If you are looking for a delightful dessert that combines the freshness of ripe fruit with a luscious, herb-tinged topping, the Strawberries with Mint-Infused Cream Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dish pairs juicy strawberries with a subtly aromatic cream that carries the gentle essence of fresh mint, creating a harmonious blend of sweet and refreshing flavors. It’s an elegant yet simple treat perfect for any occasion, whether you want to impress guests or enjoy a moment of pure indulgence at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for just a handful of ingredients, each one playing a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and appearance. Simple, fresh, and essential components come together to make something truly spectacular.
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved: Ripe strawberries bring juicy sweetness and vibrant red color to the dish.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream: The base for the rich, creamy topping that will soak up the mint flavor beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar: Adds gentle sweetness while allowing the cream to whip perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the cream’s flavor with warm, comforting notes.
- 5-6 fresh mint leaves: The star of the flavor infusion, lending a refreshing herbal aroma.
- Optional: fresh mint sprigs for garnish: Adds a pretty and fragrant finishing touch.
How to Make Strawberries with Mint-Infused Cream Recipe
Step 1: Warm the Cream with Fresh Mint Leaves
Begin by gently heating the heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the fresh mint leaves to the warm cream just before it reaches a simmer, making sure not to let it boil. This careful warming releases the vibrant oils and aroma from the mint without overpowering the cream.
Step 2: Steep to Infuse Flavor
Once removed from heat, let the mint steep in the cream for 15 to 20 minutes. This slow infusion is key to capturing the delicate herbal notes that will transform your whipped cream into something truly special.
Step 3: Strain and Chill the Cream
Strain the mint leaves out of the cream using a fine mesh sieve. This keeps the cream smooth and silky while preserving the infused flavor. Place the mint-infused cream in the refrigerator to chill for at least an hour, allowing it to thicken slightly and get cold enough for whipping.
Step 4: Whip the Cream with Sugar and Vanilla
Once chilled, combine the cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then whip it until soft peaks form. You want the cream fluffy yet stable enough to hold its shape when layered over the strawberries.
Step 5: Prepare the Strawberries
While the cream chills, hull and halve the fresh strawberries. Arrange these on your serving plates or bowls to showcase their bright color and juicy texture.
Step 6: Dress Strawberries with Mint-Infused Cream
Spoon or pipe the whipped mint cream over the strawberries generously. This not only adds amazing flavor but also creates a lovely visual contrast between the red berries and the pale green-tinged cream.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish by adding fresh mint sprigs on top for visual appeal and an extra burst of mint aroma. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshness and the perfect textures together.
How to Serve Strawberries with Mint-Infused Cream Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh mint sprigs are the classic garnish, adding an extra touch of elegance and a lovely fragrance. You can also sprinkle a few finely chopped mint leaves for subtle texture or a dusting of powdered sugar to catch the eye.
Side Dishes
This treat shines brightest when served on its own as a light dessert, but pairing it with crunchy biscotti or buttery shortbread cookies offers a wonderful contrast of texture. A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside adds an indulgent creamy layer that complements the mint-infused topping perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, try serving the strawberries and cream in pretty glass cups or mason jars for individual portions. Alternatively, layer the mint-infused cream between strawberries in a parfait style to create a visually stunning presentation that’s sure to impress everyone.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, cover the strawberries and cream in an airtight container and refrigerate. The strawberries may release some juice, which softens their texture over time. It’s best enjoyed within 1 to 2 days for maximum freshness.
Freezing
This dish does not freeze well because the whipped cream can separate and the strawberries become mushy after thawing. Enjoy it fresh for the best taste and texture.
Reheating
No reheating is necessary or recommended for this dessert as it is best served cold and fresh. The mint-infused cream maintains its flavor and texture when chilled but will deteriorate if warmed.
FAQs
Can I use dried mint instead of fresh mint leaves?
While fresh mint is ideal for its vibrant flavor and fragrance, a small amount of dried mint can be used in a pinch. Just reduce the quantity since dried herbs are more concentrated, and steep it gently to avoid bitterness.
How long can I keep the mint-infused cream in the fridge before whipping it?
You can steep the mint in the warm cream and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before whipping. This allows the flavors to deepen but avoid much longer to keep the cream fresh and safe to consume.
Is there a non-dairy alternative for this recipe?
Yes, you can use coconut cream or other whipping plant-based creams for a dairy-free version. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor will differ slightly, but the mint infusion will still add a refreshing twist.
Can I substitute strawberries with other fruits?
Absolutely! Raspberries, blueberries, or sliced peaches also work wonderfully with mint-infused cream. Choose fruits that are juicy and mildly sweet to complement the cream.
What is the best way to hull strawberries quickly?
A handy trick is to use a straw pushed through the bottom of the berry to pop out the hull. It’s fast, easy, and prevents wasting too much of the berry.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberries with Mint-Infused Cream Recipe is one of those simple yet unforgettable desserts that feels like a little celebration in every bite. The freshness of the strawberries paired with the subtle aromatic cream creates a flavor that’s both refreshing and indulgent. I encourage you to try making it at home and share it with friends and family — it’s bound to become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection.
Print
Strawberries with Mint-Infused Cream Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and elegant dessert featuring fresh strawberries paired with a luscious mint-infused whipped cream. This recipe emphasizes gentle infusion of fresh mint into heavy cream, creating a fragrant and creamy topping that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of strawberries. Ideal for a light summer dessert or an impressive treat for guests.
Ingredients
Strawberries
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
Mint-Infused Cream
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 5–6 fresh mint leaves
- Optional: fresh mint sprigs for garnish
Instructions
- Warm the Cream and Infuse Mint: In a small saucepan, gently warm the heavy cream with the fresh mint leaves over low heat until it is just about to simmer, taking care not to let it boil. This helps to release the mint’s flavor into the cream without curdling it.
- Steep the Mint: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mint leaves steep in the warm cream for 15-20 minutes. This resting time allows the cream to absorb the mint’s essence fully.
- Strain and Chill Cream: Strain the cream through a fine mesh sieve to remove the mint leaves, ensuring a smooth texture. Then, place the mint-infused cream in the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour, which is essential for whipping.
- Whip the Cream: Once the cream is chilled, whip it in a mixing bowl along with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This creates a light and fluffy whipped cream with a refreshing mint flavor.
- Prepare the Strawberries: Arrange the hulled and halved strawberries evenly in serving bowls or on plates to serve as the base for the dessert.
- Add the Mint-Infused Whipped Cream: Spoon or pipe the whipped cream generously over the strawberries, adding both flavor and texture to the dish.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally garnish with fresh mint sprigs for an attractive finish, then serve immediately to enjoy the creamy and fruity combination at its best.
Notes
- Do not boil the cream when warming it with the mint to prevent curdling and preserve a delicate flavor.
- Chilling the cream thoroughly before whipping is crucial for forming soft peaks.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best natural sweetness and texture.
- This dessert is best served immediately after assembly to maintain the cream’s lightness and freshness.
- You can adjust sweetness by adding more or less powdered sugar according to taste.
