The recipe you’re asking about, “A Fool for Strawberries,” is a classic dessert that celebrates the delightful combination of strawberries and cream. This dessert has a rich history and is often associated with British cuisine. Its origins can be traced back to the 16th century when fruit fools became popular in England.
Recipe Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Recipe Instructions:
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In a bowl, combine the halved strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Toss gently to coat the strawberries in the sugar. Let them sit for about 15-20 minutes to release their juices and macerate.
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In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form. This can take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
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Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the whipped cream. Continue to whip until the cream reaches stiff peaks. This should take an additional 1-2 minutes.
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Using a fork or a potato masher, lightly crush the macerated strawberries. You can adjust the level of crushing depending on your preference for texture.
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Gently fold the crushed strawberries into the whipped cream. This creates a swirled effect and a beautiful pink color.
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Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness if needed by adding a bit more sugar or lemon juice according to your preference.
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Spoon the strawberry and cream mixture into serving glasses or bowls. You can layer it or simply fill the glasses with the mixture.
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Chill the dessert in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together and the dessert to set.
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Before serving, garnish each glass with a fresh mint leaf for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Preparation Time:
- The preparation time for “A Fool for Strawberries” is approximately 30 minutes, including macerating the strawberries, whipping the cream, and assembling the dessert.
- Additional time of 1-2 hours is needed for chilling the dessert in the refrigerator before serving.
This dessert is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors, and its creamy texture makes it a perfect treat for warm weather or any special occasion. Enjoy making and savoring this classic strawberry dessert with a rich history!
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for the “A Fool for Strawberries” dessert:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values per Serving):
- Calories: ~220 kcal
- Total Fat: ~15g
- Saturated Fat: ~9g
- Cholesterol: ~55mg
- Sodium: ~20mg
- Total Carbohydrates: ~21g
- Dietary Fiber: ~2g
- Sugars: ~17g
- Protein: ~1.5g
- Vitamin C: ~60% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Calcium: ~4% of the DV
- Iron: ~2% of the DV
Health Information:
- Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and dietary fiber, which contribute to a healthy immune system and digestive health.
- The heavy whipping cream used in the dessert is a source of saturated fat and cholesterol. While small portions can be enjoyed, it’s advisable to consume high-fat ingredients in moderation.
- The natural sweetness of strawberries provides a delicious flavor without excessive added sugars.
- The dessert is relatively low in sodium, which is beneficial for those watching their salt intake.
- The dessert can be a satisfying treat in moderation, especially when using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Remember that actual values can vary based on portion sizes, specific ingredients used, and individual dietary needs. Always consider your personal health goals and consult with a healthcare professional if you have specific dietary concerns or restrictions.
