This is a holiday version of the popular Italian dessert. It can be served in a large glass bowl or in individual dessert bowls or large wine goblets. The cranberry chutney can be made in advance and then the dessert can be put together the morning of the party. The red and white color is beautiful and very dramatic.
Chimayo Chile and Chocolate Mousse
Don’t be intimidated by the fact that this is a mousse recipe. Most can be a little tricky and some recipes can be down right risky. This one is foolproof. The consistency is perfect every time. You can vary the richness of this dessert by your choice of chocolate.
The chocolate pairs beautifully with the chile. It’s a natural marriage of flavors. Purchase some inexpensive wine or dessert holiday glasses for a festive presentation. Or tie red and green ribbons around wine glasses that you already have. Make the dessert in advance, refrigerate and then just garnish with a little whipped cream, light sprinkling of chile powder and fresh mint for a gorgeous presentation.
Habanero and Lime Cheesecake
This is a classic cheesecake recipe, but the subtle flavor of habanero and lime zest really enhances the richness of the dessert. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or stream a little chocolate sauce over each slice. The habanero isn’t overwhelmingly hot in this recipe and offers a combination of sweet and heat flavors.
Red Chile Pumpkin Chiffon Pie
Gwyneth Doland, writer for Fiery Foods Central, shares her recipe for this spicy dessert. This fluffy pie is a lighter alternative to dense, rich pumpkin pie most of us are used to. It’s served chilled, so the red chile kick comes as a pleasant contrast.
Chile de Arbol Christmas Salad
This is my take on the popular Ensalada de Noche Buena (Christmas Eve Salad) that is served in Mexico. The jicama provides a nice crunchy texture to the salad, but if they are unavailable, use a crisp Granny Smith apple. For added color diced beets are sometimes added in the traditional salad. Pomegranates are in season this time of year, and the seeds add color as well as flavor to this holiday dish.