Irresistible Deviled Strawberry Hearts That Will Steal Your Heart
Learn how to make delicious Deviled Strawberry Hearts. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (substitute with mascarpone for a richer flavor)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, but adds warmth)
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (trust me, it’s magic — optional for a slight kick)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional for crunch)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional but lovely)
Instructions
- Begin by washing and hulling your strawberries. Slice them into thin, even pieces — Mama Lu always said, “Even slices make the heart happy.”
- Using a small heart-shaped cookie cutter, carefully press into each strawberry slice to create heart shapes. Set these aside on a parchment-lined tray.
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Beat together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. This reminds me of stirring Mama Lu’s jam — slow and steady wins the day.
- Gently fold in the cinnamon and cayenne pepper if you’re using them. This little pinch of spice adds a surprising warmth that balances the sweetness perfectly, much like the subtle spice in Mama Lu’s Sunday pot roast.
- Pipe or spoon a small dollop of the cream cheese mixture onto half of your strawberry hearts. If you want to add crunch, sprinkle a bit of chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the filling before placing the second heart on top, creating a sandwich.
- Carefully press the matching strawberry heart on top, gently pressing to seal the edges without squishing the filling out. The shape should stay distinct and pretty — like the memories we hold onto from long ago.
- Arrange your Deviled Strawberry Hearts on a serving platter and garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
- Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes if you prefer them a bit firmer. I remember how Mama Lu always said, “Patience is the secret ingredient,” and sometimes, letting flavors settle just makes the moment sweeter.
Find it online: https://claracooking.com/deviled-strawberry-hearts/
