Skip to main content

Cranachan: a traditional Scottish dessert

This simple treat offers hearty sustenance.

Cranachan is a traditional Scottish dessert that has been enjoyed for centuries, particularly in the Scottish Highlands. The exact origins of the dessert are unclear, but it is thought to have evolved from a dish known as crowdie, which was a mixture of oatmeal, cream, and honey.

Over time, other ingredients such as whisky and berries were added to the dish, giving it the name Cranachan. Whisky was a particularly local ingredient, as it was readily available in the Highlands and was often used in cooking and baking.

Cranachan was traditionally served at special occasions such as weddings and festivals, and it was also popular among soldiers and hunters as a nourishing and energizing snack. In fact, it was often served to soldiers during the Jacobite Uprisings in the 18th century, as it provided them with much-needed sustenance on long marches.

Today, Cranachan is still a beloved Scottish dessert and is enjoyed by people all over the world. While the basic recipe has remained largely unchanged, variations with different fruits, nuts, and liqueurs have emerged over time, adding new dimensions to this classic dish.

 

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
  • 2 tablespoons whisky (optional)

 

Instructions:

  • Toast the oats in a dry frying pan over medium heat until golden brown and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Set aside to cool.
  • In a mixing bowl, whip the cream until it forms soft peaks.
  • Fold in the toasted oats and honey, stirring gently to combine.
  • Add the whisky and stir to combine.
  • Layer the whipped cream mixture and fresh raspberries in dessert bowls or glasses.
  • Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.


Optional: Before serving, garnish with additional fresh raspberries and a sprinkle of toasted oats. Enjoy!

Scotland Tours

Showing 7 of 7 total

Taste of Scotland

Starting from $1,345

4.6
5/6 Days

Explore the very best of Scotland's gorgeous scenery and bustling cities on this short-and-sweet introductory tour. 

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups

The Scots Irish Tour

Starting from $3,595

4.9
11/15 Days

This fast-paced Scotland and Ireland tour focuses on their rich history, with plenty of castle tours and museums to help bring the past to life. It's the perfect trip for those interested in…

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups

Best of the Best - Use Code BEST1025

Scottish & Irish Gold

Starting from $4,495

4.8
15/16 Days

This great combination tour covers the same itinerary in Scotland as on the Scottish & Irish Dream with romantic castles, mythical Isle of Skye, historic Culloden, and Edinburgh. In Ireland…

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups

Best of the Best - Use Code BEST1025

Scottish Dream

Starting from $2,695

4.8
8/9 Days

Check the must-sees off of your wish list on this good-value Scotland tour, which is an ideal introduction to the bustling cities and breathtaking landscapes.

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups

Scottish Clans & Castles

Starting from $3,045

4.6
10/11 Days

Revisit the past on this leisurely Scottish tour filled with castle ruins, ancient battlefields, and colorful stories from the country's rich history.

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups

Scottish Isles & Glens

Starting from $3,995

4.8
12/13 Days

Head a little off the beaten path on this tour of Scotland's rugged Highlands, coastal byways, and the archaeological treasures on Orkney and the Isle of Skye.

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups

Best of the Best - Use Code BEST1025

Taste of Scotland & Ireland

Starting from $2,895

10/11 Days

The perfect combination of two great countries in one itinerary. Start in Glasgow before exploring the Scottish Highlands with a Loch Ness cruise and whisky tasting. Visit St Andrews and Edinburgh…

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups

How can we help you?

Contact US