Raspberry Rhubarb Fool

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Raspberry Rhubarb Fool is a beautifully simple, light, and refreshing dessert that combines the tartness of rhubarb and the sweetness of raspberries folded into soft, whipped cream. This traditional English dessert is quick to prepare, visually stunning, and bursting with bright, fresh flavors. Perfect for spring and summer, it’s an elegant yet effortless treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the fruit compote:

• Fresh rhubarb (chopped)
• Fresh raspberries
• Granulated sugar
• Lemon juice
• Vanilla extract

For the cream:

• Heavy whipping cream
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract

Optional garnish:

• Fresh raspberries
• Mint leaves

Directions

1. Prepare the fruit compote: In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped rhubarb, raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the rhubarb softens and the mixture becomes jammy, about 8-10 minutes.
2. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let the mixture cool completely. You can refrigerate it to speed up the cooling process.
3. Whip the cream: In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
4. Assemble the fool: Gently fold the cooled fruit compote into the whipped cream, creating a marbled effect. Be careful not to overmix—you want streaks of fruit running through the cream.
5. Spoon the mixture into serving glasses or bowls.
6. Garnish: Top with a few fresh raspberries and mint leaves if desired. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 4 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking and cooling time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add a splash of orange liqueur like Grand Marnier to the fruit compote for an adult version.
• Swap the raspberries with strawberries or blackberries for a different fruit combination.
• Layer the fool with crushed cookies or granola for added texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover Raspberry Rhubarb Fool covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
This dessert is best enjoyed fresh as the whipped cream can lose its texture over time.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the fruit compote and whipped cream separately a few hours ahead. Assemble just before serving for the best texture.

Can I use frozen raspberries and rhubarb?
Yes, frozen fruit works well. Just thaw and drain any excess liquid before using to avoid a watery compote.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the whipped cream with coconut whipped cream for a dairy-free version.

Is this dessert very sweet?
It has a balanced sweetness. You can adjust the sugar in the fruit compote depending on how tart your rhubarb and raspberries are.

Can I blend the fruit completely into the cream?
You can, but traditionally, a fool has visible swirls of fruit. Blending it fully will change the texture and look.

Conclusion

Raspberry Rhubarb Fool is a light, fruity, and luxurious dessert that’s perfect for showcasing fresh seasonal produce. With its silky whipped cream and tangy fruit compote, it offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Quick to make yet stunning to serve, this fool is an effortless way to impress your guests or treat yourself to something special!

Print