Strawberries in Citrus Butterscotch Elegance
Indulge in a decadent symphony of flavors with Strawberries in Citrus Butterscotch Elegance. This exquisite dessert celebrates the enchanting qualities of fresh strawberries, believed by many to be an aphrodisiac. Paired with a luscious butterscotch sauce, infused with the zesty brightness of orange, this dish promises to elevate any romantic occasion. The velvety sauce glistens as it drapes over warm, ripe strawberries, creating a delightful contrast of textures. Served over a scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream or nestled within delicate crepes, this dessert is not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavors that dance on the palate.
4
Servings
162.5
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Fresh strawberries
1 pint (hulled and halved if large)
Dark brown sugar
3 tablespoons (none)
Butter
1/4 cup (unsalted)
Orange
1 (juiced and grated for rind)
Heavy cream
1/4 cup (none)
Brandy
3 tablespoons (none)
Instructions
1
Start by hulling the fresh strawberries, and if they are particularly large, slice them in half to ensure even coating with the sauce.
2
In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the dark brown sugar and stir gently until the sugar begins to melt and bubbles. Be careful not to let the sugar burn.
3
Squeeze in the juice of one fresh orange and add the grated orange rind. Continue to cook while stirring, allowing the sugar to dissolve completely and the mixture to thicken slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
4
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, ensuring a smooth and rich sauce. Let the sauce simmer for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
5
Carefully add the prepared strawberries to the sauce, gently folding them in to coat without breaking them apart. Warm the strawberries through for about 2-3 minutes; avoid overheating to preserve their delicate taste and texture.
6
In a separate small saucepan, warm the brandy gently. Once heated, carefully ignite it (using a long lighter or match), and allow the flame to burn down before pouring the warm, caramelized spirit over the strawberries for a spectacular finish.
7
Serve immediately over a scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream or elegantly wrapped in delicate crepes.
Nutrition Information
10g
Fat
20g
Carbs
0.75g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Strawberries in Citrus Butterscotch Elegance?
It is an exquisite dessert featuring fresh strawberries coated in a rich, orange-infused butterscotch sauce, often served over ice cream or crepes.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to yield 4 servings.
What are the primary ingredients needed?
The main ingredients include 1 pint of fresh strawberries, dark brown sugar, unsalted butter, one orange, heavy cream, and brandy.
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Fresh strawberries are recommended to maintain the best texture and prevent the sauce from becoming too watery.
What type of sugar is best for the sauce?
Dark brown sugar is specified to provide a deep, rich molasses flavor characteristic of butterscotch.
Is the brandy necessary?
While the brandy adds a spectacular flambé finish and caramelized flavor, it can be omitted if you prefer an alcohol-free version.
How do I safely flambé the brandy?
Warm the brandy in a separate small saucepan, ignite it carefully with a long lighter, let the flame burn down, and then pour it over the strawberries.
What are the recommended serving options?
It is ideally served immediately over velvety vanilla ice cream or wrapped in delicate crepes.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You could attempt to substitute the butter and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives, though the flavor and richness may vary.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients listed in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
How long does it take to cook the butterscotch sauce?
The sauce takes approximately 3 to 5 minutes to thicken once the orange juice and rind are added.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 162.5 calories.
Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark?
Yes, light brown sugar can be used, though the sauce will have a milder flavor profile.
Should I use salted or unsalted butter?
The recipe calls for unsalted butter to better control the sweetness and flavor of the sauce.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
For the best texture of the strawberries, it is best served immediately, though the sauce itself can be prepared slightly ahead of time.
How do I prepare the orange for this recipe?
You should grate the rind for zest and then juice the orange to add to the sauce.
What if I do not have a long lighter for the brandy?
It is safest to use a long-reach ignition source; if one is not available, it is recommended to skip the flambé step.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
If the brandy is fully ignited the alcohol burns off, but for a strictly child-friendly version, the brandy should be omitted.
What is a non-alcoholic substitute for brandy?
You can use a splash of orange juice or a teaspoon of vanilla extract to add flavor without the alcohol.
How should leftovers be stored?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Can I use other fruits with this sauce?
Yes, fruits like sliced peaches, bananas, or raspberries would also pair beautifully with the citrus butterscotch sauce.
How do I prevent the sugar from burning?
Stir gently over medium heat and add the orange juice as soon as the sugar begins to melt and bubble.
How should the strawberries be prepped?
The strawberries should be hulled and halved if they are large to ensure they are evenly coated by the sauce.
How much heavy cream is used?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of heavy cream to achieve a smooth, rich sauce.
What is the fat content of this dessert?
Each serving contains approximately 10 grams of fat.
Can this be served over yogurt?
Yes, this would make an excellent topping for a thick Greek yogurt.
How do I keep the strawberries from getting mushy?
Only warm the strawberries in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to preserve their delicate texture.
Why is this recipe considered romantic?
Strawberries are traditionally viewed as an aphrodisiac, and the elegant presentation makes it perfect for special occasions.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Toasted pecans or sliced almonds would add a wonderful crunch to the finished dish.
Is there a specific serving size?
While the recipe serves 4, it does not specify a precise weight or volume per portion.