Fresh mint adds a twist to this strawberry parfait, which is quick and easy to make but has an elegant look that would be appropriate for a festive dinner. I like the dense creaminess of homemade whipped cream (Here, it's flavored with vanilla and a little sugar) but you can make this recipe even faster by using storebought whipped topping. Try substituting other types of cake for the angel food, such as pound cake, shortcake biscuits or, for true decadence, chocolate brownies. (Larger image.)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar, divided
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint, shredded, plus 4 sprigs for garnish
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups prepared angel food cake, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
Preparation:
- In a bowl, combine strawberries, 1/2 teaspoon sugar and 1 tablespoon mint. Refrigerate for 30 minutes or overnight (if you're storing the strawberries overnight, don't add the mint until just before serving).
- In the bowl of a stand mixer (such as a KitchenAid Stand Mixer) fitted with the whisk attachment, or in a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, vanilla extract and remaining 1 teaspoon sugar. Beat with electric mixer until the whipping cream holds medium-stiff peaks.
- In four parfait glasses or dessert cups, layer a spoonful of strawberries, a spoonful of cake pieces and a dollop of whipped cream. Repeat layers one more time, ending with whipped cream. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint. Serve immediately.
This recipe for Strawberry-Mint Parfaits serves 4 people.
