Coffee Dessert with Maria Cookies

Introduction

This coffee dessert with Maria cookies is a delicious and easy-to-prepare option for coffee and cold dessert lovers. Its smooth and creamy texture, combined with the crunch of the cookies, makes it an ideal choice for any occasion. It also doesn’t require an oven, making it easy to prepare at home. This dessert stands out for its balance between the sweetness of the cream and the intense flavor of the coffee, making it perfect for a snack or a special celebration.

This coffee dessert with Maria cookies is a delicious and simple option that combines the smoothness of a sweet cream with the unmistakable flavor of coffee and the crunchy texture of cookies. It’s a cold dessert, easy to prepare, and requires no oven, making it a perfect choice for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a special celebration, or simply a post-meal indulgence.

Coffee, the star ingredient in this recipe, is one of the most popular beverages in the world. Its versatility has made it a key ingredient in baking, from mousses and cakes to cookies and ice cream. Its intense flavor and aroma add a sophisticated touch to desserts and pair perfectly with sweet ingredients like cream and sugar.

Maria cookies , on the other hand, are a classic in many families’ kitchens. Their neutral and slightly sweet flavor makes them ideal for absorbing liquids and combining with different types of creams and fillings. In this recipe, they act as a base and intermediate layers that provide structure and balance to the dessert.

This dessert is not only easy to make, but also allows for variations according to each person’s taste. You can adjust the intensity of the coffee, add chocolate, nuts, or even liqueur for a more sophisticated touch. Plus, since it’s a cold dessert, it’s ideal for hot days or when you want a refreshing, creamy option without the hassle.

In this exposé, we’ll explore the history and origin of the ingredients, their detailed preparation process, some interesting facts and tips for improving the recipe, as well as thought-provoking questions about their importance in gastronomy and their impact on home baking. Join us to discover more about this exquisite dessert!

History of Dessert

The use of coffee in baking has a long tradition across various cultures. From Italian tiramisu to coffee-flavored cakes and mousses, this beverage has been incorporated into a wide variety of desserts due to its distinctive flavor and aroma.

Maria biscuits, on the other hand, are a classic product that has been a staple in the kitchen since their creation in the 19th century. They were invented in England in 1874 by the Peek Freans company in honor of Grand Duchess Maria Alexandrovna of Russia. Since then, they have been popular in many countries, especially Spain and Latin America.

This dessert combines the tradition of coffee with the versatility of Maria cookies, resulting in a simple yet exquisite recipe that has been adapted in many cuisines around the world.

The coffee dessert with Maria cookies has its roots in the tradition of home baking, where the combination of simple and accessible ingredients has given rise to numerous popular recipes around the world. This dessert is a variation on classic cold desserts based on cookies and cream, such as the famous charlotte , tiramisu , or biscuit and custard tart , which have been part of family cooking for generations.

Origins of Coffee in Pastry

Coffee is native to Africa, specifically Ethiopia, and has been consumed for centuries for its stimulating effect and characteristic bitter taste. With the expansion of trade, coffee reached Europe and America, where it became one of the most popular beverages. Its incorporation into baking came with the rise of French and Italian cuisine, which began using it in creams, mousses, and cakes, giving rise to iconic desserts such as tiramisu.

Over time, coffee recipes diversified and began to appear in home cooking, giving way to simpler and more accessible desserts. This is how combinations with cookies and creams emerged, in which coffee adds a sophisticated touch without the need for advanced culinary techniques.

History of Maria Cookies

Maria biscuits have a British origin and were created in 1874 by the Peek Freans company in London. These biscuits were designed in honor of Grand Duchess Maria Alexandrovna of Russia , who married the Duke of Edinburgh that year. Their popularity grew rapidly and spread throughout Europe and Latin America, becoming a staple in many kitchens.

Their versatility has made them a key ingredient in homemade baking, used as a base for cold desserts, tarts, and custards. Their crunchy, yet easy-to-soak texture makes them the ideal complement to creams and mousses, as in the case of the coffee dessert with Maria cookies.

Evolution and Popularity of the Dessert

This dessert has become popular in different countries, with variations in ingredients and preparation methods. In Latin America, for example, it’s common to find versions made with condensed milk or dulce de leche to give it a sweeter, creamier touch. In Spain, it’s usually prepared with cocoa or cinnamon, while in some European countries, nuts or liqueurs are added for a more refined flavor.

Thanks to its ease of preparation and the perfect combination of coffee and cookies, this dessert remains a classic in many homes. Its simplicity allows anyone, regardless of their cooking experience, to enjoy a delicious homemade dessert. Furthermore, its ability to adapt to different tastes and preferences keeps it relevant in modern baking.

In conclusion, the coffee dessert with Maria cookies is the result of combining two ingredients with a rich history and tradition in world gastronomy. Its simplicity, flavor, and versatility have made it a beloved dessert for many generations and an ideal option to share on any occasion.

Ingredients and Preparation

Ingredients:

  • 500 ml of whole milk
  • 200 g of sugar
  • 200 ml of cream
  • 60 g cornstarch
  • 5 g of instant coffee
  • A large package of Maria cookies

Preparation:

  1. Blend the ingredients: In a blender, mix the whole milk, sugar, cream, cornstarch, and instant coffee until smooth.
  2. Cooking: Pour the mixture into a pot over low heat and stir constantly until thickened (approximately 5 to 10 minutes).
  3. Assemble the dessert: In a bowl, alternate layers of the warm mixture with layers of Maria cookies. Repeat until all the ingredients are used up.
  4. Refrigerate: Let it rest for a few minutes and then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
  5. Garnish: Before serving, garnish with whipped cream mixed with coffee and chocolate chips to enhance the flavor and presentation.

Reflection Questions

  1. What is the origin of Maria cookies and why are they so popular in baking?
  2. How does coffee influence the texture and flavor of desserts?
  3. What other variations can be made to this recipe to give it a personal touch?
  4. What are the benefits of making homemade desserts instead of buying them in stores?
  5. How does refrigeration affect the consistency of the dessert?

Questions about the Coffee Dessert with Maria Cookies

  1. What is the origin of coffee in baking, and how has its use evolved in desserts?
  2. Who created Maria cookies and what is their history?
  3. Why are Maria cookies ideal for cold desserts?
  4. What variations of this dessert exist in different countries?
  5. What ingredients can be added to customize the dessert?
  6. How long should the dessert be refrigerated to achieve the best texture?
  7. Can instant coffee be substituted with espresso or decaf?
  8. How can you decorate the dessert to make it more attractive?
  9. What are the benefits of moderate consumption of desserts with coffee?
  10. What is the best type of cream to achieve a smooth texture in this dessert?

Other Information about the Coffee Dessert with Maria Cookies

Tips for a Better Result

  • Use warm milk : If you want the cookies to absorb the cream better and soften quickly, soak them in warm milk before adding them.
  • Alternative sweetener : You can substitute sugar with honey, stevia, or natural sweeteners for a healthier version.
  • Creamier texture : If you want a lighter texture, you can add mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt to the mix.
  • Extra touch of flavor : You can add coffee liqueur, rum or vanilla essence to give the dessert a special touch.
  • Creative decoration : Use cocoa powder, chocolate chips, nuts, or even whipped cream with a touch of cinnamon for a professional finish.

Dessert Variations

  1. With chocolate : Add cocoa powder or chocolate chips to the cream for a more intense flavor.
  2. Lactose-free version : Use lactose-free milk and cream or almond milk.
  3. Healthier : Reduce the amount of sugar and use whole-grain crackers.
  4. With nuts : Add crushed almonds, walnuts or hazelnuts for a crunchy touch.
  5. Tiramisu style : Add mascarpone cheese and a sprinkle of cocoa to the final layer for a more gourmet effect.

Other Information of Interest

  • Instant coffee can be substituted with espresso for a more intense flavor.
  • For a lighter version, you can use skim milk and reduce the amount of sugar.
  • You can add nuts or cocoa powder to give it a different touch.
  • This dessert is ideal to prepare in advance and surprise guests with a fresh and delicious option.

Estimated preparation time

  • Total time : 20 minutes (+ cooling)
  • Active preparation : 15 minutes
  • Cooling : minimum 2 hours

Texture and flavor

This dessert offers a creamy, smooth texture , with slightly crunchy layers that soften over time, similar to a light tiramisu. The flavor is delicately sweet with a deep touch of coffee , balanced by the softness of the cookie.

Consumer context

Ideal as a dessert after family meals or special dinners . It’s also perfect for elegant snacks or celebrations like birthdays or coffee breaks. It doesn’t require an oven, so it’s great for warmer climates or for preparing with children.

Visual appearance

  • Homemade but elegant in appearance , thanks to its visible layers of biscuit and cream.
  • It can be served in individual glasses or in large cold cake-type trays.
  • Decorations with cocoa, chocolate or even nuts can enhance your presentation.

Curiosities

  • Maria cookies are an iconic pastry in many Spanish-speaking countries due to their firm texture and neutral flavor.
  • This dessert is a lighter version of tiramisu , without raw eggs or mascarpone.
  • Some variants include coffee liqueur or vanilla essence to personalize it.

Estimated nutritional value (per serving)

(approximately, based on 8 servings)

  • Calories : 280 kcal
  • Protein : 4 g
  • Fats : 10 g
  • Carbohydrates : 42 g
  • Sugars : 28 g
  • Fiber : 0.5 g

Additional benefits and interesting facts

  • Easy and oven-free : An ideal recipe for those who don’t have an oven or prefer cold preparations.
  • Versatile and economical : Can be adapted using plant-based milk, decaffeinated coffee, or gluten-free cookies.
  • Ideal for coffee lovers : The coffee flavor stands out without being bitter, making it suitable even for those who don’t drink coffee alone.
  • Perfect to prepare with children : It is a fun and safe dessert to make as a family.

Conclusion

This coffee dessert with Maria cookies is an excellent option for those looking for an easy, quick, and delicious no-bake dessert. Its combination of textures and flavors makes it a versatile option that can be adapted to different preferences and occasions.

Thanks to the simplicity of its ingredients and its accessible preparation method, it’s an ideal recipe for both cooking beginners and baking experts. Plus, the coffee, with its distinctive aroma and flavor, gives it a sophisticated touch that makes it irresistible.

Without a doubt, this dessert is a testament to how simple ingredients can be transformed into a pleasurable culinary experience. Give it a try and enjoy its incredible flavor!

This coffee dessert with Maria cookies is a simple, delicious, and versatile recipe that has won over palates around the world. Its preparation doesn’t require advanced baking skills, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and experts. Furthermore, its combination of flavors and textures—the smoothness of the cream, the crunchiness of the cookies, and the unmistakable aroma of coffee—make it an irresistible choice for dessert lovers.

One of the greatest attractions of this dessert is its ability to adapt to different tastes and needs. Variations can be made using healthier ingredients, such as natural sweeteners or lactose-free products, or the recipe can be enriched with additions such as chocolate, nuts, or liqueurs. It’s also a perfect recipe to personalize for celebrations and special events, as its presentation can be decorated in a variety of ways to make it even more attractive.

From a cultural perspective, this dessert reflects the importance of coffee in gastronomy, especially in countries where this beverage is an essential part of everyday life. By combining it with traditional Maria cookies , a fusion of tradition and modernity is achieved, creating a dessert that evokes nostalgia and pleasure at the same time.

In conclusion, the coffee dessert with Maria cookies is an option that combines simplicity and sophistication , providing a unique sensorial experience with every bite. It’s easy to prepare, requires few ingredients, and its balanced flavor makes it a delight for any occasion. If you haven’t tried it yet, now’s the perfect time to enjoy it and share it with your loved ones!