Eton Mess
A classic British summer dessert featuring a delightful mix of crushed meringue, whipped cream, and fresh strawberries, creating a delightful textural and flavour contrast.
🧂 Ingredients
- 150 g Ready-made meringue nests or cookies(About 4-6 medium nests or a similar weight of meringue cookies)
- 400 ml Double cream or heavy whipping cream(Must be at least 35% fat content for best whipping results)
- 400 g Fresh strawberries(Choose ripe, sweet strawberries)
- 2 tbsp Caster sugar or granulated sugar(Optional, for sweetening the strawberries if they are tart)
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract(Optional, for flavouring the cream)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the strawberries: Wash the strawberries gently under cold water and pat them dry. Hull them by removing the green leafy tops. Slice larger strawberries in half or quarters, leaving smaller ones whole. Place the prepared strawberries in a bowl. If they are not very sweet, sprinkle the caster sugar over them and gently toss to coat. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes to macerate, allowing their juices to release and create a natural syrup.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 2
Whip the cream: Pour the cold double cream into a chilled mixing bowl. If using, add the vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer or a whisk, whip the cream on medium-high speed. Start slowly and increase speed as the cream thickens. Continue whipping until soft peaks form – the cream should hold its shape loosely when the whisk is lifted, but the peaks will curl over. Be careful not to over-whip, or you'll end up with butter.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Break the meringue: Gently break the meringue nests or cookies into bite-sized pieces. You want a mix of larger shards and smaller crumbs for texture. Don't crush them into dust; some structural integrity is desirable.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 4
Assemble the Eton Mess: In a large bowl or individual serving glasses, gently fold together the whipped cream, broken meringue pieces, and macerated strawberries (including their juices). Use a spatula to lightly combine them, creating swirls and layers rather than a uniform mixture. The goal is to have distinct textures and colours visible. Serve immediately to enjoy the crispness of the meringue.
⏱️ 3 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For best results, use cold cream and a chilled bowl when whipping.
- ✓Don't overmix the ingredients during assembly; a rustic, layered look is key.
- ✓Eton Mess is traditionally associated with Eton College, served at their annual cricket match.
- ✓This dessert is best enjoyed immediately after assembly to prevent the meringue from becoming too soggy.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a handful of fresh raspberries along with the strawberries for extra tartness and colour.
- Incorporate tropical flavours by adding diced mango or passion fruit pulp.
- A splash of fruit liqueur, like Chambord or Kirsch, can be added to the strawberries.
- For a richer flavour, fold in a tablespoon of finely chopped toasted almonds or pistachios.