Cranachan is a traditional Scottish dessert. Its classic components of whipped cream, fresh raspberries and toasted oats create a balance of rich creaminess, tart fruit, and nutty crunch. Traditionally, a splash of whisky was folded in, adding warmth and depth to the flavour. Feel free to add this if you wish, but we’ve created an alcohol-free version for everyone to enjoy. Serving Cranachan on Burns Night is both a nod to Scotland’s past and a way to enjoy local, seasonal flavours in a communal, festive setting.
Ingredients
Oats
- 250 g Chefs’ Selections Porridge Oats (A6536)
Cream Base
- 600 ml Cotteswold Dairy Whipping Cream (Z6224)
- 300 g Tim’s Dairy Greek Style Natural Yoghurt (Z6230)
- 60–80 g Chef’s Selections honey (A96170)
- Pinch fine salt (optional but recommended)
Raspberry Component
- 600 g Raspberries (V2105)
- 120 g Chefs’ Selections Raspberry Jam (A21169)
- 1–2 tbsp Cambray lemon juice (A64981)
Finish
- Extra toasted oats
- Fresh raspberries
- Optional drizzle: Honey or Strawberry Syrup
Method
1. Toasted Oats (Can be prepped 2–3 days ahead)
- Spread oats evenly on a tray.
- Toast at 160 °C fan for 12–15 minutes, turning once, until evenly golden.
- Cool completely and store airtight.
2. Raspberry Compote
- Warm raspberries gently with raspberry jam until just broken down.
- Add lemon juice to sharpen acidity.
- Pass half through a sieve for a smooth sauce; keep half chunky.
- Chill.
3. Cream Base
- Whip cream to soft peaks.
- Fold in yoghurt, honey, and salt.
- Hold refrigerated, covered.
Assembly (À la Carte or Plated)
Glass or Bowl Method
1. Base layer: cream (approx. 60 g)
2. Raspberry compote (30–40 g)
3. Toasted oats (1 tbsp)
4. Repeat once
5. Finish with fresh raspberries, oats, and a light honey drizzle
Plated Dessert Option
- Swipe raspberry sauce across plate.
- Quenelle or spoon cream centrally.
- Sprinkle toasted oats for texture.
- Finish with fresh berries and honey drops.
Service Notes
- Assemble no more than 30 minutes before service to maintain crunch.
- Keep oats separate until plating.
- This dessert benefits from temperature contrast: cold cream, room-temp oats.
