Patriotic Berry Cream Delight
This delightful Patriotic Berry Cream Delight is a refreshing and visually stunning dessert that has been a cherished tradition in my home since 1994. Perfect for celebrating Independence Day or Memorial Day, this dessert combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries and blueberries with a luscious cream cheese and whipped cream blend. Each bite is a perfect balance of flavors, and the colorful presentation makes it an eye-catching centerpiece for any summer gathering. While I reserve this indulgent treat for special occasions, it truly is a delightful dessert for any time of the year! Join me in creating beautiful memories with family and friends over this beloved recipe that encapsulates the spirit of celebration.
18
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cream cheese
16 ounces (softened)
Granulated sugar
1/2 cup (none)
Vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon (none)
Almond extract
1/2 teaspoon (none)
Heavy cream
2 cups (whipped)
Strawberries
2 quarts (halved, divided)
Blueberries
2 quarts (divided)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Beat the mixture with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy.
2
Gently fold in the whipped cream until fully combined, ensuring a light and airy texture.
3
In a 4-quart serving bowl, layer one-third of the cream cheese mixture as the base.
4
Set aside 20 strawberry halves and 1/2 cup of blueberries for the garnish later. Layer half of the remaining strawberries and half of the blueberries onto the cream mixture.
5
Spread another third of the cream mixture over the berry layer, followed by the remaining strawberries and blueberries.
6
Top with the remaining cream mixture, spreading it evenly to cover the berries.
7
Create a flag design on top using the reserved strawberry halves and blueberries for a festive presentation.
8
Cover the dessert with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Patriotic Berry Cream Delight?
Patriotic Berry Cream Delight is a refreshing layered dessert featuring fresh strawberries, blueberries, and a luscious cream cheese and whipped cream blend.
What occasions is this dessert best for?
It is ideal for Independence Day, Memorial Day, or any summer gathering where a festive and colorful treat is desired.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 18 servings.
What are the primary ingredients needed?
The main ingredients are cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract, heavy cream, strawberries, and blueberries.
Does the cream cheese need to be softened?
Yes, the 16 ounces of cream cheese should be softened to ensure a smooth and fluffy texture when beaten.
How do I prepare the heavy cream for this recipe?
The 2 cups of heavy cream should be whipped before being gently folded into the cream cheese mixture.
Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?
Fresh berries are recommended for the best texture and to prevent excess moisture from affecting the cream layers.
What extracts provide the flavor in the cream?
This recipe uses both vanilla extract and almond extract to create a well-balanced flavor profile.
How many layers of cream are in the dessert?
The dessert consists of three layers of the cream cheese mixture.
What is the layering process for the berries?
You layer half of the non-reserved berries on the first cream layer, and the other half on the second cream layer.
How long should the dessert be refrigerated before serving?
It should be refrigerated for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld properly.
How do I decorate the top of the dessert?
Use the reserved strawberry halves and blueberries to create a festive flag design on the top cream layer.
What size serving bowl is recommended?
A 4-quart serving bowl is recommended to accommodate all the layers and fruit.
How should strawberries be prepared?
The 2 quarts of strawberries should be halved before being layered or used as a garnish.
Can I make this dessert in advance?
Yes, because it requires at least 4 hours of refrigeration, it is an excellent make-ahead dessert for parties.
Is this recipe a long-standing tradition?
Yes, the recipe author notes this has been a cherished family tradition since 1994.
How do I ensure the cream mixture stays light and airy?
Gently fold in the whipped cream rather than beating it to maintain the air incorporated during whipping.
Can I substitute the granulated sugar?
While the recipe calls for granulated sugar, you could theoretically use a sugar substitute designed for baking, though texture may vary.
What is the preparation for the blueberries?
The 2 quarts of blueberries should be washed, dried, and divided for layering and garnishing.
Should the bowl be covered while in the fridge?
Yes, cover the dessert with plastic wrap or a lid to keep it fresh while it sets.
Is this dessert suitable for large crowds?
With 18 servings, it is perfect for large family gatherings and potlucks.
Can I add other berries like raspberries?
While the 'patriotic' theme uses red and blue berries, raspberries could be added for additional flavor.
What equipment is needed?
You will need a large mixing bowl, an electric mixer for the cream cheese, and a 4-quart serving dish.
How do I prevent the fruit from sinking?
The thick consistency of the cream cheese and whipped cream blend helps support the berry layers.
Can I use store-bought whipped topping?
The recipe specifies whipped heavy cream, which provides a richer taste, but store-bought topping can be used in a pinch.
What speed should I use on the electric mixer?
Use medium speed when beating the cream cheese and sugar to achieve a smooth consistency.
Is there a specific way to halve the strawberries?
Simply hull them and cut them vertically from top to bottom for the best visual effect in the flag design.
How many blueberries are reserved for garnish?
Set aside 1/2 cup of blueberries for the final flag design decoration.
How many strawberry halves are reserved for garnish?
Set aside 20 strawberry halves to create the red stripes or borders for the flag design.
Is this dessert served cold?
Yes, it should be served chilled directly from the refrigerator for the best experience.