Sweet, juicy, and impossibly easy, Macerated Berries with Greek Yogurt Whipped Cream is the sort of show-stopping dessert that comes together in minutes yet feels like the highlight of any meal. Plump berries meld together with a hint of sugar and lemon juice, releasing their jewel-toned juices, while a cloud of tangy, creamy Greek yogurt whipped cream makes each spoonful refreshing and indulgent all at once. Whether you’re seeking a light dessert for a dinner party, a not-too-sweet treat for a summer brunch, or just an excuse to use up glorious fresh berries, this recipe delivers pure delight with very little fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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Macerated Berries:
- 2 cups fresh mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
Greek Yogurt Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh mint for garnish (optional)
How to Make Macerated Berries with Greek Yogurt Whipped Cream
Step 1: Macerate the Berries
In a medium bowl, gently combine the fresh mixed berries with granulated sugar and a splash of lemon juice. Stir until each berry is well coated, then set them aside for at least 20 to 30 minutes. During this time, the berries will relax and release their vibrant juices, turning your fruit into a glossy, flavorful medley that’s delicious all on its own.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
Chill a mixing bowl (and the beaters if you have time) for the fluffiest results. Pour in the heavy whipping cream and beat on medium-high speed until soft peaks begin to form; the whipped cream should just barely hold its shape and look smooth.
Step 3: Sweeten and Flavor the Cream
Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the softly whipped cream, and continue whipping until stiff peaks appear. At this stage, your whipped cream should be billowy yet stable, ready to be folded with the tangy yogurt.
Step 4: Fold in Greek Yogurt
With a gentle touch, fold the plain Greek yogurt into your whipped cream mixture until fully incorporated. This step creates a luscious, creamy topping with just the right balance of lightness and tang.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Spoon the glossy macerated berries into individual serving bowls or glasses, then top with a generous cloud of Greek yogurt whipped cream. For the final flourish, add a sprig of fresh mint if you’re feeling fancy. There you have it—Macerated Berries with Greek Yogurt Whipped Cream, ready to impress.
How to Serve Macerated Berries with Greek Yogurt Whipped Cream
Garnishes
While a sprig of fresh mint is the classic topping, you can also sprinkle on finely grated lemon zest or a few toasted sliced almonds for extra fragrance and crunch. A drizzle of honey is wonderful if you want to boost sweetness and gloss.
Side Dishes
Macerated Berries with Greek Yogurt Whipped Cream is particularly charming alongside light, crisp cookies like almond biscotti or vanilla wafers. For a more indulgent menu, pair it with a slice of angel food cake or a buttery shortbread—simple complements that let those macerated berries shine.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond bowls! Layer everything in small glass jars for portable picnic treats, stack the berries and cream atop meringue nests for a modern pavlova, or spoon the mixture into hollowed-out melon halves for a gorgeous edible centerpiece. Let your creativity take the lead—you truly can’t go wrong.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, keep the macerated berries and the Greek yogurt whipped cream in separate containers. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to two days. The berries may soften more over time, but the flavors will deepen and mingle delightfully.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended for the whipped cream, as it can separate and lose its signature airy texture. However, the macerated berries can be frozen in an airtight container for up to one month. Thaw them in the fridge before serving, though be aware their texture will be a bit softer once defrosted.
Reheating
This dessert is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat. Simply assemble and serve straight from the fridge for a refreshing treat any time.
FAQs
Can I use frozen berries for macerated berries with Greek yogurt whipped cream?
Yes! While fresh berries deliver the best texture, you can use frozen mixed berries in a pinch. Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before macerating with sugar and lemon juice.
Is there a lighter alternative to heavy whipping cream?
You can substitute with coconut cream or a lower-fat dairy whipping cream, but note that the texture and richness of the topping may be slightly different. Greek yogurt alone won’t whip, but adding it to whipped cream gives both creaminess and lightness.
What’s the best Greek yogurt to use?
Whole milk Greek yogurt is ideal for its creaminess and tang, which perfectly balances with the sweet cream and berries. You can substitute with low-fat options, but the final whipped cream may be less luscious.
Can I sweeten the berries with honey instead of sugar?
Absolutely—honey is a delicious natural sweetener that adds lovely floral notes. Use the same amount as the sugar, and drizzle it over the berries before macerating. The honey will slightly change the flavor profile in a delightful way.
How far in advance can I make Macerated Berries with Greek Yogurt Whipped Cream?
You can macerate the berries up to a day in advance and keep the whipped cream and yogurt mixture separate for about 24 hours. Wait to assemble the dessert until just before serving for the freshest taste and prettiest presentation.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s fresh, beautiful, and virtually effortless, Macerated Berries with Greek Yogurt Whipped Cream is the answer. It’s a celebration of summer and simplicity—refreshing, satisfying, and sure to bring smiles to your table. Give it a try and let the flavors work their magic!
Print
Macerated Berries with Greek Yogurt Whipped Cream Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes (including macerating time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
Indulge in the refreshing combination of juicy mixed berries macerated in sugar and lemon juice, topped with a luscious Greek yogurt whipped cream and a hint of fresh mint. This light and summery dessert is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Macerated Berries:
- 2 cups fresh mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
Greek Yogurt Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh mint for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Macerated Berries: In a medium bowl, combine the mixed berries with granulated sugar and lemon juice. Let sit for 20-30 minutes.
- Greek Yogurt Whipped Cream: In a chilled bowl, beat heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, then fold in Greek yogurt.
- To serve, spoon macerated berries into bowls or glasses, top with Greek yogurt whipped cream, and garnish with fresh mint.
Notes
- This dessert can be made ahead, keeping berries and whipped cream separate until serving.
- Substitute honey for sugar in the berries for natural sweetness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
