Gluten Free

This dessert relies on the same browning and deglazing techniques used for savory dishes. Many fruits benefit from a quick sauté, and their natural sugars—brought to the surface as juices evaporate—aid in the caramelization process. If you prefer not to use rum, you can substitute more pineapple juice.

The rich, tangy crème fraîche and a bit of vinegar cut the sweetness of the berries. You can use vanilla ice cream in place of the crème fraîche.

These pears may be refrigerated in their cooking liquid overnight.

Homemade citrus curd—a mixture of eggs, sugar, butter, and orange and lime juices—adds tangy flavor to this mousse.

The sauce can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Warm over gentle heat just before serving.

If you cannot find pluots, a plum-apricot hybrid, you can substitute more plums.

The lemon slices can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature up to 1 day.

This recipe is versatile. You can use any firm-flesh pears or apples—or a combination; just be sure the size of the fruits you use is uniform. You can also try another dry whole spice (such as cinnamon or cloves) in place of the star anise.

Sabayon is the French term for zabaglione, a frothy Italian concoction that can be served warm as a sauce or chilled as a creamy dessert on its own. We added a bit of peach-flavored liqueur to enhance the flavor of the fruit, but the sabayon is just as delicious without.

The steeping liquid needs to chill for at least 4 hours, so plan accordingly.