Discover this elegant, melt-in-your-mouth dessert that requires no gelatin, eggs, or baking! These beautiful two-toned squares combine a vibrant berry layer with a silky vanilla cream layer, all dusted in tropical coconut for an impressive yet easy-to-make treat.
Ingredients
Berry Layer
- 450g (16 oz) fresh or frozen strawberries (or mixed berries)
- 40g (3 tablespoons) sugar
- 45g (⅓ cup) cornstarch
- 50-60ml (3-4 tablespoons) water
Vanilla Cream Layer
- 450ml (1¾ cups) heavy cream (15-20% fat)
- 50g (¼ cup) sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 45g (⅓ cup) cornstarch
For Coating
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- ½ cup desiccated coconut
- Vegetable oil for greasing
Instructions
- Prepare the Berry Layer
- Combine berries and sugar in a saucepan
- Heat until berries release juice
- Strain to remove seeds
- Mix cornstarch with water until smooth
- Add to berry mixture
- Cook 3-5 minutes until thickened, stirring constantly
- Create the Mold
- Lightly grease 15x15cm (6×6 inch) pan
- Pour berry mixture
- Allow to cool completely
- Make Vanilla Layer
- Combine cream, sugar, and vanilla in saucepan
- Mix cornstarch with a small amount of cold cream
- Add to cream mixture
- Cook 3-5 minutes until thickened, stirring constantly
- Pour over cooled berry layer
- Setting
- Refrigerate 2-3 hours or until firm
- Cut into 2.5cm (1 inch) squares
- Roll in cornstarch-coconut mixture
Nutritional Information
(Per square – makes 36 squares)
- Calories: 65
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 4g
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Setting Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
Pro Tips and Tricks
- Use room temperature cream for smoother mixing
- Strain hot berry mixture for silkier texture
- Chill knife between cuts for clean edges
- Use ruler for even squares
- Keep squares chilled until serving
Variations and Substitutions
- Try different berries (raspberries, blackberries)
- Add white chocolate to cream layer
- Use almond extract instead of vanilla
- Roll in powdered sugar instead of coconut
- Add food coloring for vibrant layers
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why won’t my squares set?
A: Ensure proper cornstarch ratio and cooking time
Q: Can I use frozen berries?
A: Yes, thaw and drain excess liquid first
Q: How long do these keep?
A: Up to 5 days refrigerated
Q: Can I make these sugar-free?
A: Yes, use your preferred sweetener
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Store in airtight container in refrigerator
- Place parchment between layers
- Can be made up to 3 days ahead
- Don’t freeze – texture will change
- Keep chilled until serving
These delicate berry and cream squares offer a perfect balance of fruity and creamy flavors, wrapped in a light coconut coating. Their elegant appearance makes them perfect for special occasions, while their simple preparation means you can enjoy them anytime. A delightful treat that proves sophisticated desserts don’t need complicated ingredients or techniques.
