Strawberry Treat
A delightful strawberry dessert featuring a crunchy nutty topping and creamy strawberry filling, perfect for spring gatherings or summer celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, brown sugar, chopped nuts, and melted butter to make the crumb mixture.
- Spread the crumb mixture in a flat pan and bake at 320°F for 20 minutes, stirring several times during baking.
- Allow the mixture to cool then sprinkle two-thirds of it into a 9 x 12-inch pan.
- In a bowl, beat 3 egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gradually add 1 cup of sugar and continue beating until glossy.
- Fold in 2 cups of mashed strawberries and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice.
- Prepare Dream Whip according to package instructions and fold into the strawberry mixture.
- Spread the strawberry filling over the crumb layer in the pan.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture on top and refrigerate before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting half of the flour with almond flour, which adds a nutty flavor and is perfect for gluten-free diets. If you're short on time, you can use store-bought whipped topping instead of preparing Dream Whip. Ensure your strawberries are ripe for the best flavor; frozen strawberries can also be used if thawed and drained properly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled for a refreshing dessert on warm days. This Strawberry Treat pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light salad, such as the Best Ever And Easy Salad, to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The crumb layer may soften over time, but the flavors will meld beautifully. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the strawberries and Dream Whip may change upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Strawberry Treat contains roughly 803 calories, with 13g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?
Yes, you can substitute strawberries with other berries like raspberries or blueberries, or even peaches. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness based on the fruit's natural sugar level. Each fruit will provide a unique flavor and texture to the dish.
How do I ensure my egg whites reach stiff peaks?
Make sure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and dry, as any fat can prevent the egg whites from whipping properly. Start at a low speed and gradually increase to high once the whites begin to froth, and avoid overbeating, which can lead to dry peaks.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Strawberry Treat can be prepared a day in advance. Just assemble the layers and refrigerate. The flavors will develop overnight, making it even more delicious. Just remember to add the crumb topping right before serving for optimal texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).