Fresh Strawberry Layers

This strawberry glass dessert is a summer treat that wins hearts not just through its amazing taste, but also through its pretty layered look. The mix of crunchy cookie base, creamy yogurt and skyr blend, and fresh strawberries makes a balanced dessert that's both light and filling.

The first time I whipped this up for guests, I couldn't believe how many nice things they said about such an easy treat. The clear glasses show off the pretty layers and turn this simple dessert into the star of any table.

Key ingredients

• Strawberries: They top the dessert with their natural sweetness and slight tang that brings freshness
• Yogurt and skyr: They create a smooth texture with a nice tang, while the high protein in skyr makes it filling
• Oat cookies with chocolate base: They give structure to the dessert and add a crunchy contrast to the creaminess
• Vanilla sugar: It gently flavors both the fruit and yogurt cream with its subtle taste

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Detailed steps

Making the perfect cookie base:

Put the chocolate-based oat cookies in a freezer bag and crush them with a rolling pin or the flat side of a meat tenderizer. You can also quickly blend them, but be careful not to make them too fine – keep some texture. Spread the crumbs evenly in four dessert glasses. Lightly press down with the back of a spoon to form a solid base. It should be compact but not too firm so you can easily break through it with a spoon later.

Getting the strawberries ready:

Wash the strawberries carefully under cold water and let them dry on paper towels. Choose two particularly nice strawberries for decoration and cut them in half. Hull the rest and cut them in half or quarters depending on size. Place the pieces in a bowl and gently mix them with a packet of vanilla sugar. Let them sit for about 5 minutes to release their juice and develop flavor. While waiting, make the yogurt layer.

Making the creamy yogurt layer:

In a medium bowl, mix the yogurt (3.5%) and skyr (or 0% quark) well with a whisk until smooth. Add the second packet of vanilla sugar and keep mixing. The mix should be creamy and smooth, without lumps. Spread this yogurt-skyr mix evenly over the four glasses with cookie bases. Use a spoon or small ladle to keep the glass edges clean.

Finishing and showing off your dessert:

Carefully add the soaked strawberry pieces on top of the yogurt layer. Make sure to include the strawberry juice for extra flavor. For a nice look, place the saved strawberry halves against the glass wall, cut side facing out. Put the desserts in the fridge for at least 30 minutes so flavors can mix and everything's nice and cool when you serve.

I've noticed this dessert gets the most love when the strawberries are room temp but the yogurt cream is nice and cold. This temperature contrast makes it taste even better. Plus, the dessert looks fancier when served in tall, slim glasses that show off the different layers.

Summer delight

This strawberry glass dessert perfectly captures summer in a cup. The combo of fresh seasonal strawberries and light yogurt cream makes a refreshing dessert that's easy to digest after a summer BBQ or light dinner. The oat cookies with their chocolate base add a nice sweetness and crunch without taking over. The layered look in the glass makes it a feast for the eyes, whether for a family meal or a fancy dinner with friends.

Serving ideas

This flexible dessert works for many occasions:

1. As an elegant finish to a summer menu
2. As a light refreshment after a BBQ night
3. As a sweet treat with afternoon coffee
4. As mini glasses for a dessert buffet

Possible twists

The basic recipe can be changed creatively:

1. For a more chocolatey version, sprinkle dark chocolate chips between the yogurt and strawberries
2. Add a layer of strawberry jam between the cookies and cream for stronger flavor
3. Try other berries like blueberries, raspberries or a mix of red fruits
4. For a fancier dessert, flavor with a bit of liqueur (like strawberry liqueur or Grand Marnier)

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Storage tips

The strawberry glass dessert tastes best freshly made and should be eaten the same day. In the fridge, it keeps at most until the next day, knowing that the cookie base gets softer with moisture. For the best experience, keep the desserts covered in the fridge and add final touches just before serving.

After making this dessert many times, I can tell you it's perfect for unexpected guests since it comes together fast with stuff you often have at home. The balance of freshness, creaminess and sweetness makes it a dessert that never leaves leftovers. The simple prep stands in sharp contrast to the wow factor – exactly what makes the perfect dessert for hosting!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep it a few hours before serving, but don’t do it too early so the biscuits don't go soft and the strawberries don't release too much juice. Fresh tastes best!

→ What can replace Skyr?

You can switch Skyr with Greek yogurt, plain yogurt, or even cream cheese. Each one gives a slightly different texture, but all are tasty options.

→ What other fruits go well with this?

This works with pretty much any fruit or berries. Try raspberries, blueberries, peaches, nectarines, or even a mix of berries for a twist.

→ Do I need to use vanilla sugar?

Not necessarily. Use honey, maple syrup, or even plain sugar with a hint of vanilla extract or vanilla bean seeds. Adjust the sweetness to your taste.

→ What’s a good biscuit alternative?

You can use almost any kind of biscuit – try shortbread, speculoos, amaretti, or even chocolate chip cookies. Each gives a unique flavor twist.

→ How can I make this vegan?

Swap yogurt and Skyr for plant-based alternatives like soy or coconut yogurt. Use vegan-friendly biscuits too since some contain butter or animal products.