Vanilla cream with strawberries

Vanilla cream with strawberries is a classic dessert that delights with both flavour and ease of preparation. It''s the perfect dessert for any occasion, whether it''s a special Valentine''s dinner or a simple family meal.

As with any dessert, it is important to use high-quality ingredients. The vanilla cream must be made with real vanilla beans and the strawberries must be ripe and sweet. If you can find fresh, local strawberries, they will taste even better.

To make the vanilla custard, you will need sweet whipping cream, sugar and vanilla beans, which are hollowed out from the vanilla pods. Heat the cream until it is hot but not boiling. Remove from the heat and add the sugar and vanilla beans. Stir until the sugar has dissolved, then leave the mixture to cool. Once cool, strain the vanilla bean from the cream and chill in the fridge.

You can also ''cheat'' a little when making the vanilla cream by using BAM vanilla cream mix.

To prepare the dessert, you will need fresh strawberries. Peel and slice the strawberries, then place them in a jar or bowl. Then put the cooled vanilla cream on top of the strawberries. If desired, you can also add some whipped cream. If you don''t have fresh strawberries, you can also use strawberry puree.

The vanilla cream with strawberries is best served cold and can be garnished with a dusting of icing sugar or a sprig of mint.

As well as being a delicious dessert, vanilla cream with strawberries is also a healthy choice. Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C and other antioxidants that can help boost your immune system.

Cream is also a good source of calcium, which is important for healthy bones. This recipe can also be adapted by adding other fruits such as blueberries or raspberries, or even chocolate slices on top.

Strawberries can also be used in other desserts. Some ideas can be found here:

• RECIPE: Vanilla Cake with Strawberries
• RECEPT: Strawberry Lights with White Chocolate
• RECEPT: White chocolate and strawberry cheesecake