Apricot-Cherry Compote
James Carrier
Yields Makes about 2 1/2 cups; 6 servings
Notes: We like to use Sauternes, a botrytized wine with honey and apricot flavors, in this simple but intense dessert. Muscat and other white dessert wines are also good; don't use fortified wines such as sherry or port. If you can't find crème fraîche, substitute more whipping cream.

How to Make It

Step 1
1

Cut dried apricots into 1/4-inch strips. In a 3- to 4-quart nonreactve pan, combine apricots, cherries, and 1 cup hot water. Let stand until fruit is slightly soft, about 30 minutes.

Step 2
2

Pour in Sauternes and bring to a simmer over medium-low heat. Cook, gently stirring occasionally, until cherries are plump, apricots are very soft, and liquid is cloudy and thick, about 30 minutes. Cover and chill until cold, at least 2 hours,

Step 3
3

or up to 2 days.

Step 4
4

In a bowl, combine whipping cream, crème fraîche, and sugar; beat with an electric mixer at medium-high speed until soft peaks form. Spoon apricot-cherry compote

Step 5
5

into six small bowls. Top each serving with a dollop of whipped cream mixture;

Step 6
6

offer remaining to add to taste.

Ingredients

 8 ounces dried apricots
 4 ounces dried tart cherries
 1 bottle (375 ml.) Sauternes or other dessert wine (see notes)
 1/2 cup whipping cream
 1/3 cup crème fraîche (see notes)
 1 tablespoon sugar

Directions

Step 1
1

Cut dried apricots into 1/4-inch strips. In a 3- to 4-quart nonreactve pan, combine apricots, cherries, and 1 cup hot water. Let stand until fruit is slightly soft, about 30 minutes.

Step 2
2

Pour in Sauternes and bring to a simmer over medium-low heat. Cook, gently stirring occasionally, until cherries are plump, apricots are very soft, and liquid is cloudy and thick, about 30 minutes. Cover and chill until cold, at least 2 hours,

Step 3
3

or up to 2 days.

Step 4
4

In a bowl, combine whipping cream, crème fraîche, and sugar; beat with an electric mixer at medium-high speed until soft peaks form. Spoon apricot-cherry compote

Step 5
5

into six small bowls. Top each serving with a dollop of whipped cream mixture;

Step 6
6

offer remaining to add to taste.

Apricot-Cherry Compote

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