If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines freshness, creaminess, and just a hint of sweetness, look no further than this Deviled Strawberries Recipe. This fun twist on classic deviled appetizers transforms plump, juicy strawberries into bite-sized delights filled with a luscious cream cheese and whipped cream filling. Perfect for parties, brunches, or a sweet snack, this recipe brings a burst of color and flavor that both kids and adults will adore. Get ready to impress your guests with a dish that’s as pretty as it is tasty!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Deviled Strawberries Recipe plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the freshness of the strawberries to the richness of the cream cheese and the subtle tang of lemon juice, everything works harmoniously for an unforgettable bite.
- Large strawberries: Choose firm and ripe strawberries to ensure a juicy and sweet base that holds the filling well.
- Heavy whipping cream: Whipped to stiff peaks, this adds a light, airy texture that perfectly complements the creamy filling.
- Cream cheese (softened): The rich and smooth component that brings depth and a slight tang to the filling.
- Sour cream: Adds a subtle tang and creaminess that balances the sweetness.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling, harmonizing with the natural fruit sweetness.
- Vanilla extract: Provides a warm, aromatic note that enhances all other flavors.
- Fresh lemon juice (optional): A splash brightens the filling and adds a refreshing zing.
- Crushed graham crackers: Sprinkled on top for a delightful crunch and a hint of buttery flavor.
How to Make Deviled Strawberries Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Start by rinsing your strawberries and drying them gently. Cut off the stems and slice each berry in half lengthwise. Using a small melon baller, scoop out a little bit from the center, creating a small cavity perfect for holding the luscious filling.
Step 2: Whip the Heavy Cream
Pour your cold heavy whipping cream into a chilled bowl and whip it using a hand mixer or stand mixer until stiff peaks form. This means when you lift your beaters, the cream should hold a firm peak without collapsing. The whipped cream adds a fluffy, light consistency to the filling.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice if you’re using it. Mix until the texture is completely smooth and creamy. This step is essential for achieving that rich, tangy flavor that’s so irresistible.
Step 4: Combine the Mixtures
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture with a spatula. Folding ensures you retain the airy texture of the whipped cream without deflating it, resulting in a light yet decadently creamy filling.
Step 5: Fill the Strawberries
Transfer the filling into a piping bag or zip-top bag with the tip cut off for easy filling. Carefully pipe the cream cheese mixture into each hollowed strawberry half, filling them generously so they look inviting and delicious.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touch
Sprinkle crushed graham crackers over the tops of the filled strawberries. This provides a wonderful crunch along with a subtle buttery flavor that elevates the whole experience. Serve immediately for the freshest taste and texture.
How to Serve Deviled Strawberries Recipe
Garnishes
While the graham cracker crumbs add great texture, feel free to get creative! A light dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of melted dark chocolate, or even a small fresh mint leaf on top can make these deviled strawberries stand out at any gathering.
Side Dishes
Deviled strawberries pair wonderfully with a crisp glass of sparkling wine or a refreshing iced tea. For a brunch spread, consider serving them alongside light finger sandwiches or a cheese platter to balance sweetness and savory bites.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving this Deviled Strawberries Recipe on a beautiful tray with fresh greenery or edible flowers can brighten up your table presentation. You can also arrange them on cupcake liners or colorful small plates for easy, individual portions that look as delightful as they taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, place the filled strawberries in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep the crushed graham crackers separate to maintain their crunch, sprinkling right before serving again.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this recipe because the texture of both the strawberries and the creamy filling changes drastically once thawed, resulting in soggy berries and a grainy filling.
Reheating
Since this is a cold, no-bake dessert, reheating is unnecessary. Serve chilled to enjoy the perfect texture and refreshing taste every time.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this Deviled Strawberries Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh strawberries since frozen ones hold extra moisture and tend to become mushy when thawed, which would affect the texture and presentation of the dish.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream cheese and heavy cream?
You can experiment with dairy-free cream cheese and coconut whipped cream, but keep in mind the flavor and texture may vary slightly from the original recipe.
Can I make the filling in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cream cheese filling a few hours ahead and keep it refrigerated. Just fold in the whipped cream and fill the strawberries right before serving to keep them fresh and fluffy.
What other toppings work well besides graham crackers?
Chopped nuts, toasted coconut flakes, or a sprinkle of cinnamon can add interesting twists and textures to the filling.
Can this recipe be doubled for larger crowds?
Definitely! This recipe scales up easily. Just be sure to keep the proportions consistent and work in batches if needed to maintain the best texture and appearance.
Final Thoughts
The Deviled Strawberries Recipe is a delightful way to reinvent a classic snack into something fresh and fun. It’s simple enough to whip up on a whim but impressive enough to bring to any party or family gathering. Give this recipe a try and discover how these little strawberries filled with creamy goodness can become your new favorite treat!
Print
Deviled Strawberries Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Deviled Strawberries are a delightful and elegant no-bake dessert featuring fresh strawberries filled with a luscious cream cheese and whipped cream mixture, topped with crunchy crushed graham crackers. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for parties, gatherings, or a sweet snack that combines fresh fruit with creamy sweetness and a crunchy finish.
Ingredients
Strawberries
- 18–24 large strawberries
Filling
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional)
Topping
- 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers
Instructions
- Prepare the Strawberries: Cut off the stems from each strawberry and slice them in half vertically. Using a melon baller or small spoon, carefully scoop out a small portion from the center of each strawberry half to create a cavity for the filling.
- Whip the Cream: In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form, meaning the cream holds firm peaks when the beaters are lifted.
- Make the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice (if using) until the mixture is smooth and creamy without lumps.
- Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, carefully mixing until fully incorporated and light and fluffy.
- Fill the Strawberries: Use a piping bag or small spoon to pipe or spoon the cream cheese filling into the hollowed-out centers of each strawberry half, filling them generously but neatly.
- Add Topping and Serve: Sprinkle the filled strawberries with crushed graham crackers for a crunchy texture contrast. Serve the deviled strawberries immediately to maintain freshness and prevent the filling from softening the strawberries.
Notes
- For best results, chill the whipped cream bowl and beaters before whipping to achieve stiffer peaks.
- If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the sugar slightly or use a sugar substitute.
- Optionally, add lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture to add a slight tang and balance the sweetness.
- This recipe is best served the same day to prevent strawberries from releasing excess juice which can soften the filling.
- For variety, consider topping with crushed nuts or shredded coconut instead of graham crackers.
