Welcome to my cozy little corner of the internet, where I love to share stories and recipes straight from my heart. Today, I want to take you on a delightful journey with a dessert that has become a family favorite in our home: Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumble Jars. Imagine biting into layers of sweet strawberries, creamy cheese, and a buttery, nutty crumble—all crafted to be low in carbs but high in flavor. It’s the kind of treat that feels like a warm hug after a long day.
I remember the first time I made these jars. It was a rainy afternoon, and the kids were restless. We needed something to brighten up our spirits, and these little jars of joy did just the trick. As we sat around the table, giggling and sharing stories, the world outside faded away, leaving us with nothing but the sweet taste of strawberries and love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this dessert both delicious and guilt-free.
- Fresh Strawberries: Nature’s candy! When selecting strawberries, go for the ones that are bright red and fragrant. They add a natural sweetness and a pop of color to our jars.
- Cream Cheese: The creamy base of our dessert, offering a tangy contrast to the sweet strawberries. Make sure it’s softened to mix easily.
- Almond Flour: A perfect low-carb alternative to traditional flour, giving our crumble that irresistible crunch and nuttiness.
- Butter: A little bit of melted butter helps bind our crumble together. Plus, it adds richness to the flavor profile.
- Sweetener: Choose your favorite low-carb sweetener, such as erythritol or stevia. This keeps our dessert sweet without the added carbs.
- Vanilla Extract: Just a dash will enhance the flavors and bring everything together with its warm, inviting aroma.
- A Pinch of Salt: It might seem small, but a tiny pinch of salt can elevate the sweetness and balance the flavors beautifully.
Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Your Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumble Jars
The magic of this dessert is not just in its taste but also in its simplicity. Let’s get started!
- Prep Your Strawberries: Start by washing and hulling the strawberries. Slice them into bite-sized pieces and set aside. If your strawberries are a bit tart, feel free to sprinkle a little sweetener and let them sit for a few minutes.
- Mix the Cream Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, a touch of sweetener, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy. Taste it and adjust the sweetness if necessary. Remember, the strawberries will add their own sweetness.
- Prepare the Crumble: In another bowl, mix together the almond flour, melted butter, a bit of sweetener, and a pinch of salt. Use your fingers to combine until you achieve a sandy texture with small clumps.
- Assemble Your Jars: Take your favorite mason jars or dessert cups. Start with a layer of strawberries at the bottom, followed by a generous dollop of the cream cheese mixture. Sprinkle a layer of crumble on top. Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the jar, ending with a crumble layer.
At this point, your kitchen should be filled with the heavenly aroma of vanilla and strawberries. Isn’t it amazing how food can transport us to a place of comfort and happiness? Check back soon for the rest of the steps and some serving suggestions that will make your dessert truly shine.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Crumble Jars
To ensure your Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumble Jars turn out perfect every time, consider these pro tips. First, choose fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor. Their natural sweetness will shine through, making your dessert truly irresistible. Also, when mixing the cream cheese layer, ensure it’s at room temperature for a smooth and creamy finish. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Variations and Substitutions
One of the joys of cooking is making a dish your own. For a twist on this recipe, try using raspberries or blueberries instead of strawberries. If you’re dairy-free, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative. Almond flour can be swapped with coconut flour for a different texture in the crumble. These little changes can bring a whole new dimension to your dessert, so feel free to experiment and enjoy your culinary creativity!
What to Serve With Your Crumble Jars
These Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumble Jars are delightful on their own, but why not elevate the experience? Serve them with a dollop of whipped coconut cream on top or a sprinkle of crushed nuts for added texture. Pairing them with a cup of freshly brewed herbal tea can also enhance the flavors, making for a truly relaxing and indulgent treat.
Storage and Reheating Guidance
To store your crumble jars, cover them tightly and place them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you prefer them warm, simply remove the lids and heat them in the oven at a low temperature for about 10 minutes. Just be sure to let them cool slightly before serving to avoid any burnt tongues!
FAQ
Can I make these crumble jars ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the layers separately and assemble them just before serving. This ensures the crumble stays crisp and the flavors remain vibrant.
Is there a way to make this recipe nut-free?
Yes, you can substitute almond flour with oat flour or sunflower seed flour. These alternatives will maintain the crumble texture while keeping it nut-free.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Frozen strawberries can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture from affecting the texture of your dessert.
Final Thoughts
As you whisk, blend, and assemble your way to creating these delightful Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumble Jars, remember that cooking is an expression of love. Whether you’re making these for a special occasion or just because, let each layer tell a story of care and joy. Enjoy every bite and share it with those you treasure. You’ve got this!
Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumble Jars (Low Carb)
Description
Indulge in a deliciously creamy and fruity dessert without the guilt! These Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumble Jars are low in carbs and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Delight in layers of fresh strawberries, smooth cream cheese filling, and a crunchy crumble topping.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- For the Strawberry Layer:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 tablespoon granulated erythritol or your preferred low-carb sweetener
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered erythritol
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- For the Crumble Topping:
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated erythritol
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Prepare the Strawberry Layer: In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, erythritol, and lemon juice. Stir gently and set aside to macerate while you prepare the other components.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using an electric mixer until smooth. Add the powdered erythritol and vanilla extract, and beat again until well combined. Slowly add the heavy whipping cream and beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Prepare the Crumble Topping: In a separate bowl, mix together almond flour, melted butter, erythritol, cinnamon, and salt until it forms a crumbly texture. Set aside.
- Assemble the Jars: Begin by spooning a layer of the strawberry mixture into the bottom of each jar. Add a layer of cream cheese filling on top, followed by a spoonful of the crumble topping.
- Repeat layers until the jars are full, ending with a final sprinkle of crumble on top.
- Chill & Serve: Cover the jars and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
These jars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Feel free to substitute blueberries or raspberries for a different berry flavor.
