Valentine Dessert Recipe from Sharon Ashwood

I love to cook, so it's only natural that my debut novel would be called RAVENOUS! Sadly, my vampire characters won't get the benefit of this dessert, but all the other characters--witches, werewolves and plain old humans--would be sure to enjoy this light, creamy treat. It's especially nice for summer or after a rich meal.

Cold Berry Cream

• 5 large eggs, separated
• 1 cup sugar (or more to taste)
• 2 envelopes gelatin
• 2 cups heavy cream
• pinch of cream of tartar
• 3 cups fresh or frozen berries (I like fresh blackberries best)

Beat egg yolks and sugar. Squish about one-half cup of the berries and add the juice, continuing to beat. Soften the gelatin in about a half cup of warm water and stir until dissolved. Whip the cream and then stir it into the egg yolk mixture. Add the gelatin. Stir in the whole berries. Beat the egg whites with the cream of tartar and fold that into the mixture. Pour the dessert into a serving dish and chill. Add more berries and whipped cream on top, if desired.

Note: fresh berries will make a firmer dessert. Frozen fruit should be drained of excess liquid.