Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits are a delightful mix of fluffy whipped cream, sweet strawberries, and buttery cake. strawberry shortcake cheesecake roll Each spoonful is a burst of flavor that dances on your taste buds. lemon lime cherry cheesecake strawberry dole whip treat.
Imagine hosting a summer picnic where everyone’s faces light up at the sight of these stunning parfaits. The laughter and joy as they dig in make every bite even sweeter.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits recipe is simple to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion
- The combination of fresh strawberries and creamy layers creates a feast for the eyes and palate
- You can easily customize it by adding other fruits or flavored creams
- Ideal for summer gatherings, picnics, or just satisfying your sweet tooth at home
One summer evening, my family gathered around the table for dessert. As I served these parfaits, everyone’s eyes widened with delight, and I knew I had hit the jackpot. colorful fruit salad.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Strawberries: Look for vibrant red strawberries that are firm to the touch for the best flavor.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar helps enhance the sweetness of the strawberries while balancing their acidity.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Use cold heavy cream for maximum volume when whipping; it creates rich and luscious layers.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract adds a warm, aromatic note that complements the sweetness beautifully.
- Shortcake or Pound Cake: Opt for a light shortcake or dense pound cake; both add a delightful texture to each layer.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
**Prepare the Strawberries**: Start by washing your strawberries under cool water. Remove their stems and slice them into quarters. Sprinkle sugar over them to enhance their natural sweetness and let them sit for about 15 minutes until they release their juices.
**Whip the Cream**: In a mixing bowl, pour in your cold heavy cream and add vanilla extract along with a tablespoon of sugar. Using an electric mixer, whip until soft peaks form—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Avoid over-whipping to prevent butter from forming. For more inspiration, check out this delightfully soft vanilla cupcakes recipe.
**Layering Begins**: Grab your parfait glasses or bowls; start with a layer of cake at the bottom followed by those luscious strawberries. Spoon on some whipped cream next—repeat this process until you reach the top of your container.
**Finishing Touches**: For an extra touch of elegance, dollop more whipped cream on top and garnish with a whole strawberry or mint leaves if you’re feeling fancy.
**Chill Before Serving**: Place your assembled parfaits in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving; this allows all those flavors to mingle beautifully together.
Enjoying Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits is not just about savoring dessert; it’s about celebrating life’s sweet moments with those you love! For more inspiration, check out this more delicious dessert recipes recipe.
You Must Know
- Strawberry shortcake parfaits are a delightful dessert, layering fresh strawberries with creamy goodness
- Using ripe strawberries makes a huge difference in flavor and sweetness
- This simple yet elegant treat is perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to fancy dinner parties
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by preparing the strawberries first to allow their juices to develop while you whip the cream. Next, layer the components in clear glasses for an eye-catching presentation, ensuring each bite is balanced.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out strawberries for other berries like blueberries or raspberries. You can also add a splash of vanilla extract or almond extract to the whipped cream for extra flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store the parfaits in the refrigerator for up to two days, but keep whipped cream separate until serving. Avoid freezing as it affects texture and flavor quality.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for maximum sweetness and flavor in your parfaits
- Layering ingredients carefully helps maintain texture and visual appeal
- Don’t skip the chilling step; it enhances flavors and allows time for the juice to mingle beautifully
Nothing warms my heart quite like the time my niece declared these parfaits “the best thing ever!” The joy on her face made all the effort worthwhile.
FAQ
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use coconut cream or Greek yogurt as lighter alternatives.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply replace traditional cake with gluten-free biscuits or sponge cakes.
Can I prepare these parfaits a day in advance?
Absolutely! Just keep whipped cream separate until you’re ready to serve.
Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits
- Total Time: 9 minute
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the refreshing delight of Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits, a perfect summer treat that combines layers of sweet strawberries, fluffy whipped cream, and buttery cake. Each parfait is a visual masterpiece and a flavor explosion, making it the ideal dessert for picnics or family gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this elegant dessert that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for strawberries)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for cream)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups shortcake or pound cake, cubed
Instructions
- Prepare the Strawberries: In a bowl, combine quartered strawberries with 2 tablespoons of sugar. Let them sit for 15 minutes to release their juices.
- Whip the Cream: In a mixing bowl, beat cold heavy cream with 1 tablespoon of sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form (about 3-5 minutes). Be careful not to over-whip.
- Layer Ingredients: In parfait glasses, start with a layer of cake cubes, followed by strawberries, and then whipped cream. Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled.
- Chill: Refrigerate assembled parfaits for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld together.
- Serve: Top with additional whipped cream and garnish with whole strawberries or mint leaves as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No cooking required
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 parfait (200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: For variations, swap out strawberries for blueberries or raspberries. Add almond extract to the whipped cream for an extra flavor twist. Store leftover parfaits in the fridge for up to two days but keep whipped cream separate until serving.