Fresas con Crema – Authentic Mexican Strawberries and Cream Dessert

Total Time: 15 minutes (plus optional 30 minutes chilling)
Difficulty Level: Easy

Few desserts capture the spirit of Mexican street treats quite like Fresas con Crema. This beloved classic is simple, comforting, and incredibly satisfying. Juicy red strawberries are folded into a sweet, velvety cream mixture that’s rich yet refreshing. Every bite delivers the perfect balance of fruity brightness and luscious creaminess, making it a dessert that feels both indulgent and light at the same time.

You’ll often find Fresas con Crema sold by street vendors and in local markets throughout Mexico, especially during strawberry season. Served in clear cups, the vibrant red berries peek through the creamy white mixture, creating a beautiful contrast that’s instantly inviting. The aroma of fresh strawberries combined with sweetened cream is enough to make anyone pause and savor the moment.

What makes this dessert truly special is its simplicity. It requires no baking, no complicated techniques, and only a handful of ingredients — yet the result tastes luxurious. It’s perfect for summer afternoons, family gatherings, Cinco de Mayo celebrations, or whenever you want a quick and crowd-pleasing treat. With approximately 280–350 calories per serving (depending on the type of cream used), it’s a satisfying dessert that feels celebratory without being overly heavy.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Key Ingredients for Fresas con Crema

The magic of Fresas con Crema lies in its quality ingredients. Each one contributes to the authentic flavor and signature creamy texture.

Fresh Strawberries (4 cups, sliced) – The heart of the dish. Sweet, ripe strawberries provide natural juiciness, bright color, and refreshing flavor. Choose fully red, fragrant berries for the best results.

Mexican Crema (1 cup) – Adds a slightly tangy richness and silky texture. It’s thinner than sour cream and less sweet than whipped cream, giving the dessert its authentic taste.

Heavy Cream (1/2 cup) – Enhances the smoothness and creates a luxurious mouthfeel. It balances the thickness of the crema.

Sweetened Condensed Milk (1/2 cup) – Provides sweetness and creamy body. It dissolves easily into the mixture, creating that signature velvety texture.

Evaporated Milk (1/2 cup) – Lightens the mixture slightly while maintaining creaminess. It helps achieve the perfect pourable consistency.

Granulated Sugar (1–2 tablespoons, optional) – For extra sweetness if your strawberries are slightly tart.

Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Adds warmth and depth to the cream mixture.

Fresh Orange Zest (1/2 teaspoon, optional) – Brightens the flavor and adds a subtle citrus aroma.

Pinch of Salt – Enhances sweetness and balances flavors.

Whipped Cream (for topping, optional) – Adds volume and decorative flair.

Fresh Mint Leaves (for garnish, optional) – Provides a pop of green color and freshness.

Additional Sliced Strawberries (for layering) – Creates visual appeal and texture variation.

These ingredients come together to form a smooth, pourable cream that coats every strawberry slice beautifully.

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How to Make It (Step-by-Step Method) for Fresas con Crema

Begin by washing the strawberries thoroughly under cold water. Pat them dry completely to prevent excess moisture from thinning the cream. Remove the stems and slice the strawberries into even pieces — not too thin, as you want them to maintain their juicy texture.

If your strawberries are slightly tart, sprinkle them lightly with 1–2 tablespoons of sugar and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This step helps draw out natural juices and intensifies their sweetness.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the Mexican crema, heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, and evaporated milk. Whisk gently until smooth and fully blended. The mixture should be creamy but slightly pourable — not stiff. Add the vanilla extract, orange zest (if using), and a pinch of salt. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.

Fold the sliced strawberries into the cream mixture using a spatula. Stir gently to ensure all the berries are evenly coated. The strawberries will begin to release a bit of juice, slightly tinting the cream a delicate blush color.

For best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. However, it can also be served immediately if you’re short on time.

To serve, spoon the mixture into clear cups or dessert glasses. You can create layers by adding a layer of strawberries first, then cream, then repeating. Finish with a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh mint leaf if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy every creamy, fruity spoonful.

Serving Suggestions for Fresas con Crema

Fresas con Crema is wonderfully versatile and can be presented in so many charming ways. For a traditional Mexican street-style experience, serve it in clear plastic cups with a spoon tucked inside. The layered look of strawberries and cream makes it instantly appetizing and festive. This style is perfect for birthday parties, summer barbecues, or outdoor celebrations where guests can easily grab and enjoy.

For a more elegant presentation, layer the strawberries and cream in glass parfait cups or small dessert bowls. Add a final drizzle of sweetened condensed milk on top and garnish with a whole strawberry for a refined touch. If you’re hosting a dinner party, you can even serve it alongside buttery shortbread cookies or crisp cinnamon wafers for added texture.

Another fun idea is to create a Fresas con Crema bar. Set out bowls of extra toppings such as toasted coconut flakes, mini chocolate chips, crushed graham crackers, or chopped nuts. Guests can customize their own cups, making the experience interactive and memorable.

For a refreshing summer twist, try serving the mixture slightly chilled but not overly cold, allowing the cream to stay silky and smooth. It also pairs beautifully with other fresh fruits like mango slices or blueberries for a colorful fruit medley. Whether served casually or dressed up, this dessert always feels joyful and inviting.

Storage + Meal Prep for Fresas con Crema

Fresas con Crema stores surprisingly well, making it a convenient make-ahead dessert. Transfer leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that strawberries will continue releasing juices over time, which may slightly thin the cream mixture — but the flavor remains delicious.

If preparing ahead for an event, you can slice the strawberries and prepare the cream mixture separately. Store them in individual airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Combine them just before serving to maintain the freshest texture.

Freezing is not recommended, as the dairy mixture can separate and the strawberries may become mushy once thawed. This dessert is best enjoyed fresh and chilled.

When serving leftovers, give the mixture a gentle stir to redistribute the cream evenly. You can freshen it up by adding a few newly sliced strawberries or a small splash of evaporated milk to restore its silky consistency. Adding fresh garnishes right before serving keeps it vibrant and visually appealing.

For meal prep, portion the dessert into small mason jars with lids. This makes it easy to grab from the fridge for a sweet afternoon treat. The flavors often deepen slightly overnight, making day-two servings even more delightful.

Conclusion

Fresas con Crema is a beautiful reminder that the simplest desserts are often the most memorable. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels comforting, festive, and deeply satisfying. The combination of sweet strawberries and luscious cream is timeless, offering a refreshing contrast that delights the senses.

Whether you grew up enjoying this classic Mexican treat or you’re trying it for the first time, it’s sure to become a favorite. Its vibrant colors, silky texture, and bright flavor make it perfect for warm-weather gatherings, family dinners, or spontaneous sweet cravings. Give it a try, experiment with your own toppings, and share the joy of this authentic, creamy strawberry dessert with those you love.