The Barefoot Contessa Eton Mess Recipe is a sweet, fruity and creamy dessert. It combines fresh berries, whipped cream and crumbled meringues for a simple yet elegant treat.
This dessert is perfect for summer or any celebration. I love how easy it is to make but still feels fancy.
Many people search for how to make Barefoot Contessa Eton Mess at home because it looks impressive but requires few ingredients. With this recipe, you can enjoy a refreshing and beautiful dessert anytime.
My Experience With This Barefoot Contessa Eton Mess
I first made this dessert for a summer picnic. I wanted something fresh and quick. The mix of berries and cream smelled wonderful.
When I added the crumbled meringues, it looked colorful and inviting. Everyone loved the sweet and creamy texture. They enjoyed the mix of crisp meringue with soft cream and juicy berries.
Since then, I make this dessert often. It is now my go-to for casual summer gatherings or special celebrations.
Recipe Card Info
- Recipe Name: Barefoot Contessa Eton Mess
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Course: Dessert
- Cuisine: British-inspired
- Calories: 310 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Serving bowls or glasses
- Spoon for layering
Ingredients You Need for Barefoot Contessa Eton Mess
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 1 cup store-bought or homemade meringue cookies, crumbled
- Optional: fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
1. Whip the Cream
Pour heavy cream into a large mixing bowl. Add powdered sugar and vanilla. Beat with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
2. Prepare the Berries
Wash and dry strawberries and raspberries. Slice strawberries into small pieces. Keep raspberries whole for texture and visual appeal.
3. Crumble the Meringues
Break meringue cookies into small bite-sized pieces. Keep some larger for texture. Set aside for layering with cream and berries.
4. Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, gently fold berries into whipped cream. Add half of the crumbled meringue. Mix lightly to avoid breaking the berries.
5. Layer the Dessert
In serving glasses or bowls, layer cream, berries and meringue. Repeat layers if needed. Top with remaining meringue pieces.
6. Garnish and Serve
Optional: place a few mint leaves on top for color. Serve immediately. The dessert is best fresh for crispy meringue.
Recipe Tips
- Use fresh, ripe berries for best flavor.
- Beat cream until stiff peaks form to hold layers.
- Fold ingredients gently to avoid crushing berries.
- Serve immediately for crispy meringue texture.
- You can prepare cream and berries ahead, but add meringue before serving.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Fat | 25 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 15 g |
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dessert in small glasses or bowls for elegance. It pairs well with a hot cup of tea or coffee. A drizzle of berry sauce can add extra sweetness.
Perfect for summer parties, birthdays or casual family gatherings. Each bite combines creamy, sweet and tangy flavors for a refreshing treat.
Best Sides To Serve With
Fresh fruit salad complements this dessert well. Shortbread cookies or biscuits add crunch on the side.
You can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Light summer drinks like lemonade or sparkling water pair perfectly.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Eton Mess is best eaten fresh. Store leftover cream and berries in the refrigerator separately for up to one day.
Do not store with meringues or they will become soft. Assemble just before serving. This dessert is not suitable for freezing.
Barefoot Contessa Eton Mess Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 1 cup store-bought or homemade meringue cookies crumbled
- Optional: fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
Whip the Cream
- Pour heavy cream into a large mixing bowl. Add powdered sugar and vanilla. Beat with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
Prepare the Berries
- Wash and dry strawberries and raspberries. Slice strawberries into small pieces. Keep raspberries whole for texture and visual appeal.
Crumble the Meringues
- Break meringue cookies into small bite-sized pieces. Keep some larger for texture. Set aside for layering with cream and berries.
Combine Ingredients
- In a large bowl, gently fold berries into whipped cream. Add half of the crumbled meringue. Mix lightly to avoid breaking the berries.
Layer the Dessert
- In serving glasses or bowls, layer cream, berries and meringue. Repeat layers if needed. Top with remaining meringue pieces.
Garnish and Serve
- Optional: place a few mint leaves on top for color. Serve immediately. The dessert is best fresh for crispy meringue.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe berries for best flavor.
- Beat cream until stiff peaks form to hold layers.
- Fold ingredients gently to avoid crushing berries.
- Serve immediately for crispy meringue texture.
- You can prepare cream and berries ahead, but add meringue before serving.
Read More: Barefoot Contessa Apple Galette Recipe
FAQs about Barefoot Contessa Eton Mess
Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, but thaw and drain them first. Frozen berries may release extra juice, making the dessert watery.
Can I make my own meringue cookies?
Yes, homemade meringues work beautifully. Bake them until crisp and cool completely before crumbling into the dessert.
Is this dessert suitable for kids?
Yes, it is light and sweet. Soft whipped cream and fresh berries make it safe and enjoyable for children.
Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?
You can prepare cream and berries a few hours ahead. Add meringue only before serving to keep it crisp.
Can I use other fruits besides strawberries and raspberries?
Yes, blueberries, blackberries or peaches work well. Mix fruits for variety in flavor and color.
Conclusion
The Barefoot Contessa Eton Mess Recipe is easy, fresh and delicious. It uses simple ingredients but looks elegant.
If you want to learn how to make Barefoot Contessa Eton Mess, this recipe is perfect. With creamy whipped cream, sweet berries and crisp meringue, it is a refreshing dessert for any occasion.
Once you try it, it becomes a favorite for summer and celebrations. This dessert brings beauty, flavor and joy to any table.
Hi, I’m Emily Grace! I love cooking simple, tasty food that brings people together. On Bite Dive, I share easy recipes, fun food tips, and ideas to make every meal special. My kitchen is my happy place, and I’m so excited to share it with you!