Creamy Strawberry Dessert

This luxurious creamy strawberry dessert is a delightful way to end any meal, combining the richness of whipped cream with the refreshing taste of fresh strawberries. It's a treat that's perfect for impressing guests or indulging yourself on a special occasion. The process involves gently heating cream with sugar, then combining it with fresh lemon juice to create a slightly tangy and smooth texture. Once chilled, the dessert is topped with a vibrant mixture of strawberries and aromatic herbs. A hint of red wine adds an unexpected but sophisticated flair. This easy-to-follow recipe takes only about 30 minutes to prepare, though it requires a few hours to chill, making it a perfect make-ahead option for dinner parties. With minimal ingredients, it focuses on bringing out the natural flavors of its components. Both basil and mint can be used, allowing for some customization based on personal preference. The balance of creamy, sweet, and tart elements makes it a wonderful dining experience that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 500 g sweet cream
• 100 g sugar
• 1 lemon
• Strawberries

Spices and Flavorings

• Vanilla sugar
• Powdered sugar
• A few leaves of basil or mint
• 1 dessert spoon of dry red wine

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes (Preparation: 30 minutes, Chilling: 3 hours)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cream Base: In a saucepan, combine the sweet cream and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture begins to boil softly. Ensure that the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add Flavorings: Add vanilla sugar to the cream as it heats, enhancing the aroma and flavor.
3. Incorporate Lemon: Cut the lemon in half and squeeze out the juice. Slowly whisk this into the hot cream mixture, taking care to mix it thoroughly until well combined.
4. Whip and Cool: Transfer the cream mixture to a bowl and whip until it starts to thicken slightly. Divide the mixture into serving glasses or bowls, and place them in the refrigerator to chill for about 3 hours. This sets the creamy dessert, making it firm yet smooth.
5. Prepare the Strawberry Topping: While the dessert chills, slice the strawberries into thin pieces and place them in a separate bowl.
6. Flavor the Topping: Add basil or mint leaves, powdered sugar, and a splash of dry red wine to the strawberries. Mix gently to coat the fruit evenly.
7. Assembly: Once the cream has set in the refrigerator, take the serving glasses out and add the strawberry mixture on top. This not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of fresh flavor.
8. Final Touch: Garnish with a sprig of basil or mint for a touch of elegance and aroma.

Tips

• Whipping Technique: Ensure the cream is cold before whipping for better volume and texture.
• Substitutions: For a non-alcoholic version, skip the wine or substitute with a bit of grape juice.
• Flavor Twist: Try adding a few grinds of black pepper to the strawberries for a surprising contrast.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
• Protein: 2g
• Fats: 27g
• Carbs: 18g

Variations

• Vegan Option: Use coconut cream instead of dairy cream and replace honey with maple syrup.
• Dietary Adjustments: Use a sugar substitute like stevia for a lower-calorie version.

Serving Suggestions

• Excellent on its own or paired with a light dessert wine.
• Serve alongside soft cheeses for a luxurious cheese board.
• Garnish with dark chocolate shavings for an added layer of indulgence.

Best Places

1. The Strawberry Lounge - Known for exquisite desserts featuring locally sourced fruits. Location: 25 Greenway St, London, UK.
2. Sweet Herb Bistro - Offers a unique twist on traditional desserts with a focus on fresh herbs. Location: 1095 Main St, Toronto, Canada.
3. La Crème Patisserie - Famous for its creamy desserts over lush fruits. Location: 14 Rue du Parc, Paris, France.
4. Berry Blend Café - Serves seasonal fruit desserts with organic ingredients. Location: 234 Orchard Rd, Singapore.
5. Café Aroma - A quaint café known for its aromatic and flavorful creations. Location: 45 Market Lane, Melbourne, Australia.
6. Pudding House - Offers a diverse range of creamy desserts with a rustic touch. Location: 87 Piazza San Marco, Venice, Italy.
7. Herb & Sweet - Renowned for combining herbs with sweet treats, making for a unique taste experience. Location: 542 Forest Ave, New York, USA.
8. Fruit & Crema - Specializes in fresh fruit desserts that highlight natural flavors. Location: 77 El Camino Real, Madrid, Spain.
9. The Dessert Lab - A culinary exploration of flavor, known for adventurous dessert pairings. Location: 300 Mainz St, Frankfurt, Germany.
10. Hidden Berry Café - A hidden gem serving innovative and delicious desserts. Location: 102 Dahlia Way, Cape Town, South Africa.

Enjoy crafting and tasting this elegant dessert, perfect for any occasion!