Mary Berry Lucys Strawberry Slices Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a delightful and easy-to-make dessert, Mary Berry’s Lucy’s Strawberry Slices are an absolute must-try!

These delicious, fruit-packed slices are the perfect combination of a buttery biscuit base, creamy filling, and fresh, juicy strawberries that make every bite irresistible. Not only do they look stunning, but they are also a treat for the taste buds, striking the ideal balance of sweetness and tang. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something fruity and refreshing, this recipe is sure to impress and quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Mary Berry Lucys Strawberry Slices Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Lucy’s Strawberry Slices, you’ll need a selection of simple yet delicious ingredients that come together to create a dessert that’s bursting with fruity flavor and sweetness. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need:

1. Butter – The foundation of any great base for a slice or a cake is butter. It provides richness and helps create a smooth, soft texture in the dough. You’ll need around 200 grams (about 7 ounces) of unsalted butter, softened for ease of mixing.

2. Caster Sugar – Caster sugar, also known as superfine sugar, is a great choice for baking because it dissolves easily and creates a smoother texture in your baked goods. You’ll need about 100 grams (around ½ cup) of caster sugar to sweeten the base.

3. Plain Flour – For the base of the strawberry slices, plain (or all-purpose) flour is used to create a sturdy yet tender foundation. You’ll require approximately 200 grams (1¾ cups) of plain flour to ensure the slice holds together nicely when cut.

4. Baking Powder – This leavening agent helps the dough rise just enough, giving it a slightly airy and crumbly texture. A teaspoon of baking powder is all you need to add that lightness.

5. Egg – One large egg is used to bind the ingredients together and add a little extra richness and structure to the dough.

6. Vanilla Extract – A teaspoon of vanilla extract enhances the flavor profile, providing a comforting, subtle sweetness that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

7. Fresh Strawberries – The star of this recipe, fresh strawberries are sliced to form a juicy, vibrant topping for the slices. You’ll need about 300 grams (roughly 2 cups) of strawberries, depending on their size and how much you want to pile on top.

8. Icing Sugar – For a finishing touch, a dusting of icing sugar (powdered sugar) is optional but adds a touch of elegance and sweetness to the completed dish.

These ingredients combine to form a simple, balanced base that showcases the fresh strawberries and creates a delightful, refreshing treat.

Equipment Needed

When it comes to making Mary Berry’s Lucy’s Strawberry Slices, the right tools make the job easier and help achieve perfect results. Here’s what you’ll need in terms of equipment:

1. Mixing Bowls – A medium to large mixing bowl for combining your butter, sugar, flour, and other dry ingredients, and a separate smaller bowl to crack and beat the egg. This allows for easy mixing and ensures everything blends evenly.

2. Electric Mixer or Whisk – While a hand whisk can work, an electric mixer will speed up the process and ensure your butter and sugar are creamed together smoothly, creating a light and fluffy mixture. If you don’t have an electric mixer, you can always use a wooden spoon and some elbow grease!

3. Measuring Cups and Spoons – Accuracy in measurements is key to ensuring the perfect consistency and texture. Measuring cups for the flour and caster sugar and teaspoons for smaller ingredients like baking powder and vanilla extract will be essential.

4. Knife and Chopping Board – You’ll need a sharp knife to slice the strawberries evenly. A chopping board is ideal for safety and precision.

5. 9-inch Square Baking Tin or Tray – This is where the magic happens!

   A square baking tin is perfect for achieving the right proportions and ensuring that the slices cook evenly. You can line the tin with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.

6. Cooling Rack – Once the slices are baked, they’ll need to cool to room temperature before being cut into squares. A cooling rack ensures even cooling and helps prevent sogginess by allowing air to circulate around the slices.

7. Sifter – For the optional icing sugar dusting, a fine-mesh sifter will ensure the sugar is evenly distributed over the top of the slices, giving them that professional finish.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Lucy’s Strawberry Slices

Making Mary Berry’s Lucy’s Strawberry Slices is straightforward and fun. The process is broken down into clear steps that result in a mouthwatering dessert that looks as good as it tastes. Here’s how to bring it all together:

1. Prepare The Oven And Tin

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C (325°F) for fan-assisted ovens. Line a 9-inch square baking tin with parchment paper, allowing a little overhang so you can easily lift the baked slices out once they’re done.

2. Make The Base

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This can take a couple of minutes with an electric mixer. Once well combined, add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.

Sift the plain flour and baking powder into the bowl, and gently fold them into the wet ingredients using a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix until everything is just combined, ensuring no lumps of flour remain. The dough will be quite thick.

3. Press The Dough Into The Tin

Transfer the dough into your prepared baking tin. Using your hands or the back of a spoon, gently press the dough into an even layer, covering the entire base of the tin. The thickness should be uniform.

4. Add The Strawberries

Slice your fresh strawberries thinly and arrange them on top of the dough in an even layer. You can arrange them in a circular pattern or in rows, depending on your preference. Make sure the slices are slightly overlapping to create a beautiful, colorful topping.

5. Bake The Slices

Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the base is golden brown and firm to the touch. The strawberries will soften and release their juices, creating a lovely fruit topping. Keep an eye on it, as ovens can vary.

6. Cool And Serve

Once baked, remove the tin from the oven and place it on a cooling rack. Let it cool completely before lifting it out using the parchment paper overhang. Slice into squares or rectangles, dust with icing sugar (if desired), and serve.

Expert Tips

To ensure your Lucy’s Strawberry Slices come out perfectly every time, consider these expert tips:

1. Use Room Temperature Butter – Softened butter blends more easily with sugar, resulting in a smoother batter. If your butter is too hard, it may cause lumps in your mixture.

2. Don’t Overmix – When adding the flour, mix just until combined to avoid overworking the dough. Overmixing can lead to a tough base rather than a crumbly, light one.

3. Berry Substitutes – While strawberries are the star of this recipe, feel free to experiment with other berries, like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries. A mixed berry topping could also add an exciting burst of flavor.

4. Bake Evenly – If you’re using a fan-assisted oven, be mindful of hot spots. It’s always a good idea to rotate your tin halfway through baking to ensure even heat distribution.

5. Serving Suggestions – These slices are wonderful on their own, but you can serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

6. Storage – If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Alternatively, you can freeze them for longer storage; just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.

Mary Berry’s Lucy’s Strawberry Slices are a true celebration of summer’s finest fruits. This simple yet indulgent dessert brings together a buttery, crumbly base topped with vibrant, juicy strawberries and finished with a light dusting of icing sugar.

It’s the perfect treat to bake when you want something quick, refreshing, and visually stunning. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, enjoying a family afternoon, or simply craving something sweet, these slices will never disappoint.

With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of time, you’ll create a memorable dessert that highlights the natural beauty of strawberries in the most delightful way. Happy baking!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Lucy’s Strawberry Slices

Mary Berry’s Lucy’s Strawberry Slices are a delightful, fresh dessert that highlights the sweet-tart flavors of strawberries in a way that feels both indulgent and refreshing. But while the classic recipe is already a treat on its own, there are plenty of easy variations that can elevate or change the flavor profile to suit different preferences or occasions.

1. Raspberry or Mixed Berry Slices: For a twist on the strawberry base, try swapping out the strawberries with fresh raspberries or a mixture of mixed berries. Raspberries offer a slightly tangy note that complements the sweetness of the other ingredients. If you’re feeling adventurous, a combination of blackberries, blueberries, and strawberries will create a colorful, vibrant slice that’s perfect for summer gatherings.

2. Citrus-Infused Slices: Add a zesty citrus twist by incorporating lemon or orange zest into the cream filling. This addition can provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the fruit and elevate the overall freshness of the dessert. You could also squeeze a little fresh lemon or orange juice into the cream mixture for extra citrusy goodness.

3. Chocolate Strawberries Slices: For a richer flavor, melt some dark chocolate and drizzle it over the top of the strawberry slices. Alternatively, you can fold small chunks of chocolate into the cream mixture for a decadent bite. The bitterness of the dark chocolate pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the strawberries and the cream.

4. Vegan or Dairy-Free Version: For those who are lactose intolerant or following a vegan diet, it’s easy to make this dessert dairy-free. Use a dairy-free whipped cream substitute or coconut cream to achieve the same light, fluffy texture. Swap out any butter in the crust for a plant-based butter or coconut oil. The result is a creamy, satisfying treat that everyone can enjoy.

5. Nutty Crust: Add some texture to the base by incorporating ground almonds, pecans, or walnuts into the crust. This will not only add a nutty flavor but also give the dessert a bit of crunch. You can also toast the nuts lightly before adding them to enhance their flavor profile.

6. Caramelized Strawberries: For a more complex flavor, try caramelizing the strawberries before adding them to the dessert. To do this, heat a little sugar in a pan until it melts and turns golden, then toss in the strawberries and cook them gently until they soften and release their juices. This adds a rich, caramel flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.

7. Flavored Cream: Instead of using just plain whipped cream, experiment with flavored extracts. A teaspoon of vanilla, almond, or even coconut extract in the cream will give the dessert an extra layer of flavor. For an extra indulgence, you could even fold in some mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt for added richness and tang.

By making these simple adjustments, you can personalize Mary Berry’s Lucy’s Strawberry Slices to fit different tastes, dietary needs, and occasions. Whether you’re craving something richer, fruitier, or more citrus-forward, there’s a variation that’s sure to impress.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Mary Berry’s Lucy’s Strawberry Slices are so delicious that you may find yourself with a few leftovers. While it’s always tempting to finish off the entire batch in one sitting, storing any remaining slices properly ensures they maintain their delicious taste and texture for the next day. Here are some best practices for storing those precious leftovers:

1. Refrigeration is Key: Since the slices contain fresh cream and fruit, it’s important to store them in the fridge. Wrap the slices in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container to prevent the crust from getting soggy and to protect the cream filling from absorbing any unwanted odors from the fridge. The cold temperature will also help maintain the freshness of the strawberries.

2. Storage Duration: These strawberry slices are best enjoyed within 2-3 days after they’ve been made. The strawberries and cream can lose their texture and freshness over time, so it’s ideal to finish them off within a short window. While the dessert can last up to 5 days in the fridge, the quality tends to deteriorate after the third day.

3. Avoid Freezing: Freezing strawberry slices is generally not recommended. The texture of both the fruit and the cream filling may change after thawing, leading to a soggy crust and watery filling. The cream may also lose its light, airy texture, resulting in a less enjoyable dessert.

4. Serving Leftovers: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, it’s best to let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld and bring back some of the dessert’s original richness and creaminess. However, make sure not to leave the slices out for too long, as the whipped cream may begin to soften too much.

By storing your leftovers properly, you’ll ensure that every bite of Mary Berry’s Lucy’s Strawberry Slices stays as delicious as when they were first made!

What Goes Well With Lucy’s Strawberry Slices

While Mary Berry’s Lucy’s Strawberry Slices are a delightful stand-alone dessert, pairing them with complementary foods or drinks can enhance the experience even further. Here are some great ideas for what goes well with this fresh, fruity treat:

1. Light Beverages: A chilled glass of Prosecco, champagne, or a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Moscato complements the sweetness of the strawberry slices without overpowering them. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, consider pairing the dessert with sparkling water or a refreshing iced tea (perhaps a lemon or berry-infused variety).

2. Ice Cream or Sorbet: A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a berry sorbet would work beautifully with the strawberry slices. The creamy ice cream adds a rich contrast to the lightness of the strawberry-filled dessert, while a sorbet can bring even more fruitiness to the table.

3. Whipped Cream or Custard: For an extra indulgent treat, add a dollop of freshly whipped cream or pour a little vanilla custard alongside the strawberry slices. The velvety smoothness of whipped cream or the richness of custard enhances the dessert’s texture and flavor profile.

4. Fresh Mint or Basil: Fresh herbs like mint or basil can serve as a light, aromatic garnish. The coolness of mint can bring out the freshness of the strawberries, while basil offers a slightly sweet, peppery contrast that works well with the dessert’s creaminess. A few fresh leaves on top or as a side garnish add a delightful touch.

5. Shortbread or Biscotti: For a bit of crunch and texture, serve the strawberry slices with some buttery shortbread cookies or Italian biscotti. The crispness of these cookies contrasts nicely with the soft cream and tender strawberries.

6. Cheese Platter: If you’re hosting a more elaborate gathering, a cheese platter can be a great accompaniment. Soft cheeses like Brie or goat cheese have a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the strawberries, while a sharper cheese like a Manchego can offer an intriguing contrast.

By pairing Mary Berry’s Lucy’s Strawberry Slices with some of these delightful accompaniments, you create a complete and well-rounded experience that elevates the enjoyment of the dessert.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Lucy’s Strawberry Slices are an easy-to-make, refreshing dessert that captures the essence of summer in every bite. The light, creamy filling paired with the fresh strawberries and buttery crust creates a delicious balance of flavors and textures that is sure to impress guests or satisfy a personal craving for something sweet.

By experimenting with easy variations, like adding different fruits, spices, or a chocolatey touch, you can customize the recipe to fit your taste and make it your own. Properly storing any leftovers will help maintain their freshness for a few days, ensuring that you can enjoy this treat even after the party is over.

And when it comes to pairing, there are so many delightful options, from crisp white wines to creamy custard, making this dessert an ideal centerpiece for any occasion. Whether served for a casual gathering or a special celebration, Mary Berry’s Lucy’s Strawberry Slices are a timeless and versatile dessert that everyone can enjoy.

FAQs

What Are Lucy’s Strawberry Slices In Mary Berry’s Recipe?

Lucy’s Strawberry Slices are a delightful, light, and refreshing dessert made with a buttery shortbread base, topped with a creamy strawberry filling, and finished with a layer of fresh strawberries. They are perfect for summer gatherings or as a treat with afternoon tea.

How Long Does It Take To Prepare Lucy’s Strawberry Slices?

The preparation time for Mary Berry’s Lucy’s Strawberry Slices is approximately 20 minutes, while the total time for the recipe including chilling and setting can be around 2 hours.

Can I Make Lucy’s Strawberry Slices Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare Lucy’s Strawberry Slices a day or two in advance. After making them, simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.

What Ingredients Do I Need For Mary Berry’s Lucy’s Strawberry Slices?

To make Lucy’s Strawberry Slices, you will need butter, flour, sugar, baking powder, eggs, vanilla extract, fresh strawberries, and double cream. The shortbread base is simple and the strawberry topping adds a fresh burst of flavor.

Can I Substitute The Fresh Strawberries In Lucy’s Strawberry Slices?

If fresh strawberries aren’t available, you can use frozen strawberries that have been thawed and drained. However, fresh strawberries give the dessert a better texture and flavor.

How Do I Store Lucy’s Strawberry Slices?

Once prepared, Lucy’s Strawberry Slices should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them cool and fresh. This will also help maintain the texture of the shortbread base.

Can I Use A Different Fruit Instead Of Strawberries?

Yes, you can try different fruits such as raspberries, blackberries, or even mixed berries. However, keep in mind that the sweetness and texture may vary slightly depending on the fruit you choose.

How Do I Ensure The Shortbread Base Doesn’t Get Too Crumbly?

To ensure the shortbread base holds together properly, make sure you use cold butter and mix the dough until it just comes together. Overworking the dough can make it too crumbly.

Can I Make Lucy’s Strawberry Slices Gluten-free?

Yes, you can make these slices gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure the other ingredients, like baking powder and cream, are also gluten-free.

How Do I Serve Mary Berry’s Lucy’s Strawberry Slices?

Lucy’s Strawberry Slices are best served chilled, cut into squares or slices. They make a great addition to a summer picnic, a garden party, or as a light dessert after a meal. Garnishing with extra fresh strawberries or a dollop of whipped cream is also a nice touch.