Caramel Cream with Strawberry Chunks – A Luxurious Dessert

A caramel cream with strawberry chunks is the ultimate indulgence for anyone with a sweet tooth. The smooth and velvety caramel is enhanced by the burst of fresh, juicy strawberries, creating a dessert that’s both rich and refreshing. This dessert combines two classic flavors—caramel and strawberries—into one irresistible treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a special treat for your family, or simply craving a dessert that combines decadence and freshness, this caramel cream with strawberry chunks is sure to impress. The creamy caramel base is lightened by the addition of strawberries, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and tang. This dessert is a beautiful way to celebrate fresh fruit in the warmer months while still indulging in the luxurious flavors of caramel.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of making this simple yet elegant dessert, from preparing the ingredients to creating the perfect texture. We’ll also provide tips for customizing the recipe, serving suggestions, and storage advice.

Ingredients

To make this caramel cream with strawberry chunks, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Caramel Cream:

• 1 cup of heavy cream: The base for the creamy caramel texture.
• 1/2 cup of granulated sugar: For making the caramel.
• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter: To enrich the flavor of the caramel.
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: For a hint of vanilla flavor.
• Pinch of salt: To balance the sweetness and enhance the caramel flavor.
• 1 tablespoon of cornstarch: To help thicken the cream.

For the Strawberry Chunks:

• 1 1/2 cups of fresh strawberries: Ripe, juicy strawberries are key for this recipe. Make sure to wash and hull them.
• 1 tablespoon of sugar: To macerate the strawberries and bring out their natural sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon of lemon juice: To enhance the flavor of the strawberries and prevent browning.

Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan: For making the caramel and cream mixture.
• Whisk: For stirring the caramel and cream mixture.
• Mixing bowl: For preparing the strawberries.
• Knife: For chopping the strawberries into chunks.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
• Serving glasses or bowls: To present the dessert.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Cream

1. Make the Caramel: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the granulated sugar. Stir occasionally until the sugar melts and turns into a golden-brown caramel. Be careful not to burn it.
2. Add the Cream: Once the sugar is melted, slowly add the heavy cream to the caramel. The mixture may bubble up, so stir carefully. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the caramel is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
3. Add Butter and Flavorings: Stir in the butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue to cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the butter to melt and the mixture to thicken slightly.
4. Thicken the Cream: In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in a little cold water. Gradually whisk the cornstarch mixture into the caramel cream. Cook for an additional minute or until the cream reaches a thickened consistency. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries

1. Prepare the Strawberries: Wash and hull the strawberries, then chop them into small chunks.
2. Macerate the Strawberries: Place the chopped strawberries in a mixing bowl and sprinkle them with the sugar and lemon juice. Stir to combine and allow the strawberries to sit for about 10-15 minutes to release their natural juices.

Step 3: Combine the Caramel Cream and Strawberries

1. Assemble the Dessert: Spoon the slightly cooled caramel cream into serving glasses or bowls, filling them about halfway.
2. Add the Strawberries: Gently spoon the macerated strawberries and their juices over the caramel cream, ensuring that the chunks are evenly distributed throughout.
3. Chill the Dessert: Place the assembled dessert in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the cream to set.

Tips for Perfect Caramel Cream with Strawberry Chunks

1. Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries are key for this recipe. They provide the best flavor and texture, adding a natural sweetness to balance the richness of the caramel.
2. Don’t Overcook the Caramel: When making caramel, it’s important to watch it closely. If it becomes too dark, it can turn bitter, so be sure to remove it from the heat as soon as it reaches a golden-brown color.
3. Adjust the Sweetness: Depending on your preference, you can adjust the sweetness of the caramel and the strawberries. If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the amount of sugar in both the caramel and the strawberry mixture.
4. Make Ahead: This dessert can be made in advance. After assembling, simply cover the bowls and refrigerate them until ready to serve. It will keep for up to 2-3 days in the fridge.
5. Add a Garnish: For an extra touch, garnish the top of each dessert with a sprig of fresh mint or a few extra strawberry slices.

Creative Ways to Enjoy Caramel Cream with Strawberry Chunks

1. Serve with Other Fruits: If you want to mix up the flavor, try adding other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or peaches. The sweet, tart fruits pair wonderfully with the rich caramel cream.
2. Turn It into a Parfait: Layer the caramel cream and strawberry chunks in a clear glass to create a beautiful parfait. Add granola or crushed cookies between the layers for added crunch.
3. Pair with Biscotti or Shortbread: Serve this dessert with a crunchy biscuit or shortbread cookie on the side for a perfect balance of textures.
4. Add a Caramel Drizzle: For extra decadence, drizzle some warm caramel sauce over the top before serving.

Conclusion

This caramel cream with strawberry chunks is a luscious dessert that combines the rich, velvety texture of caramel with the fresh, juicy taste of strawberries. It’s perfect for special occasions, family dinners, or whenever you’re in the mood for something indulgent yet easy to make. Whether you serve it as a simple treat or get creative with toppings and additions, this dessert is sure to delight anyone who tries it. Enjoy this sweet and creamy combination, and don’t forget to share it with your loved ones!