Rye Bread Trifle (Rupjmaizes Kārtojums)

Experience one of Latvia's most distinctive and celebrated desserts: Rupjmaizes Kārtojums. This unique trifle showcases the versatility of Latvian dark rye bread (rupjmaize), transforming it into a sweet treat. Layers of toasted, slightly caramelized rye bread crumbs provide a wonderful textural contrast to clouds of lightly sweetened whipped cream and the bright tang of tart berry jam, traditionally cranberry or lingonberry. It's a fascinating and delicious combination of earthy, creamy, and fruity flavors, typically served chilled after the layers have had time to meld.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

• 200g dark Latvian rye bread (rupjmaize), crusts removed, preferably slightly stale
• 2-3 tbsp butter
• 2-3 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
• 500ml (about 2 cups) heavy whipping cream
• 3-4 tbsp powdered sugar (or to taste)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup tart berry jam (cranberry, lingonberry, or blackcurrant recommended)
• Optional garnish: Fresh berries, chocolate shavings

Instructions

1. Grate the rye bread coarsely or process it into crumbs in a food processor.
2. Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the rye bread crumbs, sugar, and optional cinnamon.
3. Toast the crumbs, stirring frequently, until they are fragrant, slightly crispy, and lightly caramelized (about 5-8 minutes). Be careful not to burn them. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
4. In a large chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
5. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip into butter.
6. Choose serving glasses or a single trifle bowl.
7. Assemble the dessert in layers: Start with a layer of the toasted rye bread crumbs at the bottom.
8. Add a layer of whipped cream over the crumbs.
9. Dot or spread a layer of the tart berry jam over the cream.
10. Repeat the layers (crumbs, cream, jam) until you reach the top of the glass/bowl, typically ending with a layer of whipped cream.
11. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2-4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the crumbs to soften slightly.
12. Garnish with fresh berries or chocolate shavings just before serving, if desired.