Description
Cranachan has deep roots in Scottish history. This dessert has been enjoyed for centuries, and it is said to have originated in the Highlands, where oats were a staple food. The name “Cranachan” is thought to derive from the Gaelic word “creagán,” meaning a small, rocky hill, which reflects the mountainous regions where oats and raspberries grow abundantly.
Ingredients
- Oats – 75g (about ¾ cup), preferably rolled or medium oatmeal
- Raspberries – 250g (about 2 cups), fresh or frozen
- Double cream – 350ml (1½ cups), chilled
- Heather honey – 2 tbsp (or any floral honey)
- Scotch whisky – 2 tbsp (plus 1 tbsp for raspberries
Instructions
- Toast the oats
- Dry-fry oats in a pan over medium heat until golden and nutty. Stir constantly to avoid burning. Set aside to cool.
- Prepare the raspberries
- Reserve a few whole berries for garnish. Lightly crush the rest with a fork.
- Mix in 1 tbsp whisky and 1 tbsp honey. Let sit for 10 minutes to macerate.
- Whip the cream
- Beat the cream until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold in 1 tbsp honey and 2 tbsp whisky. Taste and adjust sweetness or whisky to preference.
- Assemble the dessert
- In serving glasses, layer crushed raspberries, whipped cream, and toasted oats.
- Repeat layers and finish with a sprinkle of oats and a few whole raspberries.
- Chill and serve
- Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes before serving. Best enjoyed fresh!
Notes
Cranachan is often enjoyed as a festive Scottish dessert, traditionally served during Burns Night or Hogmanay celebrations. You can make it extra special by layering it in clear glasses for a beautiful presentation, or by experimenting with different seasonal berries for variety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (to toast oats)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: Scottish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass (about 150–180 g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 25 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: Moderate
Keywords: Traditional Cranachan, Scottish Cranachan, Cranachan Dessert, Classic Cranachan