Fresas con Crema: The Authentic Mexican Dessert Recipe

Fresas con Crema, or Strawberries and Cream, is a dessert that whispers of warm summer evenings and the simple joys of life. Imagine plump, juicy strawberries, glistening with a light, sweet glaze, nestled in a cloud of luxuriously rich cream. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that dances on your tongue, and I’m thrilled to share my version of this classic treat with you!

This delightful dessert isn’t just a recent invention; its roots run deep within Mexican culinary tradition. While the exact origins are debated, Fresas con Crema has been enjoyed for generations, often appearing at family gatherings, festive celebrations, and as a comforting treat on any ordinary day. It represents a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients and the art of creating something extraordinary from the simplest of components.

What makes this dish so universally loved? It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, the creamy smoothness against the slight bite of the strawberries. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, making it a go-to dessert for busy weeknights or impromptu get-togethers. Plus, who can resist the allure of fresh strawberries bathed in a luscious cream sauce? Get ready to experience a taste of pure bliss with this easy and delicious recipe!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 cup Mexican crema (or sour cream, see notes)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar, plus more to taste
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: 1 tablespoon orange liqueur (such as Grand Marnier or Cointreau)
• Optional: Chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds) for garnish
• Optional: Shredded coconut for garnish

Preparing the Strawberries:

1. Wash and Hull the Strawberries: The first thing we need to do is give our strawberries a good wash. Gently rinse them under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, using a paring knife or a strawberry huller, carefully remove the green tops (hulls) from each strawberry. Try not to remove too much of the strawberry flesh.
2. Slice the Strawberries: Now, let’s slice those beautiful red berries! I like to slice them about 1/4 inch thick, but you can adjust the thickness to your preference. Thicker slices will give you a chunkier texture, while thinner slices will be more delicate. Place the sliced strawberries in a medium-sized bowl.
3. Sweeten the Strawberries (Optional): This step is optional, but I highly recommend it! Sprinkle about 1-2 tablespoons of granulated sugar over the sliced strawberries. The sugar will help to draw out the natural juices of the strawberries, creating a delicious syrup. Gently toss the strawberries with the sugar to coat them evenly. Let the strawberries sit for about 15-20 minutes at room temperature. This process is called maceration, and it really enhances the flavor of the strawberries. You’ll notice they become more juicy and flavorful as they sit.
4. Add Orange Liqueur (Optional): If you’re feeling a little fancy, you can add a tablespoon of orange liqueur to the strawberries. This will add a subtle citrusy note that complements the sweetness of the strawberries perfectly. Grand Marnier or Cointreau are excellent choices. Gently stir the liqueur into the strawberries.

Preparing the Crema:

1. Combine Crema and Heavy Cream: In a separate bowl, we’re going to prepare the creamy component of our Fresas con Crema. Add the Mexican crema (or sour cream) and heavy cream to a medium-sized bowl.
2. Add Sugar and Vanilla: Now, add the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the bowl. The salt might seem counterintuitive, but it actually helps to enhance the sweetness of the dish.
3. Whisk Until Smooth: Using a whisk, gently whisk the ingredients together until they are smooth and well combined. Be careful not to over-whisk, as this can cause the crema to become too thick. We want a nice, creamy consistency that is easy to pour.
4. Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Taste the crema mixture and adjust the sweetness to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter crema, add a little more granulated sugar, a teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired sweetness level.
5. Chill the Crema (Optional): For the best results, I recommend chilling the crema mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the crema to thicken slightly. However, if you’re short on time, you can skip this step.

Assembling the Fresas con Crema:

1. Layer Strawberries and Crema: Now comes the fun part – assembling our Fresas con Crema! You can assemble it in individual serving cups or in a large bowl. I like to use clear glass cups so you can see the beautiful layers of strawberries and crema.
2. Start with a Layer of Strawberries: Begin by placing a layer of sliced strawberries at the bottom of each cup or bowl.
3. Add a Layer of Crema: Next, pour a generous spoonful of the prepared crema over the strawberries.
4. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers of strawberries and crema until you reach the top of the cup or bowl.
5. Garnish (Optional): If you want to add a little extra flair, you can garnish the Fresas con Crema with chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds) and/or shredded coconut. These garnishes add a nice textural contrast and a touch of flavor.
6. Chill Before Serving (Optional): For the best flavor and texture, I recommend chilling the assembled Fresas con Crema in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the crema to firm up slightly.
7. Serve and Enjoy!: Finally, it’s time to serve and enjoy your homemade Fresas con Crema! This dessert is best enjoyed fresh, so don’t wait too long to dig in. The combination of sweet strawberries and creamy crema is simply irresistible.

Tips and Variations:

• Type of Crema: Authentic Fresas con Crema is made with Mexican crema, which is similar to sour cream but has a slightly thinner consistency and a tangier flavor. If you can’t find Mexican crema, you can substitute sour cream. However, you may want to add a little bit of milk or heavy cream to thin it out slightly.
• Sweetness Level: The amount of sugar you use will depend on the sweetness of your strawberries and your personal preference. Start with the recommended amount and then adjust to taste.
• Fruit Variations: While Fresas con Crema is traditionally made with strawberries, you can also use other types of fruit, such as raspberries, blueberries, or peaches.
• Spice it Up: For a little kick, add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of chili powder to the crema mixture.
• Make it Vegan: To make this recipe vegan, use a plant-based sour cream alternative and a plant-based heavy cream alternative.
• Add a Crunch: For added texture, sprinkle some crushed graham crackers or granola over the top of the Fresas con Crema.
• Presentation: Get creative with your presentation! You can serve Fresas con Crema in individual parfait glasses, mason jars, or even hollowed-out strawberries.

Make Ahead Instructions:

You can prepare the strawberries and the crema mixture ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the Fresas con Crema as directed.

Storage Instructions:

Fresas con Crema is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind that the strawberries may release some liquid as they sit, so the texture may change slightly.

Serving Suggestions:

Fresas con Crema is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• As a Dessert: Serve Fresas con Crema as a simple and refreshing dessert after a meal.
• As a Snack: Enjoy Fresas con Crema as a mid-afternoon snack or a light evening treat.
• For Brunch: Add Fresas con Crema to your brunch spread for a touch of sweetness.
• At Parties: Serve Fresas con Crema at parties and gatherings as a crowd-pleasing dessert option.
• With Other Desserts: Pair Fresas con Crema with other desserts, such as cake, cookies, or ice cream.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 250-300 per serving
• Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams per serving
• Saturated Fat: Approximately 10-12 grams per serving
• Cholesterol: Approximately 50-60 milligrams per serving
• Sodium: Approximately 50-70 milligrams per serving
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30 grams per serving
• Sugar: Approximately 20-25 grams per serving
• Protein: Approximately 2-3 grams per serving

Why This Recipe Works:

This Fresas con Crema recipe is a winner because it’s incredibly easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers a burst of fresh, sweet, and creamy flavors. The maceration process enhances the natural sweetness of the strawberries, while the combination of Mexican crema and heavy cream creates a luxuriously smooth and tangy sauce. The optional additions of orange liqueur and garn

Conclusion:

This Fresas con Crema recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a vibrant celebration of simple pleasures, a taste of sunshine in every spoonful, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I truly believe you’ll find yourself making this again and again, not just during strawberry season, but whenever you crave a sweet and refreshing treat. The combination of juicy, ripe strawberries and the luxuriously creamy sauce is simply irresistible. It’s the kind of dessert that brings a smile to your face and leaves you feeling completely satisfied.

But what makes this recipe a must-try? It’s the ease of preparation, the readily available ingredients, and the sheer deliciousness of the final product. You don’t need to be a master chef to whip up a batch of this delightful dessert. In just a few minutes, you can transform ordinary strawberries into something extraordinary. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a dessert that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor?

Beyond its simplicity, this Fresas con Crema recipe is incredibly versatile. While I’ve shared my go-to version, feel free to experiment and make it your own. For a richer flavor, try using Mexican crema instead of sour cream. If you prefer a sweeter dessert, add a touch more sweetened condensed milk. You can also incorporate a splash of vanilla extract or a hint of cinnamon for added depth.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Classic Serving: Serve chilled in individual bowls or glasses, garnished with a fresh strawberry and a sprig of mint.
* Elevated Presentation: Layer the strawberries and cream in a parfait glass for a more elegant presentation.
* Party Platter: Arrange the strawberries and cream on a platter alongside other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a stunning dessert spread.
* Frozen Treat: Pour the mixture into popsicle molds and freeze for a refreshing summer treat.
* Breakfast Delight: Top your morning yogurt or oatmeal with a spoonful of Fresas con Crema for a sweet and healthy start to the day.
* Adult Twist: Add a splash of tequila or rum to the cream mixture for a boozy version perfect for parties.
* Crunchy Addition: Sprinkle crushed Maria cookies or granola over the top for added texture.

I’m confident that you’ll absolutely love this recipe. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the sweetness of strawberries and the richness of cream. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dessert, a special occasion, or simply a treat for yourself.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and prepare to be amazed by the incredible flavor of this Fresas con Crema. I can’t wait to hear what you think!

Please, give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out. Share your photos and comments on social media using #FresasConCremaRecipe. I’m eager to see your creations and hear about your personal variations. Happy cooking (and eating)! I hope you enjoy this little taste of heaven as much as I do. Don’t be shy to adjust the sweetness to your liking, and remember, the best recipes are the ones you make your own!