Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching, and it is often difficult to think of new and creative ideas to celebrate the special day. Valentine’s Day is very often associated with chocolates and desserts, so here’s a special recipe for Amaretto cream, and the best part is it’s rich in flavor but not in calories. It’s only 284 calories!

Ingredients

• 1 envelope unflavored gelatin
• ¼ cup cold water
• 3 eggs
• ⅓ cup sugar
• ¼ cup Amaretto liqueur
• 1 cup whipping cream
• ¼ cup sliced almonds
• Sliced strawberries, optional, for garnish
• Mint leaves, for garnish

Directions

First, you’ll need to toast the almonds. To do this, just lay them out on a 9-inch square baking sheet and bake them at 350° for 10 minutes or until they are lightly browned. Don’t forget to shake the pan occasionally.

In a 1-to 2-quart pan, sprinkle gelatin over water; let stand for 5 minutes to soften.

Heat over medium heat for 30 seconds, or until the mixture begins to simmer. Remove from heat.

In a small mixer bowl, beat eggs on high speed for 2 minutes, or until slightly thick. Slowly beat in sugar, liqueur, and gelatin.

In a large mixer bowl, beat cream until it mounds softly. Add egg mixture and fold in to blend.

Pour into a 1-quart mold or into individual serving dishes. Refrigerate for 3 hours or until the mold is set.

Unmold onto a serving plate or serve from individual dishes. Garnish with fresh sliced strawberries and mint, if available. Sprinkle servings with toasted almonds.

One thing to note is that you don’t have to use liqueur. If you don’t use it, just increase your water to ½ cup and add ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg to the gelatin before simmering.

The rich flavor of Amaretto cream makes it the perfect dessert for special occasions, so enjoy it with your special someone and have a wonderful Valentine’s Day!