Cooking 101: Low-fat, low-calorie dessert

By Errin Stevenson

April 1, 2008 | Eating a delicious dessert and not feeling guilty is a feeling most people don't enjoy regularly. But, today I am going to teach you ways you can eat sweets and feel good. With spring here and summer around the corner, light, fresh, and healthy desserts are a popular treat.

Eating healthy and smart is a very important factor in your life. It determines how you mentally and physically feel. Fresh fruits and light creams are fun and easy ways to make your desserts a healthy treat. When cooking desserts or any food, always try to make it as low fat as possible. Use low-fat cheeses, creams and milk to make a healthier dish.

Strawberry trifle is my personal favorite and one I love to make. It is quick, easy and always a favorite treat for a party and one to impress. It is a brainteaser because it is healthy but delicious. Just remember to not eat double because you made it healthier -- this does you no good.

Recipe:
2 (8 oz.) fat-free cream cheese, softened
2 c. powdered sugar
1 c. fat-free sour cream
2 t. vanilla
1ž4 t. almond extract
1ž2 pint light heavy cream
1 t. vanilla
1 T. sugar
1 large angel food cake
2 qts. Fresh strawberries (washed and chopped)

*In a large bowl, mix cream cheese and powdered sugar with electric beaters . Add in sour cream and 2 t. vanilla.

*In a small bowl, add heavy cream, 1 t. vanilla, and 1 T. sugar. Beat unti l stiff.

*Fold your cream mix into the cream cheese mix by simple using a spatula.

*Cut up your angel food cake into 1-inch squares. Add them to your cream c heese and cream mix.

*Choosing your serving dish is important for a trifle. I prefer a glass punch bowl or cake dish because then you can see the layers of your trifle.

After choosing a serving dish, add a layer of cut strawberries to the botto m of your dish. Then simply add a layer of your angel food cream on top of the strawberries. Repeat the process of angel food cream and strawberries until your dish is full and layered. You should always start and end with strawberries. Put a lot of strawberries on top for a fresh look and chill for 2 hours before serving. Enjoy!

MS
MS