Deviled Strawberries
Deviled Strawberries are a delightful twist on traditional stuffed treats, combining the sweetness of fresh strawberries with a creamy, decadent filling that’s perfect for any occasion. This easy recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser, ideal for summer gatherings, festive celebrations, or simply a delicious snack at home. The vibrant red of the strawberries, combined with the fluffiness of the cream cheese filling, creates a visual feast that is as enjoyable to look at as it is to eat. With a step-by-step approach, you’ll have these delectable bites ready to serve in no time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the best features of Deviled Strawberries is how straightforward and quick they are to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients. Perfect for families, this recipe invites children to join in the fun of preparing their sweet treats. With its minimal prep time and the ease of assembly, you can whip up a batch to impress guests or simply indulge your sweet tooth without hassle. Plus, the blend of flavors in these strawberries is sure to satisfy your craving for something both fruity and creamy, making it an irresistible addition to any dessert table.
Ingredients for Deviled Strawberries
- Fresh strawberries: The star of the show, bursting with juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
- Cream cheese (softened): Adds a rich, creamy texture and tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the strawberries.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling to perfection, making each bite delightfully sugary.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, aromatic essence that enhances the overall flavor.
- Cinnamon (optional): For those who enjoy a hint of spice, a dash of cinnamon can elevate the flavors to another level.
Step-by-Step Directions
Rinse the strawberries: Start by gently rinsing the strawberries under cool water, then pat them dry with a clean towel. Ensure they are free from dirt to showcase their natural beauty.
Prepare the strawberries: With a sharp knife, remove the leafy tops of each strawberry to create a flat base. Then, carefully hollow out the insides using a small spoon or melon baller, making sure not to pierce through the bottom.
Make the cream cheese filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a dash of cinnamon. Beat the mixture with a hand mixer or whisk until it’s smooth and creamy.
Fill the strawberries: Using a piping bag or a small spoon, fill each hollowed strawberry with the luscious cream cheese mixture. Be generous; the more filling, the better!
Chill the strawberries: Place the filled strawberries in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This not only helps to set the filling but also enhances the flavors.
Serve and enjoy: Once chilled, serve the Deviled Strawberries garnished with fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of extra powdered sugar to make them even more appealing.
Tips & Tricks
To elevate your Deviled Strawberries, consider these insider tips:
- Chill before serving: This gives the filling a firmer texture, making them easier to eat.
- Experiment with flavors: For a fun twist, try adding different flavor extracts like almond or lemon to the cream cheese filling.
- Presentation matters: Arrange the strawberries on a platter with fresh mint or edible flowers for a stunning display.
- Mix in other ingredients: Chopped nuts or chocolate chips can add a delightful crunch to the filling if desired.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Deviled Strawberries can be enjoyed on their own, but serving them with complementary dishes can enhance the overall experience. Pair these sweet bites with a refreshing fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert trio. For a touch of elegance, serve them on a beautifully arranged cheese board with assorted cheeses, crackers, and dried fruits.
Nutritional Information
Each Deviled Strawberry is a delightful treat, and while it’s difficult to calculate an exact nutritional profile due to size variations, a ballpark estimate is that one filled strawberry contains around 50 calories. These little bites are also a source of vitamin C from the strawberries, combined with the satiating goodness of the cream cheese. Enjoy these without guilt, knowing they’re a tasty indulgence!
Storing Tips & Variations for Deviled Strawberries
To keep your Deviled Strawberries fresh and delicious, store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re preparing them in advance, consider filling the strawberries just before serving to maintain their crispness. You can also make the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge. For healthier swaps, consider using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese, which adds a lighter texture and extra protein. Creative variations could include swapping strawberries for other berries like raspberries or blackberries, using flavored cream cheese, or incorporating fresh herbs like basil for a bit of an aromatic twist.
Conclusion for Deviled Strawberries
Deviled Strawberries are not just a delightful treat for the eyes but also a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist. This easy-to-make recipe will become a favorite in your household, whether for parties, picnics, or a special dessert to share with loved ones. Don’t wait—grab some fresh strawberries and whip up this deliciously fun treat today!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
While fresh strawberries yield the best results, if frozen strawberries are all you have, allow them to thaw completely and make sure they are completely dry before hollowing them out.
2. How long will Deviled Strawberries last?
These sweet treats are best enjoyed within 1-2 days, but if stored properly in the refrigerator, they can last for up to three days.
3. Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cream cheese filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just fill the strawberries just before serving.
4. What other flavors can I add to the filling?
Feel free to experiment! Adding cocoa powder, citrus zest, or chocolate chips can create exciting flavor profiles to suit your taste.
5. Are there any gluten-free options for this recipe?
Yes! All the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and delicious treat for those following a gluten-free diet.
PrintDeviled Strawberries
A delightful twist on traditional stuffed treats, these Deviled Strawberries combine the sweetness of fresh strawberries with a creamy, decadent filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Fresh strawberries
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse the strawberries under cool water and pat dry.
- Remove the leafy tops and hollow out the insides with a small spoon or melon baller.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Optional: add a dash of cinnamon. Beat until smooth and creamy.
- Fill each hollowed strawberry with the cream cheese mixture using a piping bag or small spoon.
- Chill the filled strawberries in the refrigerator for at least an hour.
- Serve garnished with fresh mint leaves or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Notes
Chill before serving for firmer texture. Experiment with flavors and presentation for an elevated treat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 strawberry
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
