Strawberries and Cream (Easy Classic Dessert)
Strawberries and cream is a light, refreshing, and delicious dessert that’s perfect when you’re craving one of the best no-bake treats. Made with just five pantry-staple ingredients, this classic dessert is always a crowd-pleaser.
This classic strawberries and cream dessert combines fresh, juicy strawberries and fluffy whipped cream for an easy, no-bake treat. Lightly sweetened with maple syrup, it’s simple enough for everyday enjoyment yet elegant enough for everything from casual outdoor gatherings to fancy dinner parties.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Flavor: The strawberries bring a bright, fresh, and fruity flavor to this dessert, and when paired with sweet cream, it becomes the perfect cool treat for a warm day.
- Easy to Make: This strawberries and cream recipe is incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying this indulgent dessert in no time.
- Elegant Presentation: Although simple to make, this dessert looks very elegant. The vibrant red strawberries against the white cream create a beautiful, classic contrast.
Key Ingredients
- Strawberries: You can’t make strawberries and cream without strawberries! Be sure to choose the ripest, juiciest berries you can find for the best fresh flavor.
- Maple Syrup: Maple syrup is used as a natural sweetener in this recipe. It adds a rich, slightly nutty sweetness with warm hints of vanilla and cinnamon.
- Whipping Cream: Next, we’ll need heavy whipping cream. Its silky texture and mild sweetness perfectly balance the tartness of the strawberries.
- Sugar: A bit of sugar is added to sweeten the cream. If possible, use organic sugar for the best flavor.
- Salt: Finally, a small pinch of salt helps balance the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the dessert.
For a full list of ingredients and quantities, please check the recipe card at the end of this post.
How to Make Strawberries and Cream Parfaits
Rinse & Dry: Thoroughly rinse the strawberries, then pat them dry with a paper towel.
Cut the Strawberries: Leave them whole or slice, dice, or quarter them = whichever you prefer.
Sweeten: Place the strawberries in a large bowl and drizzle with maple syrup. Let them sit while you prepare the cream.
Beat cream: Beat cold heavy cream with sugar and a pinch of sea salt until it thickens, stopping when soft peaks form.
How to Assemble Strawberries and Cream
- Add a fresh strawberry on top, then drizzle with the remaining strawberry syrup.
- Fill small parfait cups with the maple syrup–coated strawberries.
- Top each cup with whipped cream.
Serve: Serve the parfaits right away, or chill them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to enjoy. Either way, your delicious strawberries and cream is ready to be served!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in parfait glasses for a pretty, layered presentation.
- Pair with a strawberry cake for an extra burst of strawberry flavor.
- Use as a topping for waffles, pancakes, or crepes.
- Add a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for a richer dessert.
- Sprinkle with chopped nuts or toasted coconut for added crunch.
Strawberries and Cream Variation Ideas
- Add graham crackers: Layer graham cracker crumbs between the strawberries and cream for a crunchy texture.
- Add nuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts on top for a nutty flavor and extra crunch.
- Change the syrup: Swap maple syrup for honey or agave to switch up the flavor profile.
- Try different fruits: Use other fruits with the cream for a new twist – mango, peach, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries all work well.
- Make it sweeter: Dust with powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
- Use a different cream: Try a different base like sour cream, cream cheese, Greek yogurt, or even your favorite frosting for a thicker or tangier finish.
How to Store Leftovers
- Store any leftover strawberries and cream in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Do not freeze, as the texture will change once thawed.
- Since it’s so easy to make, it’s best enjoyed fresh – but leftovers still taste great!
See all dessert recipes.
Strawberries and Cream (Easy Classic Dessert)
Ingredients
Classic Strawberries and Cream Ingredients
- 1½ lbs. fresh strawberries
- ¼ organic maple syrup
- 2 cups organic heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup organic sugar
- ½ tsp. vanilla extract (optional)
- pinch of sea salt
- parfait cups
Instructions
- Thoroughly rinse the strawberries under cold water, then gently pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Leave the berries whole or slice, dice, or quarter them based on your preference.
- Place the strawberries in a large bowl and drizzle with maple syrup. Toss gently to coat, then let them sit for at least 10 – 15 minutes while you prepare the cream.
- In a chilled bowl, beat cold heavy cream with sugar and a pinch of sea salt until it thickens. Stop when soft peaks form (the cream should hold its shape but still be light and fluffy).
- Fill small parfait cups with the maple syrup–coated strawberries, then top each cup with a generous layer of whipped cream.
- Place a fresh strawberry on top of the cream and drizzle with the remaining strawberry syrup for extra flavor and color.
- Serve the parfaits immediately, or chill them in the refrigerator for a bit before serving. Either way, your delicious strawberries and cream is ready to enjoy!
Notes
- Use fresh strawberries: The strawberries you choose will make or break this dessert, so be sure they are fresh and ripe for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overbeat the cream: Stop whipping the cream once soft peaks form, or it will become too thick.
- Let the strawberries soak: For the best flavor, let the berries sit in the syrup for at least 20 minutes so they can fully absorb the sweetness.
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