When you’re in the mood for a delicious treat but don’t have much time or the inclination to bake, this Strawberry Delight is the perfect solution. Ready in just 10 minutes, this no-bake dessert is not only quick and easy but also light and refreshing, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. With no need for an oven, eggs, or cream, this dessert keeps things simple while still delivering on flavor. The combination of a crunchy cookie base, a smooth cottage cheese filling, and the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries is guaranteed to leave everyone craving more.
Ingredients for Strawberry Delight
For the Cookie Base:
- 80g cookies – Any type of cookies will work, but digestive biscuits or graham crackers are excellent options for the base.
- 50g soft butter – The butter binds the cookie crumbs together to form a firm and delicious base.
For the Filling:
- 100g cottage cheese – Cottage cheese provides a creamy texture, and it’s a healthier alternative to heavy cream or mascarpone.
- 50ml condensed milk – Adds a rich sweetness that perfectly balances the mild flavor of cottage cheese.
For the Gelatin:
- 15g gelatin – Gelatin helps the dessert set and gives the filling a smooth, firm texture.
- 70ml cold water – Used to dissolve the gelatin.
For the Decoration:
- 4-5 strawberries – Fresh strawberries provide a burst of color, flavor, and natural sweetness to finish off the dessert beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Strawberry Delight
1. Prepare the Base:
- Crush the Cookies: Start by crushing 80g of cookies into fine crumbs. You can do this by placing them in a ziplock bag and using a rolling pin to crush them, or you can use a food processor for quicker results.
- Combine with Butter: Melt 50g of soft butter and mix it with the cookie crumbs until well combined. The butter will help the crumbs stick together, creating a firm base for the dessert.
- Form the Base: Press the cookie-butter mixture into the bottom of your serving dishes (small individual cups or a larger dish, depending on your preference) to form a base. Press down firmly so that the crumbs hold together.
- Set Aside: Once the base is prepared, set it aside while you work on the filling.
2. Prepare the Strawberries:
- Wash the Strawberries: Rinse 4-5 strawberries under cold water and pat them dry.
- Slice the Strawberries: Cut the strawberries into thin slices. These will be used to decorate the top of the dessert later, adding a fresh, vibrant finish.
3. Prepare the Gelatin:
- Bloom the Gelatin: In a small bowl, pour 15g of gelatin into 70ml of cold water and let it sit for a few minutes until it swells. This process is called “blooming” and ensures that the gelatin dissolves smoothly.
- Dissolve the Gelatin: Once the gelatin has bloomed, heat it in the microwave for a few seconds until it completely dissolves. Stir well to make sure there are no lumps. Allow the gelatin to cool slightly before adding it to the cottage cheese mixture.
4. Prepare the Filling:
- Mix Cottage Cheese and Condensed Milk: In a mixing bowl, combine 100g of cottage cheese with 50ml of condensed milk. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to beat the mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy. This will form the base of the filling.
- Add Gelatin: Gradually pour the cooled, dissolved gelatin into the cottage cheese mixture while stirring constantly to ensure it blends well. This will give the filling its firm texture once it sets in the fridge.
5. Assemble the Dessert:
- Pour the Filling: Pour the cottage cheese mixture over the cookie base in your prepared serving dishes. Gently smooth the top with a spatula or spoon to ensure an even layer of filling.
- Decorate with Strawberries: Carefully arrange the thinly sliced strawberries on top of the filling, creating a decorative pattern or simply scattering them across the surface. The fresh strawberries will add both color and flavor to the dessert.
6. Chill:
- Refrigerate: Place the assembled desserts in the refrigerator and chill for 1-2 hours, or until the filling has set. You can also prepare this dessert in advance and leave it to set overnight if you prefer.
- Serve: Once the dessert has set, it’s ready to be served. You can enjoy it chilled directly from the refrigerator or let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Delight
- Garnish with Mint: Add a sprig of fresh mint to each serving for a refreshing touch that enhances both the flavor and appearance of the dessert.
- Top with Whipped Cream: For extra richness, serve the dessert with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
- Pair with a Drink: This light dessert pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee, tea, or even a sparkling beverage. It’s a great option for afternoon tea or a sweet treat after dinner.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Gelatin Substitutes: If you don’t have gelatin, you can use agar-agar as an alternative. Agar-agar sets at a lower temperature, so be sure to follow the instructions carefully when using it as a substitute.
- Cottage Cheese Texture: If you prefer a smoother filling, you can blend the cottage cheese in a food processor before mixing it with condensed milk. This will create an even creamier texture.
- Cookie Base Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cookies for the base. Chocolate cookies or oatmeal cookies can add unique flavors to the dessert.
- Fruit Variations: If strawberries are not in season or you want to try something different, you can use other fresh fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches to decorate the dessert.
Nutritional Benefits of Strawberry Delight
While this dessert is undeniably sweet and indulgent, it also offers some health benefits:
- Low in Calories: The use of cottage cheese and a simple cookie base keeps the dessert light while still satisfying your sweet tooth.
- Protein from Cottage Cheese: Cottage cheese is a good source of protein, which helps in muscle repair and keeps you feeling full for longer.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Strawberries are packed with antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health.
- No Heavy Cream or Eggs: By avoiding the use of heavy cream and eggs, this dessert is lower in fat and cholesterol, making it a lighter option compared to many traditional desserts.
FAQs About Strawberry Delight
Can I make this dessert in advance?
Yes, Strawberry Delight is ideal for making in advance. In fact, it needs time to chill in the refrigerator for the filling to set properly. Prepare it a day ahead and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
While fresh strawberries work best for decoration, you can use frozen strawberries for the filling. However, be aware that frozen strawberries may release more water during thawing, which could affect the texture of the dessert. It’s recommended to use fresh strawberries for the best result.
Can I make this dessert without gelatin?
If you want a vegan or vegetarian version, you can substitute the gelatin with agar-agar, which is plant-based and works similarly to gelatin. Make sure to follow the package instructions for correct usage.
How long will this dessert last in the fridge?
This dessert can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container. The cookies in the base may soften slightly as they sit, but the overall taste and texture should remain delightful.
Can I use a different sweetener instead of condensed milk?
Yes, you can substitute condensed milk with a different sweetener, such as honey, maple syrup, or agave syrup, depending on your preference. However, condensed milk provides a unique richness that might be difficult to replicate exactly.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Delight is the perfect no-bake, 10-minute dessert for anyone craving something sweet and refreshing without the hassle of complicated ingredients or a long preparation time. With a simple base made from cookies, a creamy cottage cheese filling, and a topping of fresh strawberries, this dessert is both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you serve it at a party, prepare it as a quick treat, or enjoy it as a personal indulgence, this Strawberry Delight is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.