Mary Berry’s Lucy’s Strawberry Slices is a delightful traybake dessert inspired by a family favorite-named after her daughter Lucy. It’s the kind of treat that transports you to a sunny British garden, complete with cups of tea and a gingham tablecloth. At its core, this dessert is a layered slice that combines a buttery shortbread-style base with a luscious strawberry jam layer, fresh strawberry slices, and a dreamy topping made with whipped cream and cream cheese. It’s chilled, sliced into generous bars, and served cold, making it a refreshing and indulgent treat, especially during summer months.
What makes this recipe uniquely Mary Berry is its elegant simplicity-classic flavors, minimal fuss, and a refined touch of nostalgia. It’s great for afternoon tea, picnic gatherings, or simply when you want to show off a homemade bake that looks like it came from a patisserie.
Mary Berry’s Lucys Strawberry Slices Recipe
Ingredients Needed
This dessert is made from three key components: the base, the filling, and the topping. Here’s everything you’ll need.
For The Base
- 175g (6 oz) plain flour
- 75g (3 oz) caster sugar
- 125g (4.5 oz) butter, cold and cubed
For The Filling
- About 4-5 tbsp strawberry jam (go for a good-quality one with a strong fruity punch)
- 200g (7 oz) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
For The Creamy Topping
- 200ml (7 fl oz) double cream
- 100g (3.5 oz) full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 50g (2 oz) icing sugar, sifted
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Optional Garnish: A few extra strawberries or a light dusting of icing sugar for that picture-perfect finish.
Equipment Needed
To keep things smooth and stress-free, have these tools ready:
- Mixing bowls (at least two)
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Measuring scales and spoons
- 20cm x 30cm (8in x 12in) rectangular traybake tin
- Baking parchment or non-stick liner
- Spatula or palette knife
- Cooling rack
- Sharp knife for slicing
Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Lucys Strawberry Slices
Ready to bake? Here’s the full process, broken down step-by-step so you can follow along easily.
1. Prepare Your Tin And Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / 350°F / Gas Mark 4. Line your traybake tin with baking parchment, ensuring it comes up the sides a bit for easy removal later.
2. Make The Buttery Base
In a mixing bowl, combine flour and caster sugar. Add in the cold, cubed butter and rub it in with your fingertips (or use a pastry blender) until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs. Press this mixture evenly into the base of your prepared tin using the back of a spoon or your fingers.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s golden and firm to the touch. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely in the tin.
3. Add The Strawberry Layer
Once the base has cooled, spread a generous layer of strawberry jam across the top. You want a good coverage but not so much that it seeps down the sides. Then, arrange your sliced strawberries evenly over the jam, slightly overlapping for a lovely presentation and fruity burst in every bite.
4. Prepare The Creamy Topping
In a separate bowl, whip the double cream until soft peaks form. In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, icing sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture gently until well combined.
5. Layer And Chill
Spread the creamy topping over the strawberries using a spatula or palette knife, smoothing it out neatly. Pop the entire tray into the fridge for at least 1-2 hours, or until fully set.
6. Slice And Serve
Once chilled and firm, lift the dessert out of the tin using the parchment, and slice into squares or bars. Garnish with extra strawberries or a light dusting of icing sugar if desired.
Tips And Tricks
Here are a few insider tips to elevate your strawberry slices from delightful to divine:
- Chill the base thoroughly before adding the topping to prevent any melting or shifting.
- Use fresh, firm strawberries for the best texture and flavor. Overripe berries can make the dessert soggy.
- Don’t skip the vanilla-it adds a subtle warmth that ties the cream and fruit together beautifully.
- Try a homemade strawberry compote instead of jam for a more rustic, slightly tart contrast.
- Make ahead for easy entertaining. This dessert keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days, making it perfect for preparing in advance.
Mary Berry’s Lucy’s Strawberry Slices is everything you want in a classic British bake-light, elegant, full of fresh flavor, and deceptively easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or just want something sweet to go with your afternoon tea, these slices are guaranteed to impress. The buttery shortbread base, the bright pop of strawberries, and that cloud-like cream topping make it a standout treat for any occasion.
It’s more than just a dessert-it’s a slice of home, a memory of shared moments, and a testament to the joy of simple, beautiful baking.
Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Lucys Strawberry Slices
Mary Berry’s original recipe is a timeless classic, featuring buttery shortbread as a base, layered with strawberry jam, fresh strawberries, and a smooth custard topping. But one of the joys of home baking is the freedom to customize! Here are some easy and delightful variations to suit different tastes and dietary needs:
1. Berry Medley Slice
Why stop at strawberries? Combine a medley of fresh berries-blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries-alongside strawberries. Their varying sweetness and tartness create a beautiful depth of flavor. This not only makes the dessert more visually stunning but adds a touch of sophistication.
2. Lemon Custard Twist
Brighten things up by adding lemon zest or a touch of lemon extract to the custard layer. The citrusy tang cuts through the sweetness and pairs wonderfully with strawberries, bringing a refreshing zing to each bite.
3. Almond Shortbread Base
Swap traditional shortbread with almond flour shortbread for a nutty, aromatic twist. You can even sprinkle flaked almonds on top before the final set to add a bit of crunch and elegance.
4. Chocolate Lovers’ Dream
Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top of the slices once set-or fold mini chocolate chips into the shortbread base. Chocolate and strawberries are a romantic match, perfect for dinner parties or indulgent desserts.
5. Vegan & Dairy-Free Version
Use a plant-based butter substitute for the shortbread and replace the custard with a vegan version made from oat milk or almond milk, thickened with cornstarch and flavored with vanilla. The result is just as silky and comforting, and totally inclusive for guests with dietary restrictions.
6. Boozy Berry Slices
For adult gatherings, macerate the strawberries in a splash of elderflower liqueur, Cointreau, or strawberry liqueur before layering. The alcohol adds a grown-up depth that feels luxuriously decadent.
Storing Leftovers
Let’s be honest: leftover Lucy’s Strawberry Slices are rare. But on the off chance you manage to restrain yourself (well done, by the way), proper storage is key to preserving both texture and flavor.
1. Refrigeration
Once the slices are assembled and fully set, they should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The custard is dairy-based, and refrigeration keeps it from spoiling while maintaining its creamy consistency. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days.
2. Layering And Separation
To prevent the slices from sticking together or the custard from smearing, place a piece of parchment or wax paper between layers if stacking is necessary.
3. Freezing Advice
Freezing is not recommended for this dessert. The fresh strawberries and custard do not fare well when thawed, often turning watery or rubbery. If you must freeze the shortbread base alone, that’s doable-just freeze it before assembling and add fresh toppings after thawing.
What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Lucys Strawberry Slices?
Pairing food with Lucy’s Strawberry Slices can elevate your tea break into an occasion. Whether you’re curating a full afternoon tea spread or just want a satisfying bite on the side, here are some ideas:
1. Tea Pairings
A light, fragrant tea is perfect. Consider:
- Earl Grey – The subtle bergamot notes beautifully complement the strawberry and custard flavors.
- Chamomile – Its soft floral character won’t overpower the dessert.
- Green tea with jasmine – Adds a sophisticated aromatic touch that pairs delightfully with fruity slices.
2. Savory Balancers
Balance the sweetness with a few savory nibbles:
- Mini cucumber or egg salad sandwiches on white bread cut into dainty fingers.
- Goat cheese crostini – The tang of cheese works surprisingly well between sweet bites.
3. Light Beverages
During warmer months, serve slices with a glass of:
- Sparkling elderflower cordial
- Prosecco or rosé – Light, bubbly, and fruit-friendly!
- Lemon iced tea – Crisp and refreshing.
4. Companion Desserts
If serving as part of a larger dessert platter, try pairing with:
- Mini meringues
- Lemon bars
- Vanilla panna cotta
These options complement without overshadowing, letting Lucy’s Strawberry Slices shine as the centerpiece.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Lucy’s Strawberry Slices are more than just a dessert-they’re an ode to classic British baking, a balance of textures and flavors, and a canvas for creativity. Whether you stick faithfully to the original or experiment with personalized variations, these slices deliver charm and nostalgia in every bite. From teatime treats to showstopping additions to your dessert table, they’re as versatile as they are delicious.
So go ahead-whip up a batch, make them your own, and savor the simple joy of strawberries, custard, and shortbread in perfect harmony. And don’t forget to share… or at least pretend you were planning to.
FAQs
What Are The Main Ingredients In Mary Berry’s Lucy’s Strawberry Slices Recipe?
The key ingredients in Mary Berry’s Lucy’s Strawberry Slices include fresh strawberries, butter, sugar, flour, and eggs. The recipe also uses a combination of vanilla extract and baking powder to enhance the flavor and texture. The simplicity of the ingredients makes it an easy yet delicious dessert that is perfect for any occasion.
Can I Substitute Strawberries With Other Fruits In Mary Berry’s Lucy’s Strawberry Slices?
Yes, you can substitute strawberries with other fruits in this recipe, though it may alter the final taste and texture. You can try raspberries, blueberries, or even a mix of berries. However, it’s important to adjust the amount of sugar depending on the sweetness of the fruit you choose. If using larger fruits like peaches or plums, it’s best to chop them into smaller pieces.
How Do I Store Mary Berry’s Lucy’s Strawberry Slices After Baking?
To store Mary Berry’s Lucy’s Strawberry Slices, place them in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to extend their freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the slices, wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Frozen slices can last for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or gently warm them up in the oven.
