Strawberries and cream is a classic dessert that perfectly captures the essence of summer. This simple yet elegant treat showcases the natural sweetness of ripe strawberries complemented by a luscious, velvety cream.

Whether you’re enjoying it as a light snack, a sweet ending to a meal, or a refreshing treat on a warm day, strawberries and cream is sure to delight your taste buds. This recipe is incredibly versatile; you can adjust the sweetness of the cream to your liking and even experiment with different flavorings. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that feels special and indulgent!

Necessary Kitchen Equipment

Mixing Bowl: For combining the cream and sugar.
Electric Mixer or Whisk: To whip the cream to the desired consistency.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements.
Serving Bowls or Glasses: To present the dessert beautifully.

Ingredient Overview

Fresh Strawberries: The star of the dish, choose ripe and juicy strawberries for the best flavor.
Heavy Whipping Cream: Provides a rich and creamy base.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cream to complement the strawberries.
Vanilla Extract: Adds a lovely depth of flavor to the cream (optional).
Mint Leaves (optional): For garnish, adding a touch of color and freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries
Rinse 2 cups of fresh strawberries under cool water. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Hull the strawberries (remove the green tops) and cut them in half or quarters, depending on their size. Place them in a bowl and sprinkle with a little sugar if desired; this will help enhance their natural sweetness. Set aside to macerate for about 10-15 minutes.
Make the Whipped Cream
In a mixing bowl, pour 1 cup of heavy whipping cream. Add 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (if using). Using an electric mixer or whisk, beat the cream until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip, as you want a light and fluffy texture.
Assemble the Dish
In serving bowls or glasses, layer the macerated strawberries and whipped cream. You can alternate layers for a beautiful presentation or simply spoon the cream over the strawberries.
Garnish and Serve
If desired, garnish with a few fresh mint leaves for added color and flavor. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving.

Recipe Tips

Use high-quality, fresh strawberries for the best flavor.
For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or use a whipped topping.
Feel free to experiment with flavors by adding a splash of liqueur, like Grand Marnier, to the strawberries or cream.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Strawberries and cream can be enjoyed on their own or served alongside a slice of cake, shortcakes, or even pancakes for a delightful brunch. Pair with a glass of sparkling wine for an elegant dessert option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make the cream ahead of time?
A: Whipped cream is best made fresh, as it can lose its texture when stored. If you need to prepare it in advance, store it in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.

Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?
A: Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but they should be thawed and drained before using to avoid excess moisture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve strawberries and cream in elegant glass dishes to showcase the beautiful layers. This dessert is perfect for picnics, summer gatherings, or as a sweet finish to a dinner party.

Ingredients

For the Strawberries and Cream
- 2 cups fresh strawberries
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (more or less to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare strawberries by rinsing, hulling, and slicing; set aside to macerate with sugar.
In a bowl, whip heavy cream with sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
Layer macerated strawberries and whipped cream in serving bowls.
Garnish with mint leaves and serve.

Summary

Strawberries and cream is a timeless dessert that highlights the natural sweetness of strawberries, enhanced by rich whipped cream. It’s simple to prepare yet feels special, making it a perfect treat for any occasion!

Notes

Feel free to customize this recipe with additional toppings like chocolate shavings, crushed cookies, or a drizzle of honey for added flavor and texture. Enjoy your delightful strawberries and cream!