Cranachan is a traditional Scottish dessert that elegantly combines whipped cream, whisky, raspberries, honey, and toasted oats into a sweet and creamy layered treat. This no-bake dessert is rich yet refreshing, with the tartness of raspberries balanced by the warmth of whisky and the earthiness of oats. It’s particularly popular for Burns Night and summer gatherings but is welcome any time of year.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cranachan is both rustic and refined. It’s quick to prepare, visually beautiful when layered in glasses, and customizable to taste. The use of whisky and heather honey brings authentic Scottish flavor, while the raspberries and cream offer lightness and freshness. Whether you’re celebrating heritage or simply looking for an easy, elegant dessert, this recipe offers tradition and taste in every spoonful.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 300ml heavy (double) cream
- 3 tbsp Scottish whisky (or to taste)
- 2 tbsp honey (preferably heather honey)
- 50g rolled oats
- 250g fresh raspberries (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, for raspberries)
directions
- Toast the Oats:
Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and toast the oats for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently until golden and aromatic. Set aside to cool. - Prepare the Raspberries:
Lightly mash half of the raspberries with a fork. If they are too tart, stir in 1 tsp of sugar. Leave the remaining raspberries whole for layering. - Whip the Cream:
In a large bowl, whip the cream until it begins to thicken. Add the honey and whisky, then continue whipping until soft peaks form. Do not overwhip. - Fold in Oats:
Gently fold most of the toasted oats into the whipped cream, reserving a small portion for garnish. - Assemble the Cranachan:
In serving glasses, layer the ingredients: begin with mashed raspberries, followed by the cream mixture, and then whole raspberries. Repeat the layers as needed. - Garnish and Chill:
Top with a few whole raspberries, the reserved oats, and a light drizzle of honey if desired.
Chill for 15–30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories: Approximately 330 kcal per serving
Variations
- Non-Alcoholic Version: Substitute whisky with orange juice or leave it out entirely for a family-friendly version.
- Boozier Twist: Soak the oats in whisky for 15 minutes before folding into the cream for an extra kick.
- Fruit Swap: Try with blackberries, strawberries, or a mix of berries for seasonal variety.
- Oat Crunch: Use pinhead (steel-cut) oats for a chewier texture.
- Yogurt Option: Replace part of the whipped cream with thick Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter variation.
storage/reheating
Cranachan is best assembled and served fresh but can be prepared a few hours in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 6 hours before serving. Do not freeze or store overnight, as the oats may soften too much and the cream may weep.
FAQs
What is Cranachan?
Cranachan is a traditional Scottish dessert made with cream, whisky, oats, honey, and raspberries. It’s often served on Burns Night or during the summer.
Can I make Cranachan without whisky?
Yes, simply omit the whisky or replace it with a splash of orange juice or vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic version.
What kind of whisky should I use?
A smooth Scottish whisky such as a Speyside or Highland variety works best. Choose one that’s not too peaty for a balanced flavor.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
You can prepare the components in advance, but for best texture, assemble the layers no more than 6 hours before serving.
Is Cranachan served cold or room temperature?
It is traditionally served chilled.
Can I substitute oats with granola?
Toasted oats are traditional, but lightly sweetened granola can be used for a crunchy variation—just reduce the added honey.
Is Cranachan gluten-free?
Oats are naturally gluten-free, but ensure you use certified gluten-free oats to avoid cross-contamination.
Can I use frozen raspberries?
Yes, but thaw and drain them first. Fresh raspberries provide better texture and presentation.
How do I make this dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free whipped topping or coconut cream, and ensure any substitutions for honey (like agave) suit your dietary needs.
What other toppings can I add?
Try chopped toasted nuts, a sprig of mint, or a dash of cinnamon for extra flair.
Conclusion
Scottish Cranachan is a dessert steeped in tradition yet effortlessly modern in its simplicity and elegance. With its layers of cream, whisky, toasted oats, and raspberries, it’s a perfect representation of rustic Scottish hospitality. Whether you’re celebrating Burns Night or enjoying summer berries, this no-bake dessert delivers charm, flavor, and a true taste of the Highlands.
PrintScottish Cranachan
Cranachan is a classic Scottish dessert layered with whisky-laced whipped cream, toasted oats, raspberries, and honey—an elegant yet rustic treat traditionally served on Burns Night or summer occasions.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Scottish
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 300ml heavy (double) cream
- 3 tbsp Scottish whisky (or to taste)
- 2 tbsp honey (preferably heather honey)
- 50g rolled oats
- 250g fresh raspberries (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, for raspberries)
Instructions
- Toast oats in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until golden and aromatic. Let cool.
- Lightly crush half of the raspberries and mix with sugar if desired. Leave the rest whole.
- Whip cream in a bowl until slightly thickened. Add honey and whisky, then whip to soft peaks.
- Fold in most of the toasted oats, reserving a small amount for garnish.
- In serving glasses, layer crushed raspberries, cream mixture, and whole raspberries. Repeat layers as desired.
- Top with reserved oats, a few raspberries, and a drizzle of honey if desired.
- Chill for 15–30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Adjust whisky to taste or omit for an alcohol-free version.
- Use heather honey for traditional Scottish flavor.
- Can be assembled ahead but best enjoyed within a few hours to retain texture.
- Try swapping raspberries with blackberries or strawberries for variation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 330 kcal
- Sugar: 14 g
- Sodium: 25 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 19 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg