Creating a buttery strawberry shmear is an easy way to add a touch of sweetness and freshness to your desserts or toast. This creamy spread pairs wonderfully with strawberries and can elevate any breakfast or snack. Follow these simple steps to make the perfect buttery strawberry shmear.
### Ingredients
- 1 cup softened unsalted butter, at room temperature (2 sticks)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 to 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed or chopped
### Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing utensil (spatula or whisk)
- Storage container with a lid
### Step-by-Step Instructions
#### Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Begin by preparing your strawberries. If using whole strawberries, chop them into small pieces. Alternatively, you can blend them in a food processor until smooth for a purer shmear consistency.
#### Step 2: Mix the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer or stand mixer, mix on medium speed for about 1-2 minutes, until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
#### Step 3: Add Lemon Zest and Vanilla Extract
Next, add the lemon zest to the butter and sugar mixture. Continue mixing for another minute. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. This step will infuse your shmear with a subtle citrusy flavor that complements the sweetness of the strawberries beautifully.
#### Step 4: Incorporate Strawberries
Gradually mix in the pureed or chopped strawberries into the butter and sugar mixture. You can adjust the amount based on how rich you want your shmear to be; start with 1/2 cup and increase if needed. Mix until well combined, ensuring that no large chunks of strawberry remain.
#### Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Once all ingredients are mixed together, cover the bowl or transfer the mixture into a storage container with a lid. Place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least an hour before serving. This step ensures that your shmear is easier to spread and has a firmer texture.
### Storage Tips
Store any leftover buttery strawberry shmear in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to re-cover tightly after each use to keep it fresh. Freeze any extra mixture by spooning small portions into ice cube trays, then transfer them to an airtight container once frozen solid. This allows you to thaw just what you need at a later time.
### Serving Suggestions
Enjoy your buttery strawberry shmear on toast, scones, or as a topping for pancakes and waffles. It’s also delightful spread over slices of cake or used in making parfait desserts. For a twist, use it as an ingredient in fruit smoothies or mix with yogurt to create a creamy dessert dip.
By following these detailed steps, you can easily whip up this delicious buttery strawberry shmear at home and enjoy the sweet reward of your culinary skills!