There's something irresistible about a dessert that's both creamy and fruity. Strawberry cream pudding is one of those treats that feels fancy yet is surprisingly easy to make at home.
The smooth texture of the cream paired with the natural sweetness of strawberries makes it a perfect finish for any meal or a delightful afternoon snack.
<h3>Gathering Ingredients</h3>
The first step to a perfect pudding is having the right ingredients. Freshness and quality make a huge difference in flavor.
<b>Essential Ingredients:</b>
Fresh strawberries – 250 grams, washed and hulled
Heavy cream – 200 ml for richness
Whole milk – 200 ml to balance the cream
Sugar – 50 grams, adjust to taste
Gelatin powder – 7 grams, for setting
Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon, for aroma
Optional garnish – extra strawberries or mint leaves
Tip: If fresh strawberries aren't available, frozen berries can be thawed and used without losing much flavor.
<h3>Preparing the Strawberry Puree</h3>
The fruit layer sets the tone for the dessert. A smooth puree ensures an even flavor in every spoonful.
<b>Step-by-Step:</b>
Chop the strawberries roughly and place them in a blender.
Add 1–2 tablespoons of sugar to enhance natural sweetness.
Blend until smooth, then strain through a fine sieve to remove seeds for a silky texture.
Actionable tip: Taste the puree before adding to the pudding. Adjust sugar based on the sweetness of your strawberries.
<h3>Making the Cream Base</h3>
The cream layer is what gives the pudding its signature smoothness.
<b>Step-by-Step:</b>
Pour milk into a small saucepan and heat gently, avoiding a boil.
Sprinkle gelatin over 2 tablespoons of cold milk and let it bloom for 5 minutes.
Whisk the bloomed gelatin into the warm milk until completely dissolved.
Add heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth.
Tip: Keep the mixture warm, not hot, when adding gelatin. High heat can affect its setting ability.
<h3>Assembling the Pudding</h3>
Layering is simple but adds visual appeal.
<b>Step-by-Step:</b>
Pour half of the cream mixture into serving cups and let it set in the fridge for 15 minutes.
Add a layer of strawberry puree on top. You can gently swirl for a marbled effect.
Pour the remaining cream mixture over the puree and chill for at least 2 hours until fully set.
Example: For a small twist, add crushed cookies or sponge cake pieces at the bottom for a layered texture.
<h3>Serving and Garnishing</h3>
Presentation makes the dessert even more tempting.
<b>Tips:</b>
Top with sliced strawberries or a sprig of fresh mint.
A drizzle of strawberry sauce or chocolate can add extra flavor.
Serve chilled for the best texture and taste.
Actionable tip: Run a warm spatula around the edge of the cups before serving if you want to unmold the pudding for a cleaner presentation.
Making strawberry cream pudding at home is not just about following a recipe; it's about enjoying the process and savoring the results. From fresh strawberries to silky cream, each step contributes to a dessert that's as beautiful as it is delicious. Once you master this basic recipe, you can experiment with other fruits, layers, or garnishes to create your personalized sweet treat.
