Cassata II

Ingredients

 * 3 tablespoons dark rum or amaretto
 * 1 tablespoon orange-flavored liqueur
 * 3/4 cup mixed candied fruit, chopped
 * 3/4 cup whipping cream
 * 1 quart French vanilla ice cream, slightly softened
 * 1/2 cup pistachio nuts, chopped
 * 1/2 cup coarsely chopped semisweet chocolate
 * whipped cream and Candied cherries for garnish (optional)

Directions
Combine rum, liqueur, and candied fruit in a small bowl; set aside for at least half an hour.

2. Meanwhile, line a 2-quart loaf pan or mold with a large piece of plastic wrap, pressing it well into the corners. In a medium bowl, whip the cream to soft peaks.

3. Spoon softened ice cream into a large bowl; fold in rum-fruit mixture, pistachio nuts, and chocolate. Gently fold in whipped cream.

4. Pour into plastic-lined pan. Tap the pan against a cutting board several times to fill the corners. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze overnight.

5. To serve, invert the pan on a chilled platter. Lift off the pan and remove the plastic wrap. Garnish cassata with whipped cream rosettes, Candied cherries, or a light dusting of cocoa (if desired). Cut into slices.

NOTE: Cassata can be either fruit-filled ice cream, as it is here, or a rich layer cake with ricotta cheese, fruit, chocolate, and cream.