Embrace the essence of summer with these Fried Strawberry Shortcake Pops 🍓. Imagine the sweet, juicy strawberries enveloped in a luscious layer of cream, all encased in a golden, crispy shell. It's a dance of textures and flavors that makes your taste buds sing. Perfect for outdoor picnics, these pops will be the highlight of your summer festivities. Whether you're a seasoned chef or new to the kitchen, this recipe promises a fun and delightful experience, making it impossible to have just one. So, tie on your apron, and let's create some magic together!
Indulge in the delightful combination of creamy strawberry shortcake and a crispy, fried coating with these Fried Strawberry Shortcake Pops. This unique twist on a classic dessert is perfect for summer gatherings, offering a delicious blend of textures and flavors. These popsicles are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a fun and impressive addition to any party. Follow the detailed steps below to create these delectable popsicles that are sure to be a hit with everyone.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, 1 block: Provides the rich, creamy base for the popsicles. Ensure it is softened for easy mixing.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture, creating a smooth and velvety texture.
- 1 cup heavy cream, cold: Whipped into the cream cheese mixture to create a light and airy consistency.
- 1 ½ cups strawberries, diced: Adds fresh, fruity flavor and a pop of color. Ensure they are diced small for even distribution.
- 3 cups vanilla wafer crumbs: Used to coat the popsicles, providing a crunchy texture. Crush the wafers into fine crumbs.
- 3 eggs, beaten: Acts as an egg wash to help the wafer crumbs adhere to the popsicles.
- Oil, for frying: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil.
Special Equipment:
- 6 popsicle sticks: For easy handling and serving of the popsicles.
- Popsicle mold: Essential for shaping the popsicles and ensuring they freeze properly.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Directions:
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth. This step ensures a creamy and sweet base for the popsicles.
- Pour in the cold heavy cream and beat until the mixture has reached soft peaks. This adds a light and fluffy texture to the mixture.
- Gently fold in the diced strawberries until well incorporated. The strawberries should be evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Mold the Popsicles:
- Pour the cream cheese and strawberry mixture into 6 popsicle molds, ensuring they are filled evenly.
- Insert popsicle sticks into the molds and freeze for at least 8 hours, or until fully set. This step is crucial for the popsicles to hold their shape during frying.
- Prepare the Coating:
- Place the vanilla wafers in a gallon-size freezer bag and smash with a rolling pin until the cookies have broken down into fine crumbs. This will create the crunchy coating for the popsicles.
- Once the popsicles are frozen, coat them with the beaten egg wash, then roll them in the vanilla wafer crumbs. Repeat this process for a second coating to ensure a thick, even layer.
- Freeze Again:
- Freeze the coated popsicles for another 30 minutes to set the coating. This step helps the coating adhere better during frying.
- Fry the Popsicles:
- Heat the oil to 375°F (190°C). Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature using a thermometer to achieve a crispy and golden-brown coating.
- While holding the end of the popsicle stick (or using a reliable pair of tongs), dip the popsicle into the hot oil and hold for 10 seconds. Be sure to wear heat-resistant gloves when frying the popsicles for safety.
- Immediately after removing the popsicle from the oil, pat both sides with a paper towel to absorb any excess oil.
- Freeze Until Serving:
- Freeze the fried popsicles immediately until ready to serve. This step ensures they maintain their shape and texture.
- Serve these delightful and unique treats straight from the freezer. Enjoy the crispy, creamy, and fruity goodness of each bite!
Serving Tips and Useful Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality strawberries and cream cheese will provide the best flavor and texture for your popsicles.
- Be Patient: Ensure each freezing step is followed thoroughly to maintain the integrity of the popsicles during frying.
- Wear Safety Gear: When frying the popsicles, wear heat-resistant gloves and use tongs to avoid burns. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
- Customize the Coating: Experiment with different coatings such as crushed graham crackers, cookies, or even cereal for a unique twist.
- Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve the fried popsicles immediately after frying and freezing. They are best enjoyed fresh.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one week. Allow them to thaw slightly before serving.