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There’s something delightful about a dessert that takes me back to family gatherings and sunny afternoons — the Alberta King’s Quilly Recipe is just that. Imagine the soft, creamy texture melting in your mouth, with bursts of fruit and the crunchy surprise of almonds mingling in a symphony of flavors. I first stumbled upon this gelatin dessert while reminiscing about my grandmother’s kitchen, where laughter and sweet aromas filled the air.

This recipe is a breath of fresh air from the mundane desserts that often grace our tables. It’s not only incredibly simple to whip up but also offers endless possibilities to customize with your favorite fruits or nuts. Perfect for impressing guests at a dinner party or providing a sweet escape on a lazy weekend, this dish is sure to become a cherished staple in your home. Let’s dive into how you can create this elegant treat that beautifully bridges nostalgia and culinary creativity!

Why will you love this Alberta King’s Quilly Recipe?

Whimsical nostalgia: This dessert is a sweet trip down memory lane, evoking the warmth of family gatherings and cherished moments.
Effortless preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can create a stunning dessert that looks and tastes gourmet without breaking a sweat.
Flavor flexibility: Customize this recipe with your favorite fruits, nuts, or even extracts, making every batch uniquely yours.
Crowd-pleasing treat: The delightful combination of creamy texture, fruity bites, and crunchy almonds will have guests coming back for seconds.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a casual weekend or a festive dinner party, the Alberta King’s Quilly fits right in and leaves a lasting impression!

Alberta King’s Quilly Ingredients

For the Gelatin Base
• 1 tablespoon gelatin – This is the key to achieving that perfect, wobbly texture.
• 1/4 cup cold water – Helps bloom the gelatin for optimal consistency.
• 1/4 cup boiling water – Ensures the gelatin dissolves completely in the mixture.

For the Sweet Cream Mixture
• 1 cup sugar – Balances the tartness of the fruit and adds sweetness to the creamy base.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla or rum extract – Enhances the flavor profile beautifully; go for rum for a festive twist!
• 2 cups heavy cream – Creates a rich, velvety texture that’s simply irresistible.

For the Crunchy Add-ins
• 1/4 pound almonds, chopped – Adds a delightful crunch; feel free to toast them for added flavor.
• 6 stale coconut macaroons, crumbled – Infuses a chewy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the creamy elements.
• 1 dozen mini marshmallows – A fun, soft addition that kids (and adults) will love.

For the Fruity Element
• 1 (8-ounce) can fruit cocktail, well-drained – Offers bursts of fruity goodness; fresh fruit is a great substitute if you prefer!

For the Garnish
• Sugar wafers, for garnish – Adds a lovely texture and finish to your dish, making it even more tempting.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re on your way to crafting the sensational Alberta King’s Quilly Recipe that will delight taste buds and warm hearts!

How to Make Alberta King’s Quilly

Prepare the mold: Lightly spray an 8- or 10-cup gelatin mold or Bundt pan with nonstick spray to ensure easy release after chilling.
Bloom the gelatin: In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of gelatin with 1/4 cup of cold water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it absorbs the water and softens.
Dissolve the sugar: In another small bowl, mix together 1 cup of sugar with 1/4 cup of boiling water. Stir until the sugar completely dissolves, then allow it to cool.
Whip the cream: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of heavy cream with 1 teaspoon of vanilla or rum extract. Beat it with an electric mixer until medium peaks form — this adds a lovely lightness to your dessert!
Combine mixtures: Once the sugar mixture has cooled, mix it into the bloomed gelatin, stirring gently until fully combined.
Fold in the cream: Carefully add the sugar-gelatin mixture into the whipped cream bowl and gently fold them together. This keeps the texture light and airy.
Add the goodies: Toss in the chopped almonds, crumbled coconut macaroons, mini marshmallows, and drained fruit cocktail. Mix gently to distribute everything evenly without deflating the cream.
Chill the dessert: Pour the lovely mixture into the prepared mold or Bundt pan. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best set.
Unmold with care: When you’re ready to serve, prepare a large bowl filled with hot (but not boiling) water. Hold the bottom of the pan in the warm water for 5-10 seconds to loosen the gelatin.
Serve and garnish: Place a plate over the top of the pan and carefully flip. For a delightful finish, decorate with sugar wafers, either whole or crushed, to elevate your dessert presentation.

Optional: Add fresh fruit on top for an extra burst of color and flavor!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Alberta King’s Quilly Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this dessert with your personal touch.

Fruity Swaps: Substitute the canned fruit cocktail with your favorite fresh fruits like strawberries, peaches, or blueberries for a vibrant twist. The freshness will lighten the dessert, adding delightful notes.
Nut-Free Option: Replace chopped almonds with sunflower seeds or skip nuts altogether for a safe treat for those with nut allergies. This creates a different texture while maintaining creaminess.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream or almond milk instead of heavy cream for a delicious dairy-free alternative. Combine with dairy-free whipped topping for that airy texture.
Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Add cocoa powder to the whipped cream mixture for a chocolaty version, or swirl in some chocolate syrup before folding in the other ingredients. It’s a decadent treat for chocolate enthusiasts.
Spiced Flavor: Sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg into the whipped cream for a warm, spicy kick. This comforting addition will take your dessert to cozy new heights.
Layered Presentation: Instead of pouring everything into a mold, layer the mixture in individual cups with alternate layers of whipped cream and fruit. This stunning presentation makes it perfect for gatherings.
Lemon Zest Boost: Incorporate lemon zest into the whipped cream mixture for a refreshing citrus kick. This vibrant flavor will brighten each bite and add a delightful tartness.
Subtle Heat: For those who enjoy a little spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños to the fruit mixture. It creates a surprising and exciting flavor contrast that will intrigue adventurous eaters!

Tips for the Best Alberta King’s Quilly Recipe

Gelatin Blooming: Always let the gelatin sit in cold water before mixing; this prevents graininess and achieves a smooth texture.
Cool Completely: Ensure your sugar mixture is fully cooled before combining with gelatin to avoid premature melting of the whipped cream.
Gently Fold: When incorporating the cream, fold gently to maintain that light, airy consistency that’s characteristic of the Alberta King’s Quilly Recipe.
Chill Time: Be patient with your refrigerating time; longer chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures a perfect set.
Serve with Style: Use hot water when unmolding; it helps release the dessert without damaging its shape, making for a stunning presentation!

How to Store and Freeze Alberta King’s Quilly Recipe

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the dessert is covered to prevent it from absorbing any odors.

Freezer: This gelatin dessert can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer.

Thawing: To enjoy, thaw the Alberta King’s Quilly in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Avoid refreezing after thawing to maintain texture.

Reheating: Since this dessert is served chilled, there’s no reheating needed. Simply slice and serve straight from the fridge or after thawing!

What to Serve with Alberta King’s Quilly Recipe?

Creating the perfect experience around this delightful dessert elevates any occasion and invites sweet indulgence into your gathering.

Fresh Berries: Their natural acidity balances the creamy sweetness, adding a refreshing contrast that brightens the palate.
Honey Drizzled Yogurt: A luscious dollop of yogurt offers a delightful creaminess while the honey’s sweetness enhances the fruitiness of your dessert.
Chocolate Mousse: Rich and decadent, this pairing brings an element of sophistication that harmonizes with the lighter textures of the quilly.
Lemonade Spritzers: A bubbly drink with citrus notes cuts through the richness, refreshing your senses and making every bite even better.
Savory Cheese Platter: A mix of sharp and creamy cheeses alongside nuts provides a delightful contrast to the sweet quilly, creating a balanced appetizer platter.
Coconut Sorbet: For a tropical twist, the refreshing coconut flavor complements the dessert’s elements while offering a light contrast in temperature and texture.
Magic Cookie Bars: These delightful treats evoke nostalgia and cookie goodness, making for a casual dessert experience that pairs beautifully with the quilly.
Mint Tea: A warm cup of mint tea refreshes and cleanses the palate after enjoying this rich dessert, rounding out your meal perfectly.
Toasted Almonds: Serve these as a crunchy topping for extra texture; their warm, nutty aroma enhances the flavor experience of the Alberta King’s Quilly.

Make Ahead Options

These Alberta King’s Quilly Recipe desserts are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the gelatin base and the whipped cream mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bloom the gelatin and mix it as indicated in the recipe, then store it in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can chop the almonds and crumble the coconut macaroons ahead of time, keeping them in airtight containers to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to serve, just fold in the prepped components and let the mixture chill in the mold overnight for optimal texture. This way, you’ll have a delightful dessert that’s just as delicious, saving you precious time during busy weeknights!

Alberta King’s Quilly Recipe FAQs

What kind of gelatin should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Use unflavored powdered gelatin for the best results. This type dissolves well and helps achieve that airy texture that the Alberta King’s Quilly is known for. Avoid using flavored gelatin, as it can alter the taste of your dessert.

How should I store leftovers of the Alberta King’s Quilly?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to ensure the dessert is covered properly to avoid absorbing any unwanted odors from the fridge.

Can I freeze the Alberta King’s Quilly?
Yes, this delightful dessert can be frozen for up to 2 months! To do so, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This prevents freezer burn and preserves flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

What should I do if my dessert doesn’t set properly?
If your Alberta King’s Quilly doesn’t set, it might be due to not allowing the gelatin to bloom or not mixing the sugar mixture long enough with the gelatin. To troubleshoot, you can gently reheat the mixture (in a double boiler) until it liquefies, then re-check the gelatin’s effectiveness by mixing in some more if needed. Once resolved, pour it back into the mold and refrigerate longer.

Is this dessert suitable for people with allergies?
Since the Alberta King’s Quilly contains heavy cream, sugar, and nuts, it’s important to check for any allergies related to these ingredients. If someone in your household has nut allergies, feel free to replace the almonds with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch without the allergens.

How can I make a vegan version of Alberta King’s Quilly?
For a vegan twist, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use agar-agar instead of gelatin. Agar-agar is derived from seaweed and works well to create a similar texture. Mix 1 tablespoon of agar-agar with 1/4 cup of water and boil for about 3-5 minutes before following the rest of the recipe as usual!