If you have a sweet tooth and enjoy trying out new desserts, then you must add zefir to your list of must-try Russian delicacies. This light, fluffy and melt-in-your-mouth treat is a popular dessert in Russia and neighboring countries. Made with just a few simple ingredients, zefir is a must-have for any dessert lover. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the history of zefir and provide you with an easy and delicious zefir Russian dessert recipe to try at home.
Main Ingredients: Egg Whites, Sugar, Water, Gelatin, Lemon Juice, Food
If you're looking for a unique and delicious way to prepare your Beer Can Chicken, look no further than Zefir a Russian Marshmallows! This sweet and fluffy treat is the perfect accompaniment to your savory chicken dish. The light and airy texture of Zefir pairs perfectly with the crispy skin of the chicken and adds a touch of sweetness to balance out the flavors. Plus, the vibrant colors of the marshmallows make for a beautiful presentation on your dinner table.
2of 20
Russian Buttercream
Main Ingredients: Buttercream, Sweetened Condensed Milk, Unsalted Butter
Take your Beer Can Chicken to the next level with Russian Buttercream! This rich and creamy frosting is made with butter, sugar, and a touch of vanilla for a decadent and indulgent taste. Spread a generous amount on top of your chicken before serving for a burst of flavor that will have your taste buds dancing. The smooth and silky texture of the buttercream will also add a nice contrast to the crispy chicken skin.
For a traditional Russian dessert that will complement your Beer Can Chicken perfectly, try making a Russian Honey Cake. This layered cake is made with honey-infused sponge cake layers and a creamy sour cream frosting. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors will add a unique twist to your chicken dish. Plus, the beautiful layers of the cake make for a stunning presentation.
If you're a fan of apple pie, you'll love this Russian twist on a classic dessert. Russian Apple Cake "Sharlotka" is a simple yet delicious cake made with thinly sliced apples, eggs, sugar, and flour. The result is a moist and flavorful cake that pairs perfectly with your Beer Can Chicken. The sweetness of the apples adds a nice contrast to the savory chicken, making for a well-balanced meal.
5of 20
Mint Chocolate Dessert Soup
Main Ingredients: Whole Milk, Heavy Cream, Dark Chocolate, Unsweetened
For a refreshing and unique dessert option, try making Mint Chocolate Dessert Soup to go with your Beer Can Chicken. This cold soup is made with mint, chocolate, and cream for a cool and creamy treat. The mint adds a fresh and bright flavor, while the chocolate adds a rich and indulgent touch. Serve this alongside your chicken for a light and satisfying end to your meal.
6of 20
White Russian Cheesecake Bars
Main Ingredients: Chocolate Sandwich Cookies, Unsalted Butter, Cream
For the ultimate indulgent dessert, make these White Russian Cheesecake Bars to serve with your Beer Can Chicken. These rich and creamy bars are made with a graham cracker crust, a layer of creamy cheesecake, and a drizzle of White Russian cocktail sauce on top. The combination of sweet, tangy, and boozy flavors will elevate your chicken dish to a whole new level.
7of 20
Strawberry Marshmallow Cake – Zefir Cake
Main Ingredients: Large Eggs, White Granulated Sugar, Vanilla Extract
Another option using Zefir marshmallows is to make a Strawberry Marshmallow Cake, also known as Zefir Cake. This cake is made with layers of sponge cake, whipped cream, and sliced strawberries, with Zefir marshmallows sprinkled on top. The result is a light and fluffy dessert that pairs perfectly with the juicy and flavorful Beer Can Chicken.
For a simple and delicious sweet treat to serve alongside your chicken, try making Russian Tea Cookies. These buttery and crumbly cookies are made with just a few ingredients, including butter, flour, and powdered sugar. They are the perfect bite-sized dessert to enjoy after a hearty meal of Beer Can Chicken.
Similar to Russian Tea Cookies, Russian Tea Cakes are another option for a buttery and crumbly dessert to serve with your chicken. These cookies are made with ground nuts, butter, sugar, and flour, and are rolled in powdered sugar for a snowy finish. The nutty flavor of the cookies adds a nice depth of flavor to the sweet and tangy chicken dish.
A twist on the classic Sharlotka, this Russian version is made with cranberries for a tart and fruity flavor that pairs perfectly with your Beer Can Chicken. The cranberries add a burst of freshness and a pop of color to the moist and fluffy cake. Serve slices of this dessert alongside your chicken for a festive and delicious meal.
11of 20
White Russian Mini Trifle Dessert
Main Ingredients: Sponge Cake, Vodka, Pudding, Whipped Cream, Chocolate
For a fancy and elegant dessert to serve with your Beer Can Chicken, make these White Russian Mini Trifle Desserts. Layers of White Russian-soaked pound cake, creamy mascarpone filling, and chocolate shavings make for a decadent and indulgent treat. The boozy and sweet flavors of the trifle will balance out the savory chicken dish perfectly.
12of 20
Lemon Fluff Dessert
Main Ingredients: Jell O, Boiling Water, Cold Water, Lemon Pie Filling
For a light and refreshing option, make this Lemon Fluff Dessert to go with your Beer Can Chicken. This no-bake dessert is made with lemon curd, whipped cream, and crushed graham crackers for a tangy and creamy treat. The bright and zesty flavors of the lemon will complement the rich and savory chicken dish.
13of 20
Mock Russian Honey Cake Dessert
Main Ingredients: Honey Graham Crackers, Whipped Cream, Honey
If you love the idea of a Russian Honey Cake but don't have the time to make one from scratch, try making this Mock Russian Honey Cake Dessert. This easy and delicious dessert is made with store-bought pound cake, whipped cream, and a honey and lemon glaze for a shortcut version of the classic cake. Serve it alongside your Beer Can Chicken for a no-fuss and tasty meal.
14of 20
Oreo Dessert
Main Ingredients: Oreos, Butter, Cream Cheese, Vanilla Instant Pudding
For a fun and playful dessert option, make this Oreo Dessert to serve with your Beer Can Chicken. Layers of crushed Oreos, cream cheese, and whipped cream create a rich and indulgent treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth. The chocolatey and creamy flavors of the dessert will complement the savory chicken dish perfectly.
15of 20
Traditional Russian blintzes
Main Ingredients: Large Eggs, Liquid, Grapeseed Oil, Sugar, Salt, Flour
If you want to stick with traditional Russian desserts, try making some blintzes to serve with your Beer Can Chicken. These thin and delicate crepes are filled with a sweet and creamy cheese filling and served with a side of fruit compote. The contrast of textures and flavors in this dish will add a unique twist to your chicken dinner.
16of 20
No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Dessert
Main Ingredients: Vanilla Instant Pudding, Milk, Cool Whip, Graham
This No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Dessert is the perfect make-ahead option for a stress-free meal. Layers of graham crackers, vanilla pudding, and chocolate frosting create a delicious and indulgent dessert that will impress your guests. The creamy and chocolatey flavors of the dessert will complement the savory and juicy Beer Can Chicken perfectly.
17of 20
Lemon Blueberry Heaven Dessert
Main Ingredients: Angel Food Cake, Lemon Pudding, Milk, Sour Cream
For a burst of fruity flavors to go with your chicken, make this Lemon Blueberry Heaven Dessert. This no-bake dessert is made with layers of lemon curd, blueberry pie filling, and whipped cream for a refreshing and tasty treat. The tangy and sweet flavors of the dessert will cut through the richness of the chicken for a well-balanced meal.
18of 20
Dream Dessert Bars
Main Ingredients: Butter, Eggs, Brown Sugar, Vanilla, Flour, Soda, Salt
These Dream Dessert Bars are the perfect combination of crunchy, creamy, and sweet. Made with a graham cracker crust, a layer of cream cheese, a layer of pudding, and a layer of Cool Whip, these bars are a dream come true for any sweet tooth. Serve them alongside your Beer Can Chicken for a delicious and indulgent meal.
19of 20
Ponchiki - Russian Donuts
Main Ingredients: Farmer S Cheese, Eggs, Sugar, Vanilla, Salt, Flour
For a fun and delicious dessert that will transport you to the streets of Russia, make some Ponchiki - Russian Donuts. These fluffy and fried donuts are coated in powdered sugar and can be filled with jam or custard for an extra burst of flavor. Serve them warm alongside your Beer Can Chicken for a hearty and satisfying meal.
20of 20
Pumpkin Crunch – The Perfect Thanksgiving Dessert
Main Ingredients: Pumpkin Puree, Evaporated Milk, Granulated Sugar, Large
If you're making Beer Can Chicken for a special occasion, such as Thanksgiving, make this Pumpkin Crunch dessert to go with it. This creamy and crunchy dessert is made with layers of pumpkin, cream cheese, and a pecan crumble topping. The warm and comforting flavors of pumpkin will pair perfectly with the savory and juicy chicken dish.
The History of Zefir
The Origins
Zefir, also known as Russian marshmallows, has its origins in France. It is said that the Russian Empress Elizabeth, who was known for her love of all things French, introduced zefir to her court in the 18th century. The original recipe was made with egg whites, sugar, and fruit puree, which was then shaped into small balls and dusted with powdered sugar. Over time, zefir became a popular dessert in Russia and other Eastern European countries.
The Evolution of Zefir
As zefir gained popularity, it went through various changes and improvements. The recipe was adapted to include new flavors, such as chocolate and coffee, and the shape of the dessert evolved from small balls to larger, more extravagant shapes. Zefir also became a staple in many Russian households and was often served during special occasions and holidays.
The Ingredients
Zefir is made with just a few simple, yet essential ingredients. The key ingredient is corn syrup, which gives zefir its signature light and fluffy texture. Other ingredients include sugar, gelatin, and fruit puree for flavoring. You can use any fruit puree of your choice, such as strawberry, raspberry, or apricot. You'll also need powdered sugar for dusting.
The Recipe
Ingredients:
1 cup of corn syrup
2 ½ cups of sugar
1 cup of water
2 packets of unflavored gelatin
1 cup of fruit puree
Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
In a saucepan, mix together the corn syrup, sugar, and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
Add the gelatin and continue stirring until it is completely dissolved.
Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool for 5 minutes.
Add the fruit puree and mix well.
Pour the mixture into a greased square pan and let it cool to room temperature.
Once cooled, dust the top of the zefir with powdered sugar.
Cut into small squares and serve.
In Conclusion
Now that you have the zefir Russian dessert recipe, it's time to give it a try and experience the delicious flavors of this beloved Russian treat. Whether you serve it at a dinner party or enjoy it as a sweet treat for yourself, zefir is sure to be a hit. So go ahead and indulge in this light and airy dessert that has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite among dessert lovers.