She Strengthens

Summer’s Sweetest Treat: Strawberry Shortcake Parfait Recipe

A Fresh Twist on a Classic Dessert

Looking for a show-stopping dessert to impress your friends and family this summer? Look no further! Our strawberry shortcake parfait recipe is a game-changer, layering sweet macerated strawberries, crumbly shortbread, and creamy vanilla custard in a beautiful and delicious way.

The Perfect Gathering Dessert

This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, and BBQs. With its light and refreshing flavors, it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just 30 minutes of active time and 3.5 hours of cooling and macerating time.

The Magic of Macerated Strawberries

So, what makes this parfait recipe so special? It’s all about the macerated strawberries. By letting them sit for 30 minutes with sugar and orange zest, they release their natural juices and become sweet and tender. This step is crucial in bringing out the full flavor of the strawberries.

A Custard Like No Other

Our vanilla custard is made with heavy cream, whole milk, and a touch of kosher salt. We add a pinch of cornstarch to give it a silky smooth texture, and a hint of vanilla extract for added depth of flavor. The result is a custard that’s both rich and light, perfect for balancing out the sweetness of the strawberries.

Assembling the Parfait

To assemble the parfait, simply layer the macerated strawberries, custard, and shortbread cookies in 7- or 8-ounce jars or glasses. Top with whipped cream and garnish with additional strawberry slices and orange zest, if desired.

Ingredients:

For the custard:

• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup sugar
• Pinch of kosher salt
• 3 large egg yolks
• 4 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the strawberries:

• 2 cups diced ripe strawberries
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• Finely grated zest of 1 small orange

For the whipped cream:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the shortbread:

• 5 ounces good-quality shortbread cookies

Instructions:

1. Make the custard by warming the cream, milk, and sugar in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk together the egg yolks and cornstarch, then slowly pour in the warm cream mixture. Cook until thickened, then stir in vanilla extract and butter.
2. Macerate the strawberries by stirring them with sugar and orange zest. Let sit for 30 minutes.
3. Whip the cream by beating it with sugar and vanilla extract until medium-stiff peaks form.
4. Assemble the parfait by layering the strawberries, custard, and shortbread in jars or glasses. Top with whipped cream and garnish as desired.

Get Ready for the Oohs and Aahs!

With its stunning layers and delicious flavors, this strawberry shortcake parfait recipe is sure to impress your friends and family. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the oohs and aahs that follow!