Strawberry Eton Mess for Mother's Day

Topped with caramelized almonds, a tart whipped cream, and marinated strawberries, this Eton mess is a perfect choice for Mother's Day or any special occasion.

• Preparation Time: 15 mins
• Cooking Time: 5 mins
• Total Time: 20 mins
• Calories: 545 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon white sugar
• 2 tablespoons white sugar
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 4 tablespoons sour cream
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon raspberry vinegar
• 1 (16 ounce) package fresh strawberries, quartered
• 12 leaves basil, sliced
• 3 tablespoons white sugar, or as needed
• 1 (4.3 ounce) package plain meringue cookies, coarsely crushed
• 0.25 cup chopped almonds, or to taste

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Combine strawberries, 2 tablespoons sugar, balsamic and raspberry vinegars, and basil in a bowl. Let sit until strawberries have released their juices and absorbed all the flavors, at least 15 minutes.

Step 2

Whip heavy cream in a chilled glass or metal bowl with an electric mixer until frothy. Add 1 tablespoon sugar gradually, continuing to beat until soft peaks form. Add sour cream and cream cheese and mix until evenly blended.

Step 3

Sprinkle some sugar into a heavy saucepan until the bottom of the pan is covered with a thin layer. Cook over medium heat, and as sugar starts to melt, sprinkle in a little more. Cook and stir until sugar is caramelized and amber in color; stir in almonds. Remove from the heat and pour onto a sheet of parchment paper. Place another piece of parchment paper on top and use a rolling pin to roll it into a thin layer. Allow to cool, then break into pieces.

Step 4

Place some marinated strawberries in the bottom of 4 serving dishes. Layer with cream and top with crushed meringues. Continue layers to the top of the dishes, garnishing the top with caramelized almond pieces, more meringues, and strawberries.