Name: Strawberry Chardonnay Gelee
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup water; 2 tsp unflavored gelatin; 1 1/2 cups Chardonnay (or other dry white wine); 1 tsp lemon juice; Whipped cream, for garnish; Whole or sliced strawberries, for garnish

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Elegant and light, this Strawberry Chardonnay Gelee blends fresh strawberries and crisp white wine into a delicate, fruity dessert. Topped with whipped cream and a berry garnish, it’s the perfect refreshing finale to any spring or summer meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert is a beautiful balance of simplicity and sophistication. The gelee combines the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the subtle complexity of Chardonnay, resulting in a refined and refreshing dish. Its delicate texture, vibrant color, and minimal ingredients make it ideal for entertaining or when you want something light but impressive. Serve it in individual cups or ramekins for a stunning presentation.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
granulated sugar
water
unflavored gelatin
Chardonnay (or other dry white wine)
lemon juice
whipped cream, for garnish
whole or sliced strawberries, for garnish

directions

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine chopped strawberries, sugar, and water. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries break down and release their juices.
Remove from heat and strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing gently to extract all the liquid. Discard the solids.
While the liquid is still warm, sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the top and let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom.
Stir in the Chardonnay and lemon juice, mixing thoroughly until the gelatin is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
Pour the liquid into individual glass cups or ramekins.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
Before serving, top each gelee with a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh whole or sliced strawberry.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Calories per serving: 160 kcal

Variations

Sparkling version: Substitute Chardonnay with a sparkling wine for a bubbly texture.
Berry medley: Add raspberries or blueberries for a mixed berry flavor.
Non-alcoholic option: Use white grape juice in place of wine for a kid-friendly version.
Herbal infusion: Add a sprig of fresh basil or mint while cooking the strawberries for a subtle herbal note.
Creamy layer: Add a layer of vanilla panna cotta beneath the gelee for a layered dessert.

storage/reheating

Store the gelee covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Do not freeze, as the texture may become watery. Add whipped cream and garnishes just before serving for the best presentation. This dessert does not require reheating and should be served chilled.

FAQs

Can I make this gelee ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to serve. Garnish just before serving.

What kind of wine works best?

A dry white wine like Chardonnay is ideal. Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio are also good alternatives.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, just thaw them first and drain any excess water before using.

What is blooming gelatin?

Blooming refers to letting gelatin sit in liquid for a few minutes before heating so it dissolves evenly and sets properly.

Is this dessert suitable for children?

Not in its original form due to the alcohol content. However, you can substitute white grape juice to make it non-alcoholic.

Can I use a gelatin substitute?

Yes, agar-agar can be used as a vegetarian alternative, but follow specific instructions as it behaves differently from gelatin.

How do I achieve a clear gelee?

Strain the strawberry mixture thoroughly and avoid disturbing it after pouring into cups to maintain clarity.

What can I serve this with?

It pairs beautifully with light cookies, vanilla shortbread, or fresh fruit.

How firm should the gelee be?

It should be gently set—firm enough to hold shape but delicate enough to melt in your mouth.

Can I serve it in molds?

Yes, but to unmold easily, lightly grease the molds or dip them briefly in warm water before inverting.

Conclusion

Strawberry Chardonnay Gelee is a refined, refreshing dessert that showcases the elegance of seasonal fruit and fine wine. With its silky texture and bright, clean flavors, it’s a standout addition to any warm-weather menu. Simple yet sophisticated, this dish is sure to impress guests and elevate any dining occasion.

Strawberry Chardonnay Gelee

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Author: Mia
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Elegant and light, this Strawberry Chardonnay Gelee blends fresh strawberries and crisp white wine into a delicate, fruity dessert. Topped with whipped cream and berries, it’s a refreshing finale for spring or summer meals.

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup water
2 tsp unflavored gelatin
1 1/2 cups Chardonnay (or other dry white wine)
1 tsp lemon juice
Whipped cream, for garnish
Whole or sliced strawberries, for garnish

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Instructions

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine strawberries, sugar, and water. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries break down and release their juices.
Remove from heat and strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl. Discard solids.
Sprinkle gelatin over the warm liquid and let it bloom for 5 minutes.
Stir in Chardonnay and lemon juice until fully combined and smooth.
Pour the mixture into individual glass cups or ramekins. Chill for 4 hours or until set.
Top each gelee with a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh strawberry before serving.