Fresh Strawberry Cream Cups (No Sugar Added!)

Welcome to my little corner of the internet! Today, I’m so excited to share a recipe that feels like a hug in a cup. It’s perfect for those sunny afternoons when you’re craving something light, fresh, and naturally sweet. Picture this: the sun is setting, you’re sitting on your porch, and there’s a gentle summer breeze playing with your hair. What could make this moment more perfect? A delightful Fresh Strawberry Cream Cup—and the best part? There’s no added sugar! This recipe lets the strawberries shine in all their natural glory.

Let me tell you a little story. Growing up, my grandmother had a charming garden where strawberries grew in abundance. On weekends, she’d invite me over, and we’d pick the juiciest, ruby-red strawberries, our fingers stained with their sweet nectar. She always said, “Nature knows best,” and insisted that these strawberries needed no extra sugar. This recipe is a tribute to her wisdom and those cherished memories.

Ingredients

1 pound fresh strawberries: Make sure to pick the ripest strawberries you can find. They’re naturally sweet and will make all the difference in this recipe.
1 cup heavy cream: This gives our cups that luxurious, creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute with coconut cream.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A hint of vanilla will enhance the strawberries’ flavor without overshadowing it. Go for pure vanilla extract if you can—it’s worth it!
1 tablespoon lemon juice: This adds a touch of brightness and balances the creaminess beautifully.
Fresh mint leaves (for garnish): Optional, but they add a lovely pop of color and a refreshing aroma that complements the strawberries perfectly.

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries: Start by rinsing your strawberries under cool water. Remove the stems and slice them into quarters. Set aside a handful for garnishing later. The key here is to let them air dry for a bit, so they don’t water down our cream cups.
Whip the Cream: In a chilled bowl, pour in your heavy cream. Using a hand mixer, beat the cream until soft peaks form. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Add in the vanilla extract and continue whipping until you achieve a firm, fluffy texture. Be careful not to overbeat, as we want a smooth, creamy consistency.
Blend Strawberries with Lemon: In a blender, combine the majority of your strawberries with the lemon juice. Pulse until you have a smooth puree. The lemon juice will prevent the strawberries from browning and add a slight tangy note that’s irresistible.
Combine and Chill: Gently fold the strawberry puree into the whipped cream. Take your time with this step, as you want to maintain the fluffiness of the cream while incorporating the fruit. Once combined, spoon the mixture into serving cups or bowls and refrigerate for at least an hour.

Stay tuned for the second part of this recipe where we’ll garnish and serve these delightful cups, making them Instagram-worthy!

Fresh Strawberry Cream Cups (No Sugar Added!) – Tea Time with Naomi

Fresh Strawberry Cream Cups (No Sugar Added!)

By Naomi – October 25, 2023

Hello, dear friends! Today, I’m excited to share with you one of my all-time favorite dessert recipes: Fresh Strawberry Cream Cups. What I love most about these delightful treats is that they are naturally sweetened and require no added sugar. Simply perfect for those looking to indulge without the guilt!

Pro Tips for Perfection

Choose the Right Strawberries: Opt for ripe, sweet strawberries for the best natural sweetness. If you can find them, organic strawberries are even better!
Chill Your Cream: Make sure your cream is well-chilled before whipping. This helps it to whip up faster and hold its shape better.
Layer with Care: When assembling your cups, gently layer the cream and strawberry mixture to maintain the lightness of the whipped cream.

Variations and Substitutions

These Strawberry Cream Cups are wonderfully versatile! Here are a few delightful variations you can try:

Berry Mix: Swap out half of the strawberries for raspberries or blueberries for a mixed berry delight.
Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free option, use chilled coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
Nutty Crunch: Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios for an extra crunch.

What to Serve With

These Strawberry Cream Cups are a refreshing dessert that pairs beautifully with a light, crisp white wine or a soothing herbal tea. They also make a delightful accompaniment to a summer brunch spread with fresh salads and savory quiches.

Storage and Reheating Guidance

While these cream cups are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare them ahead of time. Simply cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. If you’ve used coconut cream, they can last up to 48 hours. Remember, the texture of the whipped cream might change slightly, but the flavors will remain delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?: Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid to avoid a watery cream cup.
What if I don’t have a piping bag for the cream?: No worries! You can simply use a spoon to layer the cream. It might not have the same look, but it’ll taste just as wonderful.
Can I add a sweetener to the cream?: Absolutely! If you prefer a touch more sweetness, consider adding a spoonful of honey or maple syrup to the whipped cream.

A Warm, Encouraging Final Note

Dear friends, I hope you find as much joy in making these Fresh Strawberry Cream Cups as I do. They are a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special and satisfying. Remember, the heart of cooking lies in sharing and enjoying what you create, so don’t hesitate to make these cups for family, friends, or just for yourself. Until next time, happy cooking and savor each moment!