Sweet Simplicity: The Classic English Fool
This traditional English dessert has been a crowd-pleaser for centuries, and for good reason. With its light, airy texture and sweet-tart flavor, it’s the perfect way to end a summer meal.
A Fruitful History
The fool, which dates back to 16th-century England, is a dessert of sweetened fruit folded into stiffly peaked whipped cream. Its simplicity is part of its charm, making it accessible to even the most novice bakers.
Berry Best
While many fruits and vegetables can be used to make a fool, berries are a popular choice, particularly strawberries. If you want to stay true to tradition, try using gooseberries for a quintessential English experience.
Easy as Pie (or Fool)
This recipe yields 6 servings and takes only 20 minutes to prepare, plus cooling and chilling time. With just 7 ingredients, it’s a breeze to whip up.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces strawberries, washed, hulled, and cut into large dice (about 2 1/2 cups)
- 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- Pinch fine salt
- 1/2 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest (from 1/2 medium lemon)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
The Whipped Wonder
To make the fool, start by cooking the strawberries with sugar and salt until they’re tender and syrupy. Then, whisk the heavy cream until it reaches soft peaks, gradually adding sugar and vanilla extract. Fold the cooled strawberry sauce into the whipped cream until nearly incorporated, leaving a few streaks of whipped cream and sauce.
Serve and Enjoy
Divide the fool among six 1/2-cup serving bowls or ramekins and garnish with the reserved strawberry sauce. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours. This light, easy dessert is sure to become a summer staple.
Summer Sweetness Ahead
Looking for more light and easy summertime desserts? Try our strawberry cream cake recipe for another sweet treat.
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