There’s something magical about a perfectly risen soufflé — airy, delicate, and just a little bit fancy. Our Strawberry Soufflé with Vanilla Bean Crème Anglaise hits all those notes, with a vibrant burst of fresh strawberry flavor paired with a silky, fragrant vanilla sauce. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a light vegan dessert that feels indulgent without being heavy, this recipe is a total showstopper.
🍓 Why We’re Head Over Heels for Strawberry Soufflé
Strawberries are our favorite seasonal treat, and turning them into a soufflé feels like a celebration of their sweet, summery goodness. The soufflé itself is surprisingly easy to make, but it looks like a masterpiece on the table — perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special.
Vanilla Bean Crème Anglaise: The Ultimate Complement
The crème anglaise is what takes this dessert to the next level. Made with real vanilla beans and plant-based milk, it’s silky smooth and rich in flavor, without being overly sweet. Drizzling this over the light strawberry soufflé is like adding the perfect finishing touch to a work of art.
A Little Kitchen Story: How This Dessert Became Our Favorite
We first made this recipe on a sunny afternoon when friends stopped by unexpectedly. With just a few fresh strawberries on hand, we decided to experiment with a classic French dessert — and to our delight, it turned out beautifully! Since then, it’s been our go-to when we want something elegant but fuss-free.
Pro Tip: Timing Is Everything
Soufflés wait for no one! We recommend having your vanilla bean crème anglaise ready before you pop the soufflé in the oven. That way, it’s all warm and inviting the moment you take your dessert out, making the experience truly unforgettable.
🌸 Vegan Desserts Can Be Light and Luxurious
One of the best things about this recipe? It proves you don’t need heavy creams or eggs to get that classic soufflé texture. Using plant-based ingredients keeps it light, airy, and perfect for vegan diets — without sacrificing any of that rich, luxurious flavor.
How to Impress Your Guests (or Yourself!)
Presentation is key. Serve your soufflé straight from the oven with a generous pour of crème anglaise. Garnish with a fresh strawberry or two, maybe a sprig of mint, and watch the smiles light up the room. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a celebration in every bite.
🍓 Quick Serving Suggestion: Pair With a Sparkling Rosé or Fresh Herbal Tea
If you’re looking to elevate your dessert moment, a chilled sparkling rosé or a fragrant herbal tea complements the fresh strawberry and vanilla flavors beautifully — perfect for brunches, dinner parties, or a romantic night in.
We hope this Strawberry Soufflé with Vanilla Bean Crème Anglaise brings a touch of elegance and sweetness to your vegan dessert repertoire. It’s light, luscious, and so worth the little bit of extra effort.
Here’s to sweet moments and plant-based indulgence! 🍓🍰🌿
Ingredients
For the Strawberry Soufflé:
- 250 g fresh strawberries pureed
- 4 large egg whites room temperature
- 100 g caster sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Butter and caster sugar for preparing ramekins
For the Vanilla Bean Crème Anglaise:
- 250 ml whole milk
- 1 vanilla bean split and scraped
- 3 large egg yolks
- 50 g caster sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract optional
Instructions
Prepare the Ramekins:
- Butter four ramekins generously, then coat with caster sugar. Set aside.
Make the Soufflé Base:
- Puree strawberries until smooth. Add lemon juice.
Whip Egg Whites:
- In a clean bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar while continuing to beat until stiff, glossy peaks form.
Combine:
- Gently fold the strawberry puree into the egg whites, careful to keep the mixture airy.
Fill Ramekins:
- Spoon the mixture into prepared ramekins, filling nearly to the top. Smooth the surface.
Bake:
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Bake soufflés for 12-15 minutes until risen and lightly golden on top.
Make Crème Anglaise:
- Heat milk with vanilla bean and seeds until just boiling. Remove from heat.
- In a bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale. Slowly pour hot milk into yolks, whisking continuously. Return mixture to low heat, stirring constantly until thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Do not boil. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract if using. Cool slightly.
Serve Immediately:
- Serve soufflés hot, with warm vanilla bean crème anglaise poured over or on the side.
Notes
- Soufflés are best enjoyed immediately after baking as they deflate quickly.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
- To make a vegan version, consider aquafaba for the soufflé base and coconut milk custard as a substitute.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Strawberry Soufflé with Vanilla Bean Crème Anglaise
What makes this strawberry soufflé special?
This soufflé is a delightful twist on the classic French dessert. By incorporating fresh strawberry purée into the soufflé base, it infuses the dish with a natural sweetness and vibrant color, making it both visually appealing and delicious.
How do I achieve the perfect soufflé rise?
To ensure your soufflé rises beautifully, it’s crucial to properly prepare your ramekins. Butter them thoroughly and coat them with sugar, tapping out any excess. This technique helps the soufflé climb the sides evenly as it bakes.
Can I make the crème anglaise ahead of time?
Absolutely! Crème anglaise can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To prevent a skin from forming, place plastic wrap directly on the surface of the sauce. Reheat gently before serving if desired.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
While fresh strawberries are recommended for their flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are unavailable. Ensure they are thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the soufflé mixture.
Is this dessert suitable for special occasions?
Yes, this strawberry soufflé with vanilla bean crème anglaise is an elegant and impressive dessert, perfect for special occasions like Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day, or a celebratory dinner. Its light texture and refined flavors make it a memorable end to any meal.
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