Strawberries Romanoff Recipe
If you’re looking for a sophisticated, yet incredibly easy dessert that will impress guests at your next summer gathering, Strawberries Romanoff is a must-try. A delightful blend of fresh, sweet strawberries, velvety whipped cream, and rich vanilla ice cream, this classic dessert is as refreshing as it is indulgent. Originally published in Bon Appetit in the September 1999 issue and shared by our local city paper, this recipe combines the elegance of liqueur-soaked berries with the decadence of whipped cream and ice cream. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a sweet treat, this recipe offers an effortless way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Here’s how you can make it!
Recipe Overview:
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Recipe Category: Smoothies/Desserts
- Servings: 6
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh strawberries | 2 cups (sliced) |
| Granulated sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Vanilla ice cream | 1/4 cup |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Orange liqueur (optional) | 1 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 302.9 kcal |
| Fat Content | 20.3 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 12.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 75.3 mg |
| Sodium | 54.4 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 29.8 g |
| Fiber Content | 2.7 g |
| Sugar Content | 24 g |
| Protein Content | 3.3 g |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Strawberries:
Start by slicing the fresh strawberries into bite-sized pieces. For the best flavor, choose ripe, sweet strawberries that are in season. Once sliced, place the strawberries in a large mixing bowl. -
Macera the Strawberries:
To bring out the sweetness of the strawberries and add a hint of complexity, toss them with the sugar and a tablespoon of orange liqueur (such as Grand Marnier or Cointreau). The liqueur enhances the strawberries’ natural flavor and adds a subtle citrusy note. Set the bowl aside and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the strawberries to macerate. The longer you let them sit, the more flavorful the berries will become as they soak in the sugar and liqueur. -
Prepare the Cream Mixture:
While the strawberries are macerating, place the heavy cream in a chilled mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to whip the cream. Continue whipping until it forms soft peaks, which should take about 12 minutes. The cream should hold its shape but remain soft and billowyโnot too stiff. -
Incorporate Ice Cream:
Once the cream has reached soft peaks, gently fold in the vanilla ice cream. Allow the ice cream to soften slightly before adding it to the whipped cream, as this will help it blend smoothly. Use a spatula to fold the ice cream into the whipped cream, being careful not to deflate the mixture. -
Assemble the Dessert:
After the strawberries have macerated and the cream is ready, itโs time to assemble. Distribute the whipped cream and ice cream mixture evenly into 6 chilled bowls or glasses. -
Finish the Dish:
Take the remaining macerated strawberries and mix them with the plain, sliced berries. Carefully spoon the berry mixture on top of the whipped cream, creating a beautiful layered effect. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Once assembled, serve the Strawberries Romanoff immediately, or store in the refrigerator until ready to serve. The chilled dessert is perfect for warm summer evenings and offers a refreshing, creamy indulgence with every bite.
Tips:
- If you prefer to omit the alcohol, simply skip the orange liqueur. The macerated strawberries will still be sweet and delicious.
- For an extra indulgent treat, garnish with a few fresh mint leaves or a dusting of grated chocolate.
Variations:
- For a lighter version: Use a reduced-fat or dairy-free ice cream and swap the heavy cream for a lighter whipped topping.
- For extra flavor: Add a few drops of vanilla extract to the whipped cream for a deeper vanilla taste.
- For a crunch factor: Top with crushed biscotti or shortbread cookies for added texture.
Conclusion:
Strawberries Romanoff is an easy-to-make, yet elegant dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Its sweet, creamy, and slightly boozy flavors are sure to make it a crowd favorite, whether served at a summer dinner party or as a special treat after a family meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a luxurious dessert that looks as beautiful as it tastes.
