Ingredients
Method
Preparation
- Wash strawberries and dry them thoroughly. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Slice each strawberry in half lengthwise, cutting a thin sliver off the rounded bottom of each half so they sit flat.
- Optionally, carve a shallow well in the center of each strawberry half for extra filling space.
- Place halves cut side up on a paper towel-lined tray and let air dry for at least 10 minutes.
Filling Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy (about 2 to 3 minutes).
- In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream on high speed until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined and fluffy. Do not overmix.
Assembly
- Transfer filling to a piping bag (or zip top bag with one corner snipped) and pipe into each strawberry half.
- Sprinkle with graham cracker crumbs, and add sprinkles or chocolate chips on top if desired.
- Chill for 20 to 30 minutes to firm up filling. Serve the same day for best results.
Notes
Choose fully ripe strawberries for the best taste. Make sure to dry the strawberries thoroughly after washing to maintain filling texture. For a lighter filling, consider folding in additional whipped cream. Serve the treats the same day for optimal freshness.
