Fresas con crema, which translates to “strawberries with cream”, is a beloved Mexican dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Known for its vibrant red strawberries swimming in a rich, sweet cream, this dish is a summertime staple throughout Latin America, often enjoyed at festivals, family gatherings, or as a cooling treat on warm days.
What makes it special? It’s the perfect combination of tart, juicy strawberries and a velvety cream sauce, made from ingredients like condensed milk, sour cream, and vanilla. It’s not only easy to prepare but also endlessly customizable and totally irresistible.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
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1 lb (450 g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
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1 cup sour cream (or Mexican crema)
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1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
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1/2 cup evaporated milk
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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2 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, depending on sweetness)
Optional Substitutions:
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Dairy-free version: Use coconut cream and sweetened almond milk.
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Vegan alternative: Swap all dairy for plant-based versions like oat milk, cashew cream, or soy-based products.
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Lower sugar: Use Greek yogurt and stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Prepare the Strawberries:
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Wash, hull, and slice the strawberries into bite-sized pieces.
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Place them in a bowl and sprinkle with sugar (if using), then set aside for 10 minutes to release juices.
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Make the Cream Mixture:
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the sour cream, condensed milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
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Combine:
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Gently fold the strawberries into the cream mixture. Make sure the berries are well-coated.
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Chill:
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Cover and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and the dessert to chill.
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Serve:
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Spoon into dessert cups or bowls, and optionally top with whipped cream, mint, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
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Estimated Time:
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Prep: 15 minutes
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Chill: 30 minutes
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Total: 45 minutes
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
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Don’t skip chilling – it enhances the flavor.
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Avoid over-mixing; strawberries can break down.
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Too much sugar can overpower the natural fruit taste.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
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Use ripe, in-season strawberries for the best flavor and sweetness.
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Whisk the cream ingredients well to avoid lumps and create a silky texture.
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Chill your mixing bowl before whipping the cream mixture for a lighter consistency.
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If you like a thicker texture, add a few tablespoons of cream cheese to the mix.
Tools You’ll Need:
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Mixing bowls
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Whisk
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Paring knife for prepping strawberries
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Measuring cups/spoons
Variations and Customizations
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Gluten-free: This dish is naturally gluten-free!
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Fusion Style: Add diced mango, blueberries, or kiwi for a tropical twist.
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Chocolate version: Stir in mini chocolate chips or drizzle with chocolate syrup.
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Savory-sweet version: Add a pinch of sea salt or a splash of lime juice to elevate the flavor contrast.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve in glass dessert cups for a pretty layered look.
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Garnish with:
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Fresh mint leaves
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Whipped cream
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Cinnamon or nutmeg
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Crushed cookies or graham crackers on top for crunch
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Perfect pairings include iced hibiscus tea, horchata, or a light white wine for adults.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 1 cup)
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Calories: 220–250 kcal
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Protein: 4g
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Carbohydrates: 25g
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Sugars: 20g
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Fat: 12g
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Fiber: 2g
Values may vary based on ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make fresas con crema ahead of time?
Yes! It’s best enjoyed chilled, so making it a few hours in advance works great. Consume within 24 hours for freshness.
2. How long does it last in the fridge?
Store in an airtight container and consume within 2 days. The strawberries will soften over time.
3. Can I freeze fresas con crema?
Not recommended. Freezing alters the texture of the cream and strawberries.
4. What if I don’t have condensed milk?
Use a mix of heavy cream and sugar, or try a honey-sweetened Greek yogurt.
5. How can I make it kid-friendly or lunchbox ready?
Portion into small sealed containers and skip extra sugar to reduce mess and sweetness.
Closing Thoughts
Fresas con crema is more than just a dessert – it’s a celebration of fresh, simple ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re enjoying it after a meal or bringing it to a picnic, it never fails to impress.
Fun fact: In Mexico, you’ll often find this treat sold by street vendors in colorful cups, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
