When we think of olive oil and balsamic vinegar, we often think of savory dishes like salads, pasta, and grilled meats. However, these versatile ingredients can also be used to elevate the sweetness of desserts. Infused olive oils and balsamic vinegars come in a variety of flavors and can add depth and complexity to your favorite desserts. Here are some ways to incorporate them into your sweet treats:
Drizzle over ice cream: Instead of using traditional hot fudge or caramel sauce, try drizzling some infused olive oil or balsamic vinegar over your favorite ice cream flavors. A fruity olive oil or a dark chocolate balsamic can add a new dimension of flavor to your dessert.
Mix into cake batter: Replace a portion of the vegetable oil or butter in your cake recipe with a flavored olive oil, such as lemon or blood orange. The oil will add moisture and flavor to the cake, making it a unique and delicious treat.
Brush onto fruit: Brushing fruit with infused olive oil before grilling or roasting can add a subtle sweetness and enhance the natural flavors. Try a cinnamon pear balsamic on sliced apples or a basil-infused olive oil on sliced peaches.
Drizzle over pastries: Instead of using a traditional glaze or frosting, try drizzling some infused balsamic vinegar over your pastries. A vanilla bean balsamic can be a delicious addition to cinnamon rolls or a strawberry balsamic can be drizzled over a cream cheese danish.
Mix into whipped cream: Adding a few drops of infused olive oil or balsamic vinegar to whipped cream can create a unique and delicious topping for desserts. Try a lavender-infused olive oil with fresh berries or a dark chocolate balsamic with chocolate cake.
Infuse into custard: Add a unique flavor to your custards and puddings by infusing the milk or cream with a flavored olive oil or balsamic vinegar. A blood orange olive oil can be a delicious addition to vanilla custard or a fig balsamic can be infused into chocolate pudding.
Drizzle over cheese: Infused olive oils and balsamic vinegars can also be used to enhance the flavor of cheese. Drizzle a fig balsamic over goat cheese or a rosemary-infused olive oil over brie for a savory-sweet combination.
When using infused olive oils and balsamic vinegars in desserts, it's important to remember that a little goes a long way. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste. Experiment with different flavors and combinations to find your favorite sweet and savory pairings.
In conclusion, infused olive oils and balsamic vinegars are not just for savory dishes. They can add a unique and delicious twist to your favorite desserts. From drizzling over ice cream to mixing into cake batter, there are endless possibilities for using these versatile ingredients in sweet treats.
