The strawberry cream sandwich is a classic dessert that has been a staple in many bakeries and cafes for decades. This sweet treat consists of two soft and fluffy scones or biscuits, filled with a generous helping of strawberry cream and sliced strawberries. In this article, we will take you through a step-by-step guide on how to make the perfect strawberry cream sandwich.
Understanding the Ingredients
Before we dive into the recipe, it’s essential to understand the ingredients that make up this delicious dessert. The strawberry cream sandwich consists of three main components: the scones or biscuits, the strawberry cream, and the sliced strawberries.
The Scones or Biscuits
The scones or biscuits are the foundation of the strawberry cream sandwich. They provide a soft and fluffy base that holds the strawberry cream and sliced strawberries in place. When it comes to choosing the right type of scone or biscuit, there are several options available. You can either use store-bought scones or biscuits or make your own from scratch.
Homemade Scones vs. Store-Bought Scones
While store-bought scones or biscuits can be convenient, making your own from scratch can be a more rewarding experience. Homemade scones or biscuits allow you to control the ingredients and the texture, ensuring that they are soft and fluffy. However, if you’re short on time, store-bought scones or biscuits can be a good alternative.
The Strawberry Cream
The strawberry cream is the star of the show when it comes to the strawberry cream sandwich. It’s a sweet and creamy filling that’s made with fresh strawberries, cream, and sugar. The strawberry cream is what sets the strawberry cream sandwich apart from other desserts, and it’s essential to get it right.
Using Fresh Strawberries
When it comes to making the strawberry cream, it’s essential to use fresh strawberries. Fresh strawberries provide a sweet and intense flavor that’s hard to replicate with frozen or canned strawberries. If you’re using fresh strawberries, make sure to wash and hull them before using.
The Sliced Strawberries
The sliced strawberries are the final component of the strawberry cream sandwich. They add a pop of color and flavor to the dessert, and they’re essential for balancing out the sweetness of the strawberry cream.
Choosing the Right Type of Strawberries
When it comes to choosing the right type of strawberries, there are several options available. You can either use sweet strawberries or tart strawberries, depending on your personal preference. Sweet strawberries provide a sweet and intense flavor, while tart strawberries provide a tangy and refreshing flavor.
Preparing the Ingredients
Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, it’s time to prepare them. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare the ingredients:
Preparing the Scones or Biscuits
If you’re using store-bought scones or biscuits, you can skip this step. However, if you’re making your own from scratch, here’s a simple recipe to follow:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg, beaten
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the cold unsalted butter to the dry ingredients and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and beaten egg.
- Pour the cream mixture over the flour mixture and stir until the dough comes together.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it becomes smooth and pliable.
- Pat the dough into a circle that’s about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick.
- Use a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out the scones or biscuits.
- Place the scones or biscuits on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown.
Preparing the Strawberry Cream
Here’s a simple recipe to make the strawberry cream:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 cups sliced strawberries
- 1 tablespoon strawberry jam or preserves
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until it becomes stiff peaks.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and sliced strawberries.
- Fold the sugar and strawberry mixture into the whipped cream until well combined.
- Stir in the strawberry jam or preserves.
Preparing the Sliced Strawberries
To prepare the sliced strawberries, simply wash and hull them, and then slice them into thin pieces.
Assembling the Strawberry Cream Sandwich
Now that we’ve prepared the ingredients, it’s time to assemble the strawberry cream sandwich. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Splitting the Scones or Biscuits
To assemble the strawberry cream sandwich, you’ll need to split the scones or biscuits in half. You can do this by using a serrated knife to cut them in half horizontally.
Spreading the Strawberry Cream
Once you’ve split the scones or biscuits, it’s time to spread the strawberry cream. Take a generous helping of the strawberry cream and spread it onto the bottom half of the scone or biscuit.
Adding the Sliced Strawberries
Next, add a few slices of strawberries on top of the strawberry cream.
Assembling the Sandwich
Finally, place the top half of the scone or biscuit on top of the sliced strawberries to complete the sandwich.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you take your strawberry cream sandwich to the next level:
Using Different Types of Cream
While heavy cream is the traditional choice for the strawberry cream sandwich, you can also use other types of cream, such as whipped cream or clotted cream.
Adding a Sprinkle of Sugar
A sprinkle of sugar on top of the strawberry cream sandwich can add a nice textural element and a touch of sweetness.
Using Fresh Fruit
While strawberries are the traditional choice for the strawberry cream sandwich, you can also use other types of fresh fruit, such as blueberries or raspberries.
Conclusion
The strawberry cream sandwich is a classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its soft and fluffy scones or biscuits, sweet and creamy strawberry cream, and fresh sliced strawberries, it’s a treat that’s sure to please. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can make your own strawberry cream sandwich at home and enjoy it with your friends and family.
What is the best type of strawberry to use for a strawberry cream sandwich?
The best type of strawberry to use for a strawberry cream sandwich is a sweet and flavorful variety, such as Camarosa or Albion. These strawberries are known for their high sugar content and tender flesh, which makes them perfect for slicing and layering in a sandwich. Avoid using strawberries that are too tart or have a high water content, as they can make the sandwich soggy.
When selecting strawberries, look for ones that are plump, firm, and have a bright red color. Avoid strawberries with white or green tips, as they may not be ripe yet. You can also use a combination of strawberry varieties to create a unique flavor profile.
How do I prepare the strawberries for the sandwich?
To prepare the strawberries for the sandwich, start by washing them gently in cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat the strawberries dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Next, hull the strawberries by removing the green leaves and white tips. Slice the strawberries into thin pieces, depending on the desired thickness for your sandwich.
You can also macerate the strawberries by sprinkling them with a little sugar and letting them sit for about 15-20 minutes. This will help to release their natural juices and create a sweeter flavor. However, be careful not to over-macerate the strawberries, as they can become too soft and mushy.
What type of cream is best for a strawberry cream sandwich?
The best type of cream for a strawberry cream sandwich is a lightly sweetened whipped cream. You can use heavy cream, whipping cream, or even a combination of both. Avoid using cream that is too sweet or has a strong flavor, as it can overpower the taste of the strawberries.
To make the whipped cream, start by chilling the bowl and beaters in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will help to prevent the cream from becoming too warm and runny. Next, beat the cream until it becomes stiff and holds its shape. Add a little sugar to taste, and whip until combined.
How do I assemble the strawberry cream sandwich?
To assemble the strawberry cream sandwich, start by spreading a layer of whipped cream on one half of the bread. Arrange the sliced strawberries on top of the cream, leaving a small border around the edges. You can also add a sprinkle of sugar or a drizzle of honey to the strawberries for extra flavor.
Next, place the other half of the bread on top of the strawberries, pressing gently to create a sandwich. Make sure the bread is aligned properly and the filling is evenly distributed. You can also use a serrated knife to trim the edges of the bread and create a clean finish.
What type of bread is best for a strawberry cream sandwich?
The best type of bread for a strawberry cream sandwich is a soft and lightly sweetened bread, such as brioche or challah. Avoid using bread that is too dense or has a strong flavor, as it can overpower the taste of the strawberries and cream.
When selecting bread, look for a loaf that is fresh and has a tender crumb. You can also toast the bread lightly to give it a crispy texture and a slightly caramelized flavor. However, be careful not to over-toast the bread, as it can become too crunchy and difficult to bite into.
Can I make the strawberry cream sandwich ahead of time?
While it’s possible to make the strawberry cream sandwich ahead of time, it’s best to assemble the sandwich just before serving. This will help to prevent the bread from becoming soggy and the cream from melting.
However, you can prepare the individual components of the sandwich ahead of time. For example, you can slice the strawberries and whip the cream several hours in advance. Store the strawberries in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and keep the whipped cream chilled until ready to use.
How do I store leftover strawberry cream sandwiches?
To store leftover strawberry cream sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Make sure to keep the sandwiches away from direct sunlight and heat, as they can cause the cream to melt and the bread to become soggy.
When storing the sandwiches, it’s best to keep them in a single layer to prevent them from becoming crushed or damaged. You can also store the individual components of the sandwich separately, such as the sliced strawberries and whipped cream, and assemble the sandwiches just before serving.