Mini Chocolate Pudding Cup with Macerated Cherries

 THE CALL IS OUT

I needed to pay my neighbor a visit at Ladyslipper Cove to meet The Ladies. The word was out-they are in full bloom.

Did you know that Minnesota in addition to being well known for over 10,000 lakes also has a hidden treasure Lady Slippers flowers? The showy pink and white lady slippers (Cypreginae) also known as the moccasin flower was adopted as the state flower in 1902. Since 1925 this rare wildflower has been protected by state law. It is illegal to pick the flowers or uproot them. In Minnesota, they can be found near bogs, swamps, and damp areas. These flowers like acid soil that is found in and near pine woods; They grow slowly and take up to 16 years to produce their first flowers. They generally bloom in late May and well into June. Since spring has had a slow start the ladies have arrived late.
In our area, the Yellow Lady Slippers make their appearance first before the Pink Lady Slippers. 

My recent photos 

It was just that kind of day to enjoy a grilled meal with roasted vegetables and a delicious dessert, Mini Chocolate Pudding Cup with Macerated Cherries. 

Cook's Notes: A no-bake dessert perfect for warm weather days. Fresh cherries are in the stores-buy a bag. Pitting cherries is easy and this tool makes the job even easier. FYI I did some research and found out of the top 10 puddings to buy Jello came in at #2.    

The recipe serves 4 served in mini glasses.

Ingredients:

• 1 box instant chocolate pudding 
• 1 teaspoon vanilla 
• 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder 
• Crumbled Oreo cookie crumbs
• 1 cup pitted fresh cherries
•  2 tablespoons Kirsch (cherry brandy) or Amaretto   

Directions:

• Macerate cherries in a small bowl with liqueur for 10 minutes. Drain and add to dessert on top. 
• Prepare the pudding according to the box ingredients adding in the vanilla and espresso powder. 
• In a small glass layer the following; pudding, cookie crumbs, and top with cherries. 
• Refrigerate and right before serving top with whipped cream.