Who can resist the sweet, juicy flavor of strawberries? From their vivid red hue to their fragrance, strawberries captivate our senses. They make desserts not only delicious but visually stunning too. Whether you’re looking for a classic treat or something innovative, strawberries are a versatile ingredient that enhances any recipe. Let’s explore four delectable strawberry desserts that are sure to satisfy cravings.
Classic Strawberry Shortcake
Strawberry shortcake stands as an iconic summer dessert. Imagine fluffy biscuits, fresh strawberries, and velvety whipped cream. It’s simple yet full of flavor, making it a timeless favorite.
Ingredients
- For the Biscuits:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- For the Strawberries:
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- For the Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation Steps
- Prepare the Strawberries: Toss the sliced strawberries with sugar. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes to macerate.
- Make the Biscuits: Preheat the oven to 425°F. In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the milk until just combined.
- Shape the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it lightly. Roll out to about 1-inch thickness and cut out biscuits using a round cutter.
- Bake the Biscuits: Place the biscuits on a baking sheet, brush the tops with beaten egg, and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown. Let them cool slightly.
- Whip the Cream: In a chilled bowl, whip the cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Assemble the Shortcakes: Split the biscuits, layer with strawberries, and top with whipped cream.
Decadent Strawberry Cheesecake
Strawberry cheesecake combines creamy richness with fruity sweetness. There are endless variations, but the classic version never disappoints.
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- For the Filling:
- 32 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- For the Strawberry Topping:
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Baking Process
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat oven to 325°F. Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool.
- Make the Filling: Beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, blending well. Mix in vanilla and sour cream.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the crust. Bake for 55-60 minutes, until the center is set. Cool to room temperature, then chill for at least 4 hours.
- Prepare the Topping: In a saucepan, mix strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat until thickened. Allow to cool before spreading over the cheesecake.
Refreshing Strawberry Sorbet
A strawberry sorbet is a refreshing light dessert. It showcases the pure flavor of strawberries with a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup water
- Optional: 2 tablespoons vodka (to prevent freezing solid)
Making Sorbet
- Prepare the Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat until sugar dissolves. Cool the syrup.
- Blend the Strawberries: In a blender, puree strawberries with lemon juice. Strain the mixture to remove seeds.
- Combine Ingredients: Mix the strawberry puree with the cooled syrup. Add vodka if using.
- Freeze the Sorbet: Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Transfer to a container and freeze for several hours before serving.
Strawberry Galette
A strawberry galette is a rustic, free-form tart that’s easy to make and charming to serve. The flaky crust wraps around a juicy strawberry filling.
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/4 cup ice water
- For the Filling:
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Preparation and Baking
- Make the Crust: Combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles pea-sized crumbs. Add ice water gradually until the dough comes together. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling: Toss strawberries with sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
- Assemble the Galette: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Roll out the dough into a circle. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spoon the strawberry mixture onto the center, leaving a 2-inch border. Fold the edge over the filling.
- Bake the Galette: Bake for 35-40 minutes until the crust is golden and filling bubbly. Let it cool before slicing.
Dive Into Strawberry Desserts
Making strawberry desserts can be a delightful and rewarding experience. From the classic shortcake to refreshing sorbet, these recipes celebrate strawberries in their finest forms. They’re versatile and can be used in countless other desserts too. Get creative, have fun, and enjoy the sweet rewards of these delicious treats!