Strawberry Shortcake Fluff Salad is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that combines the light, airy texture of whipped cream with the sweet and juicy flavor of fresh strawberries. This dessert is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or just a sweet treat at home.
Ingredients:
- 2 pints fresh strawberries, sliced
- ½ loaf pound cake or angel food cake, premade or boxed mix
- 10.5 oz mini marshmallows
- 8 oz whipped cream topping
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
Directions:
Prepare the Cake:
- Cut the Cake: Cut the pound cake or angel food cake in half. Remove any dark edges from the ½ loaf cake.
- Cube the Cake: Cut the half loaf into 1½ inch cubes.
- Note: The cake can be store-bought or made from a boxed mix. Ensure it’s plain without frosting or filling. If using a boxed mix, follow the package instructions for baking.
Mix the Ingredients:
- Combine Cream and Milk: In a large bowl, mix together the whipped cream topping and sweetened condensed milk until well combined.
- Add Marshmallows: Stir in the mini marshmallows.
Add Strawberries:
- Slice Strawberries: Slice the fresh strawberries and add them to the bowl with the whipped cream mixture.
- Fold Ingredients: Gently fold all the ingredients together until they are well mixed.
Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate: Cover the salad and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.
- It’s best served within 1-3 days. Note that the sugar in the marshmallows will start to melt after about 2 days. To adjust the texture, you can add more cake cubes or stir in 1-2 tablespoons of vanilla or cheesecake pudding.
FAQ:
Q1: Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
A1: Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor. However, if you use frozen strawberries, make sure they are fully thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.
Q2: What type of cake is best for this recipe?
A2: Both pound cake and angel food cake work well. Pound cake will be denser, while angel food cake will be lighter and fluffier.
Q3: How long can I store the Strawberry Shortcake Fluff Salad?
A3: It is best served within 1-3 days. Beyond that, the texture may change as the marshmallows begin to melt.
Q4: Can I add other fruits to this salad?
A4: Yes, you can add other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches. Just be mindful of the moisture content to avoid making the salad too watery.
Q5: Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought?
A5: Absolutely! Homemade whipped cream can be used for a fresher taste. Just ensure it is stabilized with a bit of powdered sugar or gelatin to maintain its texture.
Q6: Is there a way to make this dessert less sweet?
A6: To reduce the sweetness, you can use unsweetened whipped cream or reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk.
Tips and Notes:
- Presentation: For a more elegant presentation, layer the ingredients in a trifle dish or individual serving cups.
- Texture Adjustment: If the salad becomes too runny, add more cake cubes or a tablespoon or two of instant pudding mix to thicken it.
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of vanilla extract or almond extract to the whipped cream mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
Chef’s Advice (En Français):
« Pour une touche encore plus gourmande, vous pouvez ajouter une cuillère à soupe de liqueur de fraise dans le mélange de crème fouettée. Cela intensifiera la saveur des fraises et apportera une note raffinée à votre dessert. Assurez-vous de bien réfrigérer le dessert avant de servir pour permettre aux saveurs de bien se marier. Bon appétit! »
Enjoy your delightful Strawberry Shortcake Fluff Salad, a perfect treat for any occasion!
