Strawberry Heaven
A delightful dessert featuring layers of macerated strawberries, whipped cream, and a buttery crumb base, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients
For the strawberries
- 1.5-2 lbs Fresh strawberries Ripe but firm. Substitute frozen (thawed and drained) if needed.
- 2-4 tbsp Granulated sugar For maceration. Adjust to berry sweetness.
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice Fresh lemon juice brightens the berries.
For the crumb base
- 3 cups Butter cookies or graham crackers (crushed) Alternatively, cubed pound cake.
- 3-4 tbsp Unsalted butter (melted) To bind crumbs.
For the whipped cream
- 2 cups Heavy cream (whipped) For a lighter version use mascarpone or cream cheese.
- 1/3-1/2 cup Powdered sugar To sweeten the cream smoothly.
- 1 tsp alcohol-free vanilla extract
- 1 tsp Unflavored gelatin (optional) To stabilize whipped cream if making ahead.
- 1 tbsp Strawberry syrup or orange syrup (optional) For adult flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Hull and slice the strawberries. Toss with sugar and lemon juice, and let sit for 15-30 minutes to macerate.
- Crush cookies or cube cake, then combine with melted butter until mixture holds together. Spread into the bottom of a trifle bowl or divide among jars.
- Chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla to soft peaks. Optionally, dissolve gelatin in water and whisk into the cream for stability.
Assembly
- Layer the crumb mixture, followed by whipped cream and macerated strawberries. Repeat the layers until finished, topping with berries.
Chilling
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally 4, to let flavors meld and texture set.
- Serve chilled.
Notes
Great for potlucks, brunches, or as a no-bake dessert. Can be made a day ahead for better flavor and texture.