I would say I'm a pretty legit Harry Potter fan. I wouldn’t say that I’m like the #1 Harry Potter fan, because I know people that are way more obsessed than I am. But I have listened to the audiobooks twice (the original Jim Dale versions). So you could definitely say I’m a fan. Fun fact: Helga Hufflepuff specialized in cooking spells! #hufflepuffforlife
Every fall, one of the things I crave most is a Harry Potter movie marathon on the weekend. In the movies, there’s a lot of sweater weather and Christmas scenes, so it really gets me in the mood. One of the things I end up craving while watching the movies is butterbeer. It is described by J.K. Rowling as tasting like “less sickly butterscotch”. I have tried actual frozen butterbeer, served at Harry Potter World and approved by J.K. Rowling, and it’s kind of like cream soda but with some butterscotch syrup and a marshmallowy foam on top. It’s DELICIOUS. This recipe isn’t an exact replica, but it is just as delicious. To me, it’s got a more complex flavor to it, with the touch of sea salt and molasses. If you want to make this alcoholic, you can totally add a dash of amaretto.
What makes this recipe enchanting:
A salted caramel soda that takes very little effort
A fluffy marshmallow topping
Can be made for Harry Potter themed nights, but also perfect for any fall-themed party!
More fun dessert recipes:
Serves 2 wizards or witches:
½ cup heavy whipping cream
½ cup marshmallow fluff
About 12 oz. crushed ice
2 tablespoons dulce de leche
2 teaspoons molasses
1 pinch sea salt flakes
About 2 cups or so of good-quality cream soda, 1 bottle's worth
For the marshmallow mousse foam head:
Using an electric hand mixer, whip the cream in a medium-sized bowl on medium speed until soft peaks form (means it's starting to get firm, but still drips when you pick up the beaters). When soft peaks form, stop the mixer, add the marshmallow fluff, and whip on low speed until stiff peaks form (means the cream will not drip when the mixer is turned off and the beaters are picked up).
For the butterscotch slushy base:
In a small bowl, whisk the butter, molasses, and the dulce de leche together, and then stir in the sea salt flakes. Pulse the dulce de leche mixture with some of the crushed ice in a large food processor to create a slushy. Pulse it well, I hate getting large chunks of ice in my butterbeer.
To assemble:
Spoon the butterscotch slushy mixture into 2 glasses until about 3/4 full. Pour the cream soda on top, until it reaches the top of the slushy mixture. Divide the marshmallow mousse among the glasses, and enjoy with a spoon! And, of course, a Harry Potter movie. And maybe a cozy blanket.