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Mary Berry Peach Melba

Mary Berry Peach Melba Recipe

Fresh ripe peaches layer with vanilla ice cream and silky raspberry sauce blended smooth from fresh berries, garnished with mint sprigs. This elegant dessert comes together in under ten minutes, balancing sweet peaches with tart raspberries and creamy vanilla to create sophisticated simplicity perfect for impressing guests without kitchen stress.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Servings: 3
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: French
Calories: 285

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz 350g raspberries
  • ¼ cup confectioner’s sugar
  • 4 ripe peaches
  • 8 scoops of vanilla ice cream
  • Fresh mint sprigs for decoration

Method
 

  1. Begin by preparing the Melba sauce, which serves as the foundation for this elegant dessert. Combine 12 oz (350g) of fresh raspberries with about ¼ cup of confectioner’s sugar in a blender or food processor.
  2. Blend until the mixture reaches a smooth consistency, then pass it through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the seeds if you prefer a smoother sauce. This step creates a silky, refined topping that perfectly complements the other components of the dish.
  3. While the sauce is being prepared, ready the peaches for assembly. Take 4 ripe peaches, peel them carefully (blanching briefly in hot water can make this easier), pit them, and slice them into even pieces.
  4. Arrange the peach slices evenly across 4 glass serving dishes, creating an attractive base layer that allows the fruit’s natural beauty to shine through.
  5. Complete the dessert by topping each dish with 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream placed directly over the peach slices. Drizzle the prepared Melba sauce generously over the ice cream and peaches, allowing it to cascade naturally down the sides.
  6. Finish each serving with a sprinkle of the remaining raspberries and fresh mint sprigs for a polished, restaurant-quality presentation. Serve immediately while the ice cream is still cold and the contrast between the warm and cool elements is most pronounced.

Notes

What to Serve with Mary Berry Peach Melba

While Peach Melba‘s creamy and fruity elements make it a complete dessert on its own, I’ve discovered that thoughtful accompaniments can elevate the experience. A crisp, buttery shortbread cookie provides textural contrast to the soft peaches and smooth ice cream. Alternatively, delicate tuile wafers add an elegant crunch that complements the dish’s sophistication.
For beverages, I’d recommend serving chilled Prosecco or a light Moscato d’Asti. These wines mirror the dessert’s fruity notes without overwhelming the palate. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, sparkling elderflower cordial or cold jasmine tea work beautifully.
A small glass of dessert liqueur like Chambord also pairs wonderfully, enhancing the raspberry Melba sauce’s depth. Keep accompaniments minimal and refined—this dessert deserves to remain the star of your table.