What Can I Bake With Fresh Strawberries

Strawberries are a versatile fruit that can be used in various ways, including baking. If you have fresh strawberries, there are many different treats you can make with them.

Fresh Strawberries
Fresh Strawberries

Strawberry Shortcake

Strawberry shortcake is a classic dessert that is perfect for showcasing fresh strawberries. To make this delicious treat, you’ll need:

  • 2 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup of sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
  • 2/3 cup of heavy cream
  • 2 cups of fresh strawberries, sliced
  • Whipped cream, for serving

To make the shortcake, start by preheating your oven to 375°F. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Add the heavy cream and stir until the dough comes together. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently until it forms a smooth ball.

Roll the dough out to 1/2 inch thickness and cut it into circles using a biscuit cutter or a drinking glass. Place the circles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

To assemble the shortcake, split the biscuits in half and top each half with a spoonful of sliced strawberries and whipped cream.

3. Strawberry Tart

If you’re looking for an elegant dessert to impress your guests, a strawberry tart is the perfect choice. To make this delicious treat, you’ll need:

  • 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup of sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 2 tablespoons of cold water
  • 2 cups of fresh strawberries, sliced
  • 1/4 cup of strawberry jam
  • Powdered sugar, for serving

To make the tart crust, start by combining the flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and cold water. Add the egg mixture to the flour mixture and stir until the dough comes together. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently until it forms a smooth ball.

Roll the dough out to 1/4 inch thickness and transfer it to a 9-inch tart pan. Press the dough into the bottom and sides of the pan and trim any excess dough.

Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork and chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake the crust for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.

While the crust is baking, prepare the strawberry filling. In a small saucepan, heat the strawberry jam over low heat until it becomes liquid. Remove from heat and set aside.

When the crust is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Arrange the sliced strawberries in the crust and brush them with the melted strawberry jam.

Chill the tart in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until the jam has set. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

4. Strawberry Cheesecake

Strawberry cheesecake is a decadent dessert that is perfect for special occasions. To make this delicious treat, you’ll need:

  • 1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup of sugar
  • 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 (8-ounce) packages of cream cheese, softened
  • 1 1/4 cups of sugar
  • 4 eggs
  • 1/3 cup of heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
  • 2 cups of fresh strawberries, sliced

To make the crust, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Fold in the sliced strawberries and pour the mixture into the prepared crust.

Bake the cheesecake for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Let the cheesecake cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, or overnight.

5. Strawberry Muffins

Strawberry muffins are a delicious breakfast or snack option that is easy to make. To make this recipe, you’ll need:

  • 2 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons of baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup of sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup of milk
  • 2 cups of fresh strawberries, diced

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease with cooking spray.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, eggs, and milk.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the diced strawberries.

Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup 2/3 full. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.

6. Strawberry Scones

Strawberry scones are a delicious breakfast or brunch option that is perfect for pairing with coffee or tea. To make this recipe, you’ll need:

  • 1/4 cup of sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
  • 2/3 cup of heavy cream
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • 1 cup of fresh strawberries, diced

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the chilled butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.

Fold in the diced strawberries. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a 1-inch thick circle.

Use a sharp knife or biscuit cutter to cut the dough into 8-10 wedges. Place the scones onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones in these recipes?

While fresh strawberries are recommended for these recipes, you can use frozen strawberries as a substitute if you need to. Just be sure to thaw them before using them in your dish.

Can I make these recipes ahead of time?

Yes, many of these recipes can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve them. Check the individual recipe for specific instructions on how to store and reheat the dish.

How do I know if my strawberries are ripe?

Look for strawberries that are bright red, firm, and plump. They should also have a sweet fragrance and be free of any bruises or mold.

Can I use strawberry preserves instead of fresh strawberries in these recipes?

While fresh strawberries are recommended for these recipes, you can use strawberry preserves as a substitute if you need to. Just be aware that the flavor and texture of the dish may be slightly different.

Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour in these recipes?

While almond flour can be used as a substitute for all-purpose flour in some baking recipes, it may not work well in these specific recipes. Stick with all-purpose flour for best results.

Conclusion

Fresh strawberries are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for a refreshing salad, a decadent dessert, or a satisfying breakfast, there are countless ways to incorporate this delicious fruit into your cooking.

I'm Jennifer Tirrell, a self-taught baker, and founder of CakeRe. As an experienced baker and recipe publisher, I have spent over a decade working in the kitchen and have tried and tested countless baking tools and products. From classic cakes to creative twists, I've got you covered. So grab your apron and let's get baking!

Leave a Comment