dessert in perspective

Ok- I am now longer on safari in South Africa but that doesn’t mean one can’t find some sweet inspiration a little closer to home. The other week I took a group of aspiring photographers and art lovers up to the Springfield Art Museum to see the “Ohio Perspective” exhibit. It featured landscapes from across the state by renowned Ohio artists from the late 19th to early 21st century.

I had never been to Springfield but I’ve heard much about their Smithsonian affiliated museum. And because I was on an adventure roll I thought I’d see what else this sleepy historical town had to offer. I was excited to discover Seasons Bistro. It seemed the perfect place to have lunch after our morning art excursion. This quaint restaurant situated in the center block of Springfield had an eclectic menu. The seared tuna, kale salad, and personal flatbread pizzas exceeded all of our expectations. But the hands down winner turned out to be the Chocolate Dulce de Leche Bars served with Jeni’s salty caramel ice cream.

It was time for me to try to recreate this sweet treat in my own home- dulce de leche shortbread sundaes. If you’ve never had Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream you’ve been missing out.

And because those of you who know me know I am a lousy baker I picked up these bite sized shortbread cookies from Dorothy Lane Market.

La Salamandra Dulce de Leche is divine right out of the jar.

Simply spread a dollop of dulce de leche on each of the shortbread cookies. These can be loosely covered and refrigerated until needed.

With a small ice scream scoop I made mini scoops of caramel ice cream. These also can be made ahead of time. Make sure to chill a rimmed small metal baking sheet in the freezer, then place scoops on the cold sheet, cover loosely and place back in the freezer.

To serve place two caramel topped cookies on each dessert plate along with a trio of little scoops of salted caramel ice cream.  

A scrumptious dessert that comes together in a matter of minutes… that will put your entire dinner into perspective.

Oh and if you’re missing pictures of my wild animals you’ll just have to settle for my little Willie.