There’s something magical about a creamy, fruity dessert that instantly brings a smile to your face. That’s exactly what this fresas con crema recipe does—it’s sweet, silky, and bursting with juicy strawberries. I still remember the first time I tried this dessert after moving to the US. Born and raised in Italy, where gelato and fruit-based desserts are part of daily life, I didn’t think anything could top those creamy treats. But then I discovered fresas con crema, and it became a new favorite in my kitchen.
This delicious Mexican classic reminds me why simple recipes often steal the show. Just a handful of ingredients, a few minutes of prep, and suddenly you have a dessert that’s perfect for backyard gatherings, family dinners, or satisfying that late-night sweet tooth. It’s one of those dishes that makes people believe you’ve been cooking all day, even though it takes barely 10 minutes!
Fresas con crema, or strawberries with cream, combines fresh berries with a silky sweet sauce made from sour cream, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla. It’s rich and luscious but still feels refreshing. Whether you grew up enjoying this at family parties or you’re completely new to the recipe, you’ll love how easy and satisfying it is.
What I adore about this fresas con crema recipe is its versatility. Just like my favorite homemade ice cream or even a vibrant carrot ribbon salad, you can enjoy it as a simple weeknight treat or dress it up for special occasions.
So, grab your strawberries, and let’s dive into one of the simplest yet most irresistible desserts you’ll ever make.
The Traditional Fresas con Crema Recipe You’ll Love
Making the perfect fresas con crema recipe at home is easier than you might think. With just a few simple ingredients and quick steps, you’ll have a creamy, fruity dessert that rivals any you’d find at a Mexican street stand or family celebration.
Classic Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of fresas con crema is its simplicity. These classic ingredients come together to create a rich, sweet cream that perfectly complements fresh strawberries:
- 1 pound fresh strawberries
- 2 cups sour cream
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup evaporated milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
It’s always best to use ripe, juicy strawberries for the freshest flavor. The combination of sour cream and sweetened condensed milk creates that signature creamy sweetness, while evaporated milk gives the sauce a smooth, pourable texture. Vanilla extract adds just the right finishing touch.
If you’re craving more creamy, indulgent recipes, don’t miss these delightful Bomboloni alla Crema, the Italian cream-filled donuts that are a perfect complement to fresas con crema.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Fresas con Crema
- Start by rinsing your strawberries thoroughly. Remove the stems and slice the strawberries into thin pieces.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the sour cream, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined.
- Scoop about ½ cup of sliced strawberries into bowls or cups, then generously pour the creamy mixture over the top.
- Serve immediately, or chill in the fridge for a cooler, more refreshing treat.
This fresas con crema recipe isn’t just easy—it’s foolproof. You can also prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to five days.
And for another fun, creamy dessert idea that’s sure to impress, check out these playful Rice Krispies Ice Cream Sandwiches—they’re just as irresistible and perfect for warm days.
Delicious Swaps & Variations for Your Fresas con Crema Recipe
One of the best things about this fresas con crema recipe is how easy it is to adapt. Whether you’re out of an ingredient or simply want to get creative, there are plenty of tasty substitutions and variations to try.
What to Use Instead of Sour Cream
Sour cream gives fresas con crema its signature tangy richness, but it’s not your only option. Here are some great substitutes that keep the dessert creamy and delicious:
- Plain Greek Yogurt: Adds a slight tang with extra protein, making it a lighter option.
- Light Sour Cream: For a lower-fat version that still delivers creaminess.
- Crème Fraîche: Rich and luxurious with a subtle tang—ideal for special occasions.
- Sweetened Whipped Cream: For an extra sweet, airy twist if you’re craving something more like a strawberry shortcake vibe.
These swaps allow you to adjust the flavor or lighten the dessert to your liking, while still keeping that irresistible creamy texture. This is perfect if you’ve ever wondered, “What can I use instead of sour cream in fresas con crema?”—now you’ve got plenty of delicious alternatives to try.
Creative Twists for Your Fresas con Crema Recipe
Once you’ve mastered the classic, why not have fun with some variations? Here are a few simple ways to change things up:
- Swap the Fruit: Fresh blueberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches work beautifully in place of strawberries.
- Make It a Parfait: Layer the cream and fruit with crushed cookies or granola for a dessert parfait everyone will love.
- Add Some Crunch: Top with chopped nuts or cookie crumbles for extra texture.
Looking for another healthier sweet treat to pair with this dessert? You’ll love my Chickpea Cookie Dough—it’s an easy, protein-packed snack that complements fruit-based desserts perfectly.
Expert Tips & FAQs for the Perfect Fresas con Crema Recipe
If you’ve ever wondered how to make fresas con crema recipe even easier or adapt it to your taste, you’re not alone. Below, I’m sharing expert tips and answering the most common questions to help you enjoy this creamy Mexican dessert with confidence.
Quick Fix: How to Make Fresas with Crema Using Just 3 Ingredients
Short on time? You can still whip up a delicious version of fresas con crema using just three simple ingredients:
- Fresh strawberries
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt as a swap)
Simply slice the strawberries, mix the sweetened condensed milk with sour cream, and pour over the fruit. It’s a shortcut version that skips evaporated milk and vanilla, but still satisfies that sweet, creamy craving. For another quick dessert idea with minimal ingredients, try my popular 3-Ingredient Ice Cream Recipe—easy, refreshing, and perfect alongside fresas con crema.
Your FAQs About Fresas con Crema, Answered
What are fresas con crema made of?
The classic fresas con crema recipe combines fresh strawberries with a creamy sauce made of sour cream, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract. It’s rich, smooth, and perfectly sweet.
How to make fresas with crema 3 ingredients?
As mentioned above, simply use strawberries, sweetened condensed milk, and sour cream. It’s quick, fuss-free, and still delicious.
What can I use instead of sour cream in fresas con crema?
Try plain Greek yogurt, light sour cream, or crème fraîche. Each adds a unique touch while keeping the dessert creamy and satisfying.
How to prepare strawberries and cream?
Wash and slice fresh strawberries. In a bowl, mix your cream ingredients (sour cream, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, vanilla). Pour over the strawberries and enjoy!
For another refreshing fruit-based recipe that pairs wonderfully with fresas con crema, don’t miss my Homemade Ice Cream—because creamy desserts never go out of style.
Conclusion: Sweet, Simple, and Full of Flavor
There’s a reason fresas con crema has become a beloved dessert far beyond Mexico—it’s creamy, fruity, and ridiculously easy to make. Whether you stick with the classic fresas con crema recipe or try one of the fun variations, this dessert delivers every time. It’s the perfect way to celebrate strawberry season or treat your loved ones to something sweet and simple.
As someone who blends Italian tradition with global flavors in my kitchen, I can honestly say this recipe is a keeper. So grab those ripe strawberries, mix up that luscious cream, and enjoy a bowl of fresas con crema—you deserve it.
