Anarokrema

Anarokrema (Greek: Αναρόκρεμα) is a traditional Cypriot dessert made primarily with anari cheese, a soft, mild whey cheese similar to ricotta. Soft cheese as part of the dessert is peculiar to Cypress and not often part of Greek desserts. The word combines the following:-

• Anari (the cheese)

• Krema (meaning “cream” in Greek)

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What Is It Exactly?

Anarokrema is a light, creamy dessert often served chilled. It’s typically made by blending fresh unsalted anari cheese with ingredients like:

• Sugar or honey (to sweeten)

• Rose water or orange blossom water (for fragrance)

• Cinnamon (sprinkled on top)

• Sometimes whipped cream or milk to make it smoother

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Texture & Taste:

• Texture: Soft, creamy, and a bit grainy depending on how finely the anari is mixed

• Flavor: Mild, slightly sweet, and floral from the rose/orange water

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How It’s Served:

• Usually served cold in small bowls or glasses

• Often garnished with crushed nuts, cinnamon, or a drizzle of honey

• Sometimes layered or mixed with fruit, like stewed quince or cherries

Anarokrema for Two

A traditional creamy Cypriot dessert made with anari cheese, sweetened and perfumed with rose water.

Servings: 2

Total Time: 10–15 minutes (plus chilling, optional)

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Equipment Needed:

• Medium mixing bowl

• Fork or whisk (or hand mixer for smoother texture)

• Measuring spoons and cups

• Serving bowls or glasses

• Grater or zester (optional, for garnish)

• Small spoon or spatula

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Ingredients:

• 200g fresh unsalted anari cheese (or substitute with ricotta if unavailable)

• 2 tbsp honey (or more to taste)

• 1 tbsp rose water (or orange blossom water)

• 2 tbsp milk or cream (optional, for a silkier texture)

• ¼ tsp cinnamon, for garnish

• Crushed pistachios or almonds, optional

• Zest of lemon or orange, optional

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Preparation:

1. Mash the Cheese

   • Place the anari in a mixing bowl. Use a fork or whisk to mash and break it down until soft and creamy. For an extra-smooth texture, use a hand mixer or blend briefly.

2. Sweeten & Flavor

   • Add honey and rose water. Stir until well combined.

   • If using, mix in a splash of milk or cream to loosen the texture.

3. Chill (Optional)

   • Chill for 30 minutes for a firmer, cooler dessert — or serve immediately if preferred soft and fresh.

4. Serve

   • Spoon into serving bowls or glasses.

   • Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon, crushed nuts, and zest if desired.

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Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)

Note: Values vary based on the brand of anari or if using ricotta or added cream.

Anarokrema with Stewed Cherries (for Two)

A creamy Cypriot dessert topped with fragrant, syrupy cherries.

Servings: 2

Total Time: 25 minutes (10 prep + 15 for cherries)

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Equipment Needed:

• Mixing bowl

• Fork, whisk, or hand mixer

• Small saucepan

• Measuring cups & spoons

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• Serving glasses or bowls

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Ingredients

For the Cream Base:

• 200g unsalted anari cheese (or ricotta)

• 2 tbsp honey (or to taste)

• 1 tbsp rose water (or orange blossom water)

• 1–2 tbsp milk or cream (optional, for creaminess)

For the Stewed Cherries:

• ¾ cup pitted cherries (fresh or frozen)

• 1½ tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)

• 1 tbsp water

• ½ tsp lemon juice

• Optional: small pinch of cinnamon or vanilla

Garnish:

• Crushed pistachios, almonds, or fresh mint leaves

• A light sprinkle of cinnamon (optional)

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Preparation

 1. Make the Cream:

1. In a bowl, mash the anari cheese with a fork or whisk until smooth.

2. Stir in honey and rose water. Adjust sweetness to taste.

3. Add a bit of milk or cream if a smoother, silkier texture is desired.

4. Chill while preparing the fruit (optional, but improves texture).

 2. Stew the Cherries:

1. In a small saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, water, and lemon juice.

2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 8–10 minutes until the cherries are soft and syrupy.

3. Add cinnamon or vanilla if using. Let it cool slightly.

 3. Assemble:

1. Spoon the anarokrema into two dessert bowls or glasses.

2. Top generously with warm or cooled stewed cherries and a spoonful of the syrup.

3. Sprinkle with crushed nuts or cinnamon if desired.

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Nutrition Info (Approx. per serving):

Values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.