Homemade strawberry milk is a delightful treat that combines fresh strawberries with creamy milk for a refreshing drink. This easy recipe captures the sweetness of ripe strawberries, making it an ideal beverage for warm days or a special breakfast. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite snacks, strawberry milk is sure to impress with its vibrant color and delicious flavor.
Ingredients
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
– 1 cup milk (whole, skim, or your preferred alternative)
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream for topping (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 2 servings, with a preparation time of 10 minutes and no cooking time required.
Nutritional Value
This nutritional information is based on one serving (1 cup) of strawberry milk:
– Calories: 150
– Protein: 4g
– Fat: 5g
– Carbohydrates: 24g
– Sugars: 20g
– Fiber: 1g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Begin by washing the strawberries thoroughly under cold water.
2. Remove the stems and hulls from the strawberries.
3. Slice the strawberries into halves or quarters for easier blending.
4. Place the sliced strawberries in a blender.
5. Add sugar to the blender to enhance the sweetness.
6. Pour in the milk of your choice (whole, almond, etc.).
7. Add the vanilla extract for extra flavor.
8. Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
9. Taste the mixture and adjust sweetness by adding more sugar if desired.
10. Pour the strawberry milk into glasses and top with whipped cream if using.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener. Use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option. Fresh strawberries can be replaced with frozen strawberries, though the texture may differ slightly.
Serving and Pairings
Strawberry milk is best served chilled and can be paired with breakfast items like pancakes, waffles, or toast. It also complements snacks such as cookies and fruit salads.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover strawberry milk in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Shake well before serving, as separation may occur. It is not recommended to freeze as it may alter the texture.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using overripe strawberries may result in an overly sweet drink.
- Not blending long enough can leave chunks of strawberries.
- Adding too much sugar can overpower the natural flavor of strawberries.
- Forgetting to hull strawberries will affect the taste and texture.
- Using warm milk can curdle the mixture; always use cold or chilled milk.
Helpful Tips
- Choose ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor.
- Experiment with different types of milk for varied taste.
- Add a pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness.
- For a thicker consistency, blend in some yogurt.
FAQs
Can I make strawberry milk in advance?
Yes, you can prepare strawberry milk in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just shake or stir before serving.
Is strawberry milk healthy?
Strawberry milk can be a healthy option when made with fresh strawberries and low-fat milk. It provides vitamins, calcium, and hydration.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Absolutely! Frozen strawberries work well, but they may make the drink slightly thicker. Just blend them directly without thawing.
How can I make it dairy-free?
You can use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk as substitutes for regular milk. The flavor will vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
What can I add for more flavor?
Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even a splash of chocolate syrup, can enhance the flavor of your strawberry milk.
Conclusion
Strawberry milk is a simple yet delightful drink that brings together the sweetness of strawberries and the creaminess of milk. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is easy to customize and enjoy. Gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a refreshing glass of homemade strawberry milk today!
Strawberry Milk
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons sugar adjust to taste
- 1 cup milk whole or alternative
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream for topping optional
Instructions
- Wash the strawberries under cold water.
- Remove the stems and hulls from the strawberries.
- Slice the strawberries into halves or quarters.
- Place the sliced strawberries in a blender.
- Add sugar to the blender.
- Pour in the milk and add the vanilla extract.
- Blend on high until smooth and creamy.
- Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
- Pour into glasses and top with whipped cream if desired.
