Desperate desserts are hard to come by. Bakers know that cutting time out of the baking process or prepping process is a recipe for disaster. But even desperate cooks need dessert. Sure we can buy berries nearly all year, but nothing is more satisfying than berries fresh from the vine or bush. They cost a fraction of their January prices, too!

This desperate dessert is a simple, creamy tart, and its purpose is to highlight the taste of whatever fresh berry you have available. Try all strawberries, topped with a sprig of mint. I love a combination of blackberries, blueberries and raspberries, but any one of them can serve as the single attraction.
The secret to success is to coarsely chop the fruit about 30 minutes before serving and sprinkle just a taste of sugar on top. Stir well, and let the berries stand at room temperature. Instantly the berries and sugar make a dessert sauce that’s worthy of the finest bakeries.
Have you ever seen desserts that smother berries in jam or fruit preserves to form a sauce or brighten them as toppers? It’s not necessary at all, and the jam usually hides the distinctive berry flavor.
So, desperate for a berry dessert of your dreams? Just fruit. Just a sprinkle of sugar. Just a creamy, mild tart to serve it on. Mmmmm, good. And mmmmm, simple!