Few desserts evoke the breezy delight of a sunny afternoon quite like Strawberries with Mint-Infused Cream. This treat brings together the juiciest strawberries and a cool, softly whipped cloud of mint-infused cream, making every spoonful a playful dance of freshness and decadence. The hint of herbal mint elevates the cream from ordinary to extraordinary, adding a sophisticated twist to a classic pairing that feels perfect for casual picnics, elegant dinners, or just a little self-care indulgence when berry season comes alive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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For the Mint-Infused Cream:
- 1 lb fresh strawberries (hulled and halved)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves (loosely packed)
- extra mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How to Make Strawberries with Mint-Infused Cream
Step 1: Infuse the Cream with Mint
Begin this journey by gently heating your heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat. As soon as it starts to send out wisps of steam (but before it boils!), remove it from the heat and stir in the fresh mint leaves. Let this creamy, fragrant mixture sit covered for 20 to 30 minutes, allowing the mint’s natural oils to seep into the cream and fill it with crisp, herbal notes.
Step 2: Strain and Chill the Cream
Once your cream has finished its aromatic spa session with the mint, pour it through a fine mesh strainer to catch all the mint leaves. Don’t rush this — a little patience means none of those tiny leaves sneak into your whipped cream. Transfer the strained cream to the fridge and let it chill completely. This step ensures that your cream will whip up to perfect, soft peaks later.
Step 3: Whip the Mint-Infused Cream
Now it’s time for a little kitchen magic! Pour your thoroughly chilled, minty cream into a mixing bowl. Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, then beat on a medium speed until the cream holds soft peaks. Watch carefully: you want a texture that’s light and pillowy, not stiff. This freshly-whipped mint cream is what takes plain berries into dessert territory.
Step 4: Prep the Strawberries
Hull and halve your fresh strawberries. If you want to add a subtle zing, toss them with a teaspoon of sugar and a splash of lemon juice, then let them sit for about 15 minutes to macerate. This optional trick draws out more juice and accentuates their sweetness, taking your Strawberries with Mint-Infused Cream to the next level.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Divide the strawberries among small bowls or pretty glasses. Dollop the soft mint-infused cream generously over each serving. Finish with a scatter of extra mint leaves for not just a gorgeous look, but a hint of extra aroma every time you take a bite. Serve immediately, and savor each spoonful!
How to Serve Strawberries with Mint-Infused Cream
Garnishes
The right garnish doesn’t just add beauty; it amplifies the fresh, lively spirit of Strawberries with Mint-Infused Cream. Sprinkle on whole or thinly sliced mint leaves, a fine zesting of lemon, or even a few shavings of white chocolate to capture attention and entice your guests to dig in.
Side Dishes
Pair this dessert with crisp, buttery shortbread cookies, almond biscotti, or a delicate meringue for a complete treat. These sides offer a contrasting crunch and extra texture to complement the sweet strawberries and airy, minty cream.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t be afraid to get a little fancy! Serve Strawberries with Mint-Infused Cream in parfait glasses for a bistro-style feel, or layer them between mini pavlovas for special occasions. For a picnic, portion the dessert into individual jars with screw-top lids — they look adorable and travel beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If (and that’s a big if) you have any leftovers, cover and refrigerate the cream and strawberries separately. The cream will stay luscious for up to 24 hours, while strawberries can last 1–2 days, though they are definitely at their best when freshly assembled.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for Strawberries with Mint-Infused Cream, as whipped cream loses its soft texture and strawberries turn mushy once thawed. Enjoy this dessert fresh for the most delightful flavor and presentation.
Reheating
There’s no reheating needed! Simply give the cream a gentle whisk if it’s been refrigerated for a while to restore some volume, and let both the cream and berries come up to cool room temperature for the best taste and texture before serving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
While frozen strawberries can be used in a pinch, they often become too soft and watery once thawed. For the brightest flavor and prettiest appearance, fresh strawberries really make a difference in Strawberries with Mint-Infused Cream.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the heavy cream for well-chilled canned coconut cream, and follow the same mint-infusion and whipping process. The result will be rich, lightly tropical, and just as refreshing.
Can I prepare the mint-infused cream in advance?
Definitely. You can make the mint-infused cream up to a full day before serving. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator, and give it a quick whisk before dolloping over your strawberries.
What other fruits pair well with mint-infused cream?
Mint cream loves to play with other berries like raspberries and blueberries, or even slices of juicy peaches. Mix and match your favorites for a new twist on Strawberries with Mint-Infused Cream every time summer fruit is in season!
How do I keep the whipped cream from deflating?
Make sure your cream is well-chilled before whipping, and stop as soon as you reach soft peaks. Overbeating can cause the cream to separate. If you’re worried about stability, adding a tiny spoonful of powdered sugar helps the whipped cream hold up a little longer.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for an easy, joyful dessert that screams summer freshness, make Strawberries with Mint-Infused Cream your next kitchen adventure. One bite and you’ll see just how a handful of ingredients, a dash of creativity, and a little mint can work magic — I hope you’ll fall in love with this as much as I have!
PrintStrawberries with Mint-Infused Cream Recipe
Indulge in the refreshing combination of fresh strawberries topped with a luscious mint-infused whipped cream. This easy no-bake dessert is perfect for summer gatherings or a sweet treat any time of the year.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Ingredients
For the Mint-Infused Cream:
- 1 lb fresh strawberries (hulled and halved)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves (loosely packed)
- extra mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mint-Infused Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until steaming. Remove from heat, add mint leaves, cover, and steep for 20–30 minutes. Strain out the mint and chill the cream. In a mixing bowl, beat the chilled cream with sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Assemble the Dessert: Spoon the mint-infused whipped cream over fresh strawberries. Garnish with additional mint leaves if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For added flavor, macerate the strawberries in sugar and lemon juice for 15 minutes before serving.
- The cream can be made a day ahead and refrigerated.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup strawberries with cream
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 50mg