Sweeten Your Day with Annie’s Strawberry Dessert Recipes
Strawberries, with their vibrant color and sweet-tart flavor, are a quintessential summer fruit. When combined with the comforting simplicity of Annie’s brand products, the possibilities for delightful desserts are endless. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, these recipes will guide you through creating irresistible strawberry treats using Annie’s organic and wholesome ingredients.
## Why Annie’s? A Commitment to Quality and Taste
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about why Annie’s is a great choice for your baking adventures. Annie’s Homegrown is known for its commitment to organic and sustainable ingredients. Their products are often free of artificial flavors, synthetic colors, and preservatives, making them a healthier and more wholesome option for you and your family. Using Annie’s products ensures that your strawberry desserts will not only taste delicious but will also be made with ingredients you can feel good about.
## Recipe 1: Annie’s Strawberry Shortcake Delight
This classic dessert gets a wholesome twist with Annie’s organic flour and a generous helping of fresh strawberries. The result is a light, fluffy shortcake that perfectly complements the sweet and juicy fruit.
**Yields:** 6 servings
**Prep Time:** 20 minutes
**Cook Time:** 20 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* **For the Shortcake:**
* 2 cups Annie’s Organic All-Purpose Flour
* 1/4 cup Annie’s Organic Sugar
* 1 tablespoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold Annie’s Organic Unsalted Butter, cut into cubes
* 3/4 cup Annie’s Organic Milk
* **For the Strawberry Topping:**
* 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
* 1/4 cup Annie’s Organic Sugar (or more, to taste)
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
* **For Serving:**
* Whipped cream (optional)
**Equipment:**
* Large mixing bowl
* Pastry blender or fork
* Baking sheet
* Parchment paper (optional)
* Small bowl
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Strawberry Topping:** In a small bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice (if using). Gently toss to combine and let the mixture sit for at least 15 minutes, or up to an hour, allowing the strawberries to release their juices and create a delicious syrup.
2. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup (optional).
3. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the Annie’s Organic All-Purpose Flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
4. **Cut in the Butter:** Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This is a crucial step, as the cold butter creates pockets of steam during baking, resulting in a flaky shortcake.
5. **Add the Milk:** Gradually add the Annie’s Organic Milk to the flour mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can result in a tough shortcake. The dough should be slightly shaggy.
6. **Shape the Shortcakes:** Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. You can also gently pat the dough into a round shape if desired.
7. **Bake the Shortcakes:** Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the shortcakes are golden brown and cooked through. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
8. **Cool and Assemble:** Let the shortcakes cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, split the shortcakes in half horizontally.
9. **Assemble the Dessert:** Place the bottom half of a shortcake on a plate. Spoon a generous amount of the strawberry topping over the shortcake. Top with whipped cream (if using) and the top half of the shortcake.
10. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of flaky shortcake and sweet strawberries.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **For a richer flavor:** Substitute half of the milk with heavy cream.
* **Add zest:** Grate the zest of one lemon or orange into the dry ingredients for a citrusy twist.
* **Use different berries:** Experiment with other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries in combination with the strawberries.
* **Make it vegan:** Use vegan butter and plant-based milk alternative like almond or soy milk.
## Recipe 2: Annie’s Strawberry Crumble Bars
These crumble bars are a perfect treat for a picnic, potluck, or simply a sweet afternoon snack. The buttery crumble topping and the sweet-tart strawberry filling create a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
**Yields:** 16 bars
**Prep Time:** 25 minutes
**Cook Time:** 35-40 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* **For the Crumble and Crust:**
* 2 cups Annie’s Organic All-Purpose Flour
* 1 cup Annie’s Organic Rolled Oats
* 1 cup Annie’s Organic Brown Sugar, packed
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup (2 sticks) cold Annie’s Organic Unsalted Butter, cut into cubes
* **For the Strawberry Filling:**
* 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
* 1/2 cup Annie’s Organic Sugar
* 2 tablespoons cornstarch
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
**Equipment:**
* 9×13 inch baking pan
* Parchment paper (optional)
* Large mixing bowl
* Small mixing bowl
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal (optional).
2. **Prepare the Crumble and Crust:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the Annie’s Organic All-Purpose Flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. **Reserve Crumble:** Press half of the crumble mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust. Press firmly and evenly.
4. **Prepare the Strawberry Filling:** In a small mixing bowl, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Gently toss to combine.
5. **Assemble the Bars:** Pour the strawberry filling over the crust in the baking pan. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture evenly over the strawberry filling.
6. **Bake the Bars:** Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crumble topping is golden brown and the strawberry filling is bubbly.
7. **Cool and Cut:** Let the bars cool completely in the baking pan before cutting them into squares. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan for easier cutting.
8. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve the strawberry crumble bars at room temperature and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add nuts:** Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumble topping for added texture and flavor.
* **Use different fruit:** Substitute some of the strawberries with other berries or fruits like rhubarb or peaches.
* **Make it gluten-free:** Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and gluten-free oats for a gluten-free version.
* **Add spices:** Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the crumble topping for a warm, spiced flavor.
## Recipe 3: Annie’s Strawberry Yogurt Parfaits
For a lighter and healthier dessert option, try these refreshing strawberry yogurt parfaits. They’re quick, easy, and perfect for a breakfast treat or a light snack.
**Yields:** 2 servings
**Prep Time:** 10 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup Annie’s Organic Plain Yogurt (or your favorite flavor)
* 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
* 1/4 cup Annie’s Organic Granola (or your favorite granola)
* 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
* Fresh mint sprigs for garnish (optional)
**Equipment:**
* 2 glasses or parfait dishes
**Instructions:**
1. **Layer the Ingredients:** In each glass or parfait dish, start by layering a spoonful of Annie’s Organic Yogurt. Top with a layer of sliced strawberries, followed by a layer of granola.
2. **Repeat Layers:** Repeat the layers of yogurt, strawberries, and granola until the glasses are filled.
3. **Sweeten (Optional):** Drizzle with honey or maple syrup, if desired, for added sweetness.
4. **Garnish (Optional):** Garnish with fresh mint sprigs for a touch of freshness and visual appeal.
5. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing and healthy strawberry yogurt parfaits.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use different yogurt flavors:** Experiment with different yogurt flavors like vanilla, strawberry, or Greek yogurt.
* **Add other fruits:** Add other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or bananas for a more colorful and flavorful parfait.
* **Add chia seeds:** Sprinkle a tablespoon of chia seeds between the layers for added nutrition and texture.
* **Make it vegan:** Use a plant-based yogurt alternative like coconut or almond yogurt.
## Recipe 4: Annie’s Strawberry Oat Bars (Healthier Option)
These bars offer a delightful combination of textures and are a great way to incorporate more whole grains into your dessert. Using Annie’s organic oats adds a wholesome touch that you can feel good about.
**Yields:** 12 bars
**Prep Time:** 20 minutes
**Cook Time:** 30 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 1 ½ cups Annie’s Organic Rolled Oats
* 1 cup Annie’s Organic Whole Wheat Flour (or All-Purpose)
* ½ cup Annie’s Organic Brown Sugar, packed
* ½ teaspoon baking soda
* ¼ teaspoon salt
* ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) unsalted butter, melted
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* **Strawberry Filling:**
* 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
* 2 tablespoons chia seeds
* ¼ cup Annie’s Organic Maple Syrup (or honey)
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
**Equipment:**
* 8×8 inch baking pan
* Parchment paper (optional, but recommended)
* Mixing bowls
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. **Prepare the Strawberry Filling:** In a medium bowl, combine the chopped strawberries, chia seeds, maple syrup, and lemon juice. Stir well and let sit for at least 15 minutes, allowing the chia seeds to absorb some of the moisture and thicken the mixture. This creates a jam-like consistency.
3. **Make the Oat Base:** In a large bowl, combine the Annie’s Organic Rolled Oats, Whole Wheat Flour (or All-Purpose), brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.
4. **Add Wet Ingredients to Oat Mixture:** Pour the melted butter and vanilla extract into the dry ingredients. Stir until well combined and the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5. **Assemble the Bars:** Press half of the oat mixture firmly into the prepared baking pan to form the bottom crust. Spread the strawberry filling evenly over the crust.
6. **Add the Crumble Topping:** Crumble the remaining oat mixture over the strawberry filling. You can gently press it down for a more uniform topping, or leave it more crumbly for a rustic look.
7. **Bake:** Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the strawberry filling is bubbly.
8. **Cool and Cut:** Let the bars cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and serve.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Nuts:** Mix ½ cup of chopped nuts (almonds, pecans, walnuts) into the oat mixture for added crunch and flavor.
* **Spice It Up:** Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the oat mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.
* **Change the Sweetener:** Substitute coconut sugar or agave nectar for the brown sugar and maple syrup.
* **Berry Medley:** Use a mix of berries, such as raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries, in addition to the strawberries.
## Recipe 5: Annie’s Strawberry Cream Cheese Dip (Perfect for Parties)
This creamy, sweet dip is incredibly easy to make and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serve it with graham crackers, fruit, or even pretzels for a sweet and salty treat. Using Annie’s products ensures a high-quality and delicious final result.
**Yields:** Approximately 2 cups
**Prep Time:** 10 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
* ½ cup Annie’s Organic Powdered Sugar
* ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and finely diced
* Annie’s Organic Graham Crackers, for serving (or other dippers)
**Equipment:**
* Mixing bowl
* Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer)
**Instructions:**
1. **Beat Cream Cheese:** In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Make sure there are no lumps.
2. **Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla:** Gradually add the Annie’s Organic Powdered Sugar to the cream cheese, beating on low speed until well combined. Add the vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
3. **Fold in Strawberries:** Gently fold in the finely diced strawberries until evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese mixture.
4. **Chill (Optional):** For best results, chill the dip in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This also helps the dip to thicken slightly.
5. **Serve:** Serve the Strawberry Cream Cheese Dip with Annie’s Organic Graham Crackers, fresh fruit (such as strawberries, apple slices, or grapes), or pretzels.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add a Touch of Citrus:** Zest of ½ a lemon or orange will brighten the flavors of the dip.
* **Mix in Other Berries:** Add a small amount of blueberries or raspberries for a more complex berry flavor.
* **Make it Chocolatey:** Add a tablespoon or two of cocoa powder for a chocolate-strawberry dip.
* **Use Strawberry Extract:** If you want a stronger strawberry flavor, add a few drops of strawberry extract.
## Recipe 6: Annie’s Strawberry Smoothie (Quick & Easy)
This smoothie is a healthy and delicious way to start your day or enjoy a refreshing treat. The combination of strawberries, yogurt, and a touch of sweetness makes it a perfect blend of flavor and nutrition.
**Yields:** 1 serving
**Prep Time:** 5 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup frozen strawberries
* ½ cup Annie’s Organic Plain Yogurt (or vanilla yogurt)
* ½ cup Annie’s Organic Milk (or almond milk, or other milk substitute)
* 1 tablespoon Annie’s Organic Honey (or maple syrup, or other sweetener, to taste)
* Optional: 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flax seeds for added nutrition
**Equipment:**
* Blender
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** Place all ingredients (frozen strawberries, yogurt, milk, honey, and optional chia or flax seeds) into a blender.
2. **Blend:** Blend until smooth and creamy. If the smoothie is too thick, add a little more milk. If it’s not sweet enough, add more honey or sweetener.
3. **Serve:** Pour the smoothie into a glass and serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Greens:** Sneak in some spinach or kale for added nutrients. You won’t even taste it!
* **Use Different Fruits:** Add a banana or other berries for a more complex flavor.
* **Make it a Protein Smoothie:** Add a scoop of protein powder for a boost of protein.
* **Adjust Sweetness:** Adjust the amount of honey or sweetener to your preference.
## The Sweet Conclusion: Baking with Annie’s and Strawberries
These recipes showcase the versatility of strawberries and the quality of Annie’s organic ingredients. Whether you’re craving a comforting shortcake, a simple parfait, or a shareable crumble bar, these desserts are sure to delight. Remember to adjust the sweetness and add your personal touch to make each recipe your own. So, grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create some delicious memories with Annie’s and the magic of strawberries!
Enjoy your baking adventures! Happy creating, and happy eating!