Imagine biting into a luscious strawberry that's not just a fruit, but a decadent dessert experience that won't derail your health goals. These Cheese Stuffed Strawberries are the ultimate secret weapon for anyone craving something sweet, creamy, and absolutely irresistible - without the extra calories! Perfect for summer parties, quick desserts, or when you just want to treat yourself to something extraordinary, this recipe transforms ordinary strawberries into a gourmet delight that looks like it came straight from a professional kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 12 large strawberries
- 1/2 cup low-fat cream cheese
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Crushed nuts for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by selecting 12 large, ripe strawberries. Ensure they are firm and free from blemishes for the best flavor and presentation.
- Rinse the strawberries gently under cool running water to remove any dirt or residues. Pat them dry with a clean paper towel, being careful not to bruise the fruit.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the green leafy tops off the strawberries. Then, hollow out the center of each strawberry using a small paring knife or a strawberry huller, creating enough space for the filling. Be cautious not to cut through the bottom of the strawberries.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of low-fat cream cheese, 2 tablespoons of honey, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend the ingredients together until smooth and creamy.
- Using a piping bag or a small spoon, fill each hollowed strawberry with the cream cheese mixture. Ensure that each strawberry is generously filled, but avoid overfilling to prevent spillage.
- If desired, sprinkle crushed nuts on top of the filled strawberries for added texture and flavor. This step is optional but can enhance the overall taste and presentation.
- Arrange the filled strawberries on a serving platter. They can be served immediately or refrigerated for a short time to chill before serving.
- Enjoy your delicious, reduced-calorie cheese stuffed strawberries as a refreshing dessert or a delightful snack!
Tips
- Choose strawberries wisely: Select large, firm strawberries with smooth, bright red skin for the best results.
- Prep technique matters: When hollowing out strawberries, use a small, sharp paring knife and work gently to maintain the strawberry's structural integrity.
- Cream cheese consistency is key: Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth, easy-to-pipe filling.
- Chill before serving: Refrigerating the stuffed strawberries for 15-30 minutes can help the filling set and enhance the flavor.
- Get creative with toppings: While crushed nuts are recommended, you can also experiment with chocolate shavings, coconut flakes, or a light dusting of cinnamon.
- Make ahead tip: Prepare the filling and hollow the strawberries in advance, but fill them just before serving to prevent soggy fruit.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 45kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 5mg
