Berries and Cream Dessert Cups

Welcome to a delightful dessert that promises to sweep you into a world of light, creamy sweetness and vibrant, juicy berries! Our Berries and Cream Dessert Cups recipe is a simple yet elegant treat that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a warm, sunny day at home or a festive gathering, these dessert cups are the perfect option.

In this recipe, we combine the freshest berries of your choice with a splash of lemon juice to enhance their natural flavors. Each cup is then topped with a light, airy whipped topping that melts irresistibly in your mouth.

But the real cherry on top? Our homemade vanilla meringue cookies, which add a delightful crunch and a sophisticated twist. If you haven’t tried making them yet, head over to our Vanilla Meringue Cookies recipe before you start on the dessert cups—they’re easier to whip up than you might think!

Keep reading as we walk through this recipe step by step, ensuring you get that perfect blend of tart, sweet and creamy in every spoonful. Get ready to indulge in a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

A Simple and Healthy Snack

Introducing our Berries and Cream Dessert Cups—a delightful, low-calorie treat that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Perfectly portioned for four servings, each cup contains only 106 calories, making it a fantastic option for those seeking a guilt-free dessert. For those on Nutrisystem, this dish conveniently counts as one SmartCarb and two Extras.

Ingredients Overview

• Berries: Choose from a variety of berries to create a colorful and flavorful blend. Or just stick with one choice! Here are some of our favorite options:
  • Strawberries: Sweet and juicy, strawberries are rich in vitamins C and K.
  • Blueberries: These small berries are packed with antioxidants and provide a lovely mild sweetness.
  • Blackberries: Known for their tartness and fiber content, blackberries add a complex flavor.
  • Raspberries: Delicate and slightly sweet, raspberries offer a good source of manganese and dietary fiber.
• Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice enhances the natural flavors of the berries with its vibrant, citrusy zing.
• Light Whipped Topping: Adds a creamy, airy texture without the heaviness of traditional cream.
• Vanilla Meringue Cookies: A crunchy, sweet topping that pairs wonderfully with the creamy and tart components of the dessert. Get this light and sweet meringue cookie recipe.

Step-by-Step Directions

Begin by mixing your chosen berries with freshly squeezed lemon juice. This not only livens up the berries with a citrus kick but also helps in releasing their natural sugars.

Divide this lemon-berry mixture evenly among four cups or small bowls. Top each with two tablespoons of light whipped topping, which lends a luxurious creaminess to the dessert.

Finish each cup with a Vanilla Meringue Cookie, adding a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft berries.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This recipe is the epitome of simplicity, making it perfect for a quick healthy snack or an effortless dessert option. The diverse flavors and nutritional benefits of the berries, combined with the light whipped topping and meringue cookie, create a balanced and appealing dish that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Enjoy crafting this easy, elegant dessert and indulge in the burst of natural flavors and textures with every spoonful!

Customizing Your Berries and Cream Dessert Cups

One of the joys of this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re catering to specific dietary preferences or simply looking to mix things up, there are numerous ways to customize these delightful dessert cups to suit your taste or occasion.

Mix and Match Berries

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different combinations of berries based on seasonal availability or personal preference. For a tropical twist, consider adding other fruits like diced mango or pineapple. If you’re aiming for something with a bit more tartness, pomegranate seeds can add a pop of flavor and color.

Alternative Sweeteners

If you want your dessert extra sweet, you can sweeten your berries with a drizzle of honey, maple syrup or even a sprinkle of stevia. Adjust the quantity according to how sweet the berries are naturally and your own taste preferences.

Whipped Topping Variations

For those avoiding dairy, coconut whipped cream is a fantastic vegan alternative that’s just as fluffy and satisfying as traditional whipped cream. You can also flavor your whipped topping by mixing in a bit of almond extract or cinnamon for a unique twist.

Crunchy Add-Ons

While the vanilla meringue cookies add a delightful crunch, you can also explore other options like crushed nuts, granola or even a sprinkle of your favorite healthy cereal for added texture and flavor diversity.

Garnishes for Extra Flair

Enhance the visual appeal and taste by garnishing with fresh mint leaves, a dusting of powdered sugar or even some grated dark chocolate. These small additions can elevate the dessert from great to truly exceptional.

These customizations keep the dessert exciting every time you make it. With each variation, you can create a new experience that’s sure to delight anyone who tries it! Refer to the Nutrisystem Grocery Guide for more information on counting ingredient swaps and add-ins.