White Chocolate Mousse with Raspberry Sauce

2 (10 oz.) packages frozen raspberries in syrup

juice of half a lemon

1/4 C. sugar

2 T. cornstarch

1/2 C. cold water

1 T. Grand Marnier or other liqueur (optional)

Mousse

1 t. unflavored gelatin

1/4 C. water

1/4 C. milk

5 oz. white chocolate; broken up

1 1/2 C. heavy whipping cream

For the raspberry sauce, combine undrained berries and lemon juice in processor or blender; puree. Strain, pressing with back of spoon. Add sugar, cornstarch, water and liqueur; blend well. Place in saucepan over medium heat; bring to boil, stirring frequently. Reduce heat and continue stirring one minute. Remove from heat and allow to cool until ready to use.

For the mousse, in a glass measuring cup, sprinkle gelatin over cold water and allow mixture to soften for 1 minute. Cook on high (100% power) for 20 seconds to 40 seconds and allow to stand for 2 minutes or until granules are completely dissolved. (Alternatively, place cup in a bowl of hot water and stir until completely dissolved.)

In a small saucepan, bring milk to the simmering point. Remove from heat and add white chocolate. Stir occasionally until chocolate is melted and mixture is smooth. Blend gelatin into chocolate mixture and refrigerate until slightly thickened but not gelled, about 10 minutes.

Whip cream until stiff and peaks hold their shape. Fold white chocolate mixture into whipped cream.

Beginning with raspberry sauce, alternate layers of mousse with raspberry sauce into four tall parfait glasses. Refrigerate one to two hours. To serve, garnish with partially frozen whole berries, or fresh if available.

Yield: 4 servings