Description
A classic British dessert featuring layers of crisp meringue, fresh macerated strawberries, and fluffy whipped cream. This Fresh and Delicious Eton Mess is simple to make, refreshingly light, and perfect for serving at summer gatherings or as a delightful treat any time of the year.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruit
- 500 grams Fresh Strawberries (Ripe and firm, sliced into halves or quarters)
Meringue
- 4-6 pieces Meringue Nests (Store-bought or homemade, crisp on the outside)
Dairy
- 300 milliliters Heavy Cream (Well-chilled for whipping)
Sweeteners & Flavorings
- 2 tablespoons Powdered Sugar (To sweeten the whipped cream)
- 0.5 pieces Vanilla Bean (optional, for added flavor, scrape out seeds)
Instructions
- Prepare Strawberries: Rinse the strawberries thoroughly and slice them into halves or quarters. Place the sliced strawberries in a mixing bowl.
- Macerate Strawberries: Add one tablespoon of powdered sugar to the strawberries and toss gently to coat. Let them sit for 15-20 minutes to release their natural juices and enhance sweetness.
- Whip Cream: Pour the well-chilled heavy cream into a large mixing bowl and whip on medium speed until it begins to thicken.
- Sweeten and Achieve Soft Peaks: Gradually add the remaining tablespoon of powdered sugar to the cream while whipping until soft peaks form, meaning the cream holds shape but is still smooth and creamy.
- Add Vanilla Flavor: If using, fold the scraped vanilla bean seeds gently into the whipped cream to evenly distribute the flavor.
- Break Meringue: Carefully break the meringue nests into large chunks, maintaining some texture and crunch.
- Layer Ingredients: In a serving dish, start layering by placing some meringue pieces at the bottom, followed by a layer of whipped cream, then add a layer of the macerated strawberries.
- Repeat Layers: Continue layering meringue, whipped cream, and strawberries until all ingredients are used, finishing with a top layer of strawberries for an attractive presentation.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the Eton Mess immediately to enjoy the best texture combinations of crisp meringue, creamy whipped cream, and juicy strawberries.
Notes
- For a lighter version, you can use whipped coconut cream as a dairy-free alternative.
- Ensure the heavy cream is well chilled before whipping to achieve better volume and texture.
- Store-bought meringue nests save time, but homemade meringue adds a personal touch.
- The dessert is best served immediately; meringue can become soggy if left to sit for too long.
- Variations can include adding other berries like raspberries or blueberries for different flavors.
