Deviled Strawberries
Try filling your deviled egg platter with juicy strawberries! This yummy dessert combines fresh berries with a creamy cheesecake filling. Deviled Strawberries are delightful for any occasion, from parties to family gatherings or even as a sweet treat after dinner. Their vibrant colors and whipped cream cheese filling make them an attractive and tasty option.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this fun dessert in under 20 minutes.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet strawberries and rich cream cheese is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a picnic, birthday party, or holiday gathering, these strawberries will impress your guests.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: Kids love the colorful sprinkles and can even help with the preparation!
- Versatile Presentation: Serve them on a deviled egg platter or individual dessert cups for a charming display.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Deviled Strawberries, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure a smooth process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Sharp paring knife
- Small spoon or melon baller
- Medium or large mixing bowl
- Piping bag (or large ziplock bag)
- Deviled egg platter (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Sharp paring knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts and makes it easier to score the strawberries without damaging them.
- Mixing bowl: A medium or large mixing bowl provides enough space for blending ingredients smoothly without spilling.
- Piping bag: Using a piping bag allows for precise filling of the strawberries, giving them an elegant look.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 12 strawberries (medium to large in size)
– 12 oz whipped cream cheese
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tsp lemon zest
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 tbsp graham cracker crumbs
– 1 tbsp sprinkles
How to Make Deviled Strawberries
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
- Wash and dry the strawberries. Use a sharp paring knife to slice them in half, lengthwise. I like to leave the stems attached.
- Again use the same paring knife to score or lightly cut a triangle shape in the center of each strawberry.
- Then use a small spoon or small melon baller to gently remove a bit of the middle from the strawberry – to make room for the filling.
- Drain the prepared strawberries, cut side down, on paper towels for a couple of minutes.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In a medium or large bowl, stir together the whipped cream cheese, powdered sugar, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until very smooth.
- Add the cream cheese mixture to a piping bag fitted with a large piping tip. Alternatively, you could put it in a large ziplock bag and cut a small piece off the corner.
Step 3: Fill and Garnish
- Pipe the filling into the center of each prepared strawberry.
- Garnish each deviled strawberry with graham cracker crumbs and sprinkles. Serve immediately.
Enjoy your delicious Deviled Strawberries!
How to Serve Deviled Strawberries
Deviled strawberries are a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a sweet treat after dinner, these strawberries are sure to impress. Here are some creative serving suggestions.
For Parties
- Arrange deviled strawberries on a decorative platter to create an eye-catching centerpiece.
- Pair them with a selection of fresh fruits for a colorful fruit display.
As a Snack
- Serve deviled strawberries alongside a bowl of yogurt for an easy and healthy snack option.
- Pack them in lunchboxes for a sweet surprise during the day.
At Picnics
- Place deviled strawberries in individual cups for easy handling at outdoor gatherings.
- Combine them with other finger foods like cheese cubes and nuts for a balanced picnic spread.
How to Perfect Deviled Strawberries
To make your deviled strawberries truly stand out, consider these helpful tips. With just a few adjustments, you can elevate this dessert even further.
- Choose ripe strawberries: Select medium to large strawberries that are bright red and firm; this ensures the best flavor and texture.
- Use room temperature cream cheese: Let the cream cheese sit out for about 30 minutes before mixing. This helps achieve a smoother filling.
- Experiment with flavors: Consider adding different extracts like almond or coconut for unique taste variations in the filling.
- Chill before serving: Refrigerate the filled strawberries for about 30 minutes before serving. This enhances the flavor and makes them refreshing.
- Make ahead of time: Prepare the filling in advance and fill the strawberries just before serving to keep them looking fresh.
Best Side Dishes for Deviled Strawberries
Deviled strawberries pair well with a variety of side dishes that complement their sweetness. Here are some options to consider:
- Cheese Platter: A mix of cheeses such as brie, cheddar, and gouda enhances flavors and adds richness to your dessert spread.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with melons, grapes, and citrus balances the sweetness of the deviled strawberries.
- Mini Quiches: Savory mini quiches provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness, making for an enjoyable meal combination.
- Puffed Pastry Bites: These flaky pastries filled with cream cheese or vegetables offer texture diversity alongside your strawberries.
- Veggie Sticks with Dip: Crunchy carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers served with hummus or ranch dip add freshness and balance.
- Chocolate Fondue: Create an interactive dessert experience by pairing strawberries with warm chocolate fondue for dipping excitement.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your deviled strawberries turn out perfectly, here are some common mistakes to watch for.
- Using overripe strawberries: Overripe berries can be mushy and difficult to fill. Choose firm, medium to large strawberries for the best texture.
- Not draining the strawberries: Failing to drain your filled strawberries can lead to a soggy dessert. Always place them cut side down on paper towels for a few minutes.
- Skipping the zest: Lemon zest adds brightness and flavor. Don’t skip it; it enhances the overall taste of your filling.
- Overmixing the filling: Overmixing can lead to a runny consistency. Mix just until combined for a creamy, thick filling that holds its shape.
- Ignoring presentation: A beautiful garnish makes a big difference. Use graham cracker crumbs and sprinkles for an appealing finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Keep strawberries away from moisture to maintain their freshness.
Freezing Deviled Strawberries
- Not recommended, as freezing can change the texture of the strawberries.
- If you must freeze, try filling them with your cream cheese mixture only before freezing.
Reheating Deviled Strawberries
- Oven: Not recommended as it may alter texture and taste.
- Microwave: Can be used briefly if needed; heat in short intervals to avoid melting the filling.
- Stovetop: Avoid reheating on stovetop since this dish is best served cold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about deviled strawberries.
What are Deviled Strawberries?
Deviled strawberries are fresh strawberries filled with a creamy cheesecake-like mixture, making them a delightful dessert option.
How do I make Deviled Strawberries?
To make deviled strawberries, prepare fresh strawberries by cutting them in half and filling them with a whipped cream cheese mixture flavored with lemon and vanilla.
Can I customize my Deviled Strawberries?
Absolutely! You can add different flavors to the filling or top them with nuts or fruits based on your preferences.
How long do Deviled Strawberries last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, deviled strawberries will last up to 2 days, but they are best enjoyed fresh.
Are Deviled Strawberries suitable for parties?
Yes! They make an attractive and delicious dessert option perfect for gatherings and celebrations.
Final Thoughts
Deviled strawberries offer a fun twist on traditional desserts with their creamy filling and vibrant appearance. They’re not only simple to prepare but also versatile, allowing you to customize flavors as you like. Try making these delightful treats for your next gathering or simply as a sweet snack!
Deviled Strawberries
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful sweetness of Deviled Strawberries, a fun and visually appealing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. These charming treats feature fresh strawberries filled with a creamy cheesecake-like mixture, combining the luscious flavors of whipped cream cheese, lemon zest, and vanilla. Ideal for parties, picnics, or as a sweet snack after dinner, these colorful bites are sure to impress your guests. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delightful treats in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients
- 12 medium to large strawberries
- 12 oz whipped cream cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp graham cracker crumbs
- 1 tbsp sprinkles
Instructions
- Wash and dry the strawberries. Slice them in half lengthwise while keeping the stems attached.
- Use a paring knife to score a triangle shape in the center of each strawberry, then carefully scoop out some flesh with a small spoon or melon baller.
- In a mixing bowl, combine whipped cream cheese, powdered sugar, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Transfer the filling to a piping bag or ziplock bag with one corner cut off.
- Pipe the filling into each strawberry half and sprinkle with graham cracker crumbs and sprinkles.
- Serve immediately for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed strawberry
- Calories: 65
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
