I have a delightful treat to share with you today – Coconut Strawberry Shortcake Bites! These little gems are the embodiment of one of my favorite summer desserts, with a refreshing twist that makes them feel oh-so-exotic. Whenever I invite friends over for a get-together, these bites consistently steal the show. The combination of the sweet strawberries with the creamy coconut just dances on your taste buds—it’s simply divine!
I still remember the first time I made these coconut strawberry shortcake bites. It was a sunny afternoon, and I was looking for a light dessert that wouldn’t weigh us down, given that we were already stuffed from a barbecue. Once I unveiled my creation, there was a chorus of “wow!” and “yum!” from my friends—so much joy packed into these little bites. They always remind me of carefree summer days, laughter, and good company. So, let me take you through this delightful recipe!
What’s in Coconut Strawberry Shortcake Bites?
Coconut Cream: This is the star of the show! I recommend using full-fat coconut cream for that luscious, rich texture that pairs perfectly with the strawberries. You can either buy it in a can or whip up some fresh coconut cream if you’re feeling ambitious.
Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries are a must for this recipe. Their natural sweetness balances out the rich coconut cream wonderfully. Choose berries that are firm and vibrant for the best results.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla extract adds an extra layer of flavor. It’s amazing how much a little vanilla can make a difference!
Angel Food Cake: The light and airy texture of angel food cake is a perfect match for the coconut cream and strawberries. You can make your own or buy a pre-made loaf from the store—whatever works best for you!
Coconut Flakes: Unsweetened shredded coconut adds a nice texture and enhances that coconut flavor. Toasting them lightly in the oven brings out their nuttiness and makes it even more delightful.
Is Coconut Strawberry Shortcake Bites Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about the health aspects of these tasty bites! They’re definitely on the lighter side compared to some traditional desserts, but here’s the scoop:
Coconut Cream: While it’s delicious, keep in mind it’s high in calories and fat. It’s good fat, but if you’re watching your intake, you might want to enjoy these bites in moderation.
Strawberries: These berries are a nutritional powerhouse! They are low in calories and high in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber. Plus, they add a refreshing sweetness that you’ll love.
Angel Food Cake: It’s a light cake option that’s relatively low in fat. However, if you want a healthier twist, consider a sponge cake made with almond flour or a gluten-free alternative for a friendlier carb count.
Overall, I think these bites deserve a spot in your dessert lineup—just savor them mindfully!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup full-fat coconut cream
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 store-bought angel food cake (or homemade, if you prefer)
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (toasted)
*This recipe serves about 8 people, depending on how generous you are with servings!*
How to Make Coconut Strawberry Shortcake Bites?
1. **Prepare the Coconut Cream**: In a mixing bowl, whip the coconut cream using an electric mixer until it’s light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and whip a bit more to combine.
2. **Slice the Angel Food Cake**: Cut the angel food cake into small bite-sized cubes or disks—about 1 inch each.
3. **Assemble the Bites**: On a serving plate, place a piece of angel food cake as the base. Top it with a dollop of the whipped coconut cream.
4. **Add Strawberries**: Place a few slices of fresh strawberries on top of the coconut cream.
5. **Finish with Coconut Flakes**: Sprinkle a bit of the toasted coconut flakes over everything for a delightful crunch.
6. **Repeat**: Keep assembling the bites until you’ve used up all your ingredients.
7. **Chill & Serve**: Allow the bites to chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving, so they stay nice and cool.
Sweet Tips for Your Coconut Strawberry Shortcake Bites!
– Feel free to experiment with other fruits! Raspberries, blueberries, or mango slices work beautifully too.
– For a delightful adult twist, consider drizzling a bit of honey or a splash of liqueur over the berries.
– If you want to make it gluten-free, just ensure that the angel food cake is gluten-free or switch it to a coconut flour pancake base instead.
– Serve these bites with extra berries on the side for a pop of color and flavor.
I genuinely hope you give these Coconut Strawberry Shortcake Bites a try—you won’t be disappointed! Whether it’s a summer picnic, a potluck, or just a fancy weekday treat, I promise these little gems will bring smiles and satisfied tummies. After you’ve made them, I’d love to hear how it went—did your friends swoon over them like mine? Happy cooking!