dough can be made and stored in the fridge for a few hours before baking. The fruit mixture can be prepared as much as a day ahead—just toss well before serving. For the whipped mascarpone, it’s best to whip it just before serving to maintain texture, but you can mix the mascarpone and sugar ahead of time and whip in the cream later.

What Ingredients Can I Swap?

If you cannot find fresh cherries, frozen ones work in a pinch—just ensure you thaw and drain beforehand. For those allergic to nuts, omit the almonds, as the dessert board is still luscious without them. You can also experiment with alternative fruits depending on the season and personal preference, keeping in mind the balanced flavors.

This Peach & Cherry Shortcake Dessert Board offers a tantalizing journey of textures and flavors, ready to impress at any gathering. With these tips and variations in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to create a perfect board—one that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat! Happy baking!

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