Strawberries! Strawberries! Strawberries!

It might surprise you to know that strawberries make a wonderful gift, thank you, cheer-me-up, and a healthy snack for children. June is strawberry month in Michigan. Festivals and events will soon serve their famous strawberry shortcake recipes. On more than one occasion, I’ve received a strawberry treat from friends and neighbors.

Early one summer evening, two neighbor girls appeared at my front door. I peeked through the peep hole and viewed sparkling eyes and smiling faces delivering a strawberry delight. I’ve never opened my door so quickly. For reasons unknown, they made a giant strawberry smoothie for me. I will always remember how refreshing it tasted and the thought behind such a kind gesture.

Just this week, I received dipped strawberries from my author friend, Deb. What a wonderful treat and pick-me-up. Not to mention they are fabulous! This delight arrived during a stressful, busy time. It’s amazing how gestures such as this can brighten a day.

My hairdresser and I were discussing strawberries last year, so I delivered a quart of local homegrown beauties to her doorstep.

I even have wild strawberries sprouting in my yard. A weed expert told me they are taking over an area where it’s difficult for grass to grow.

So many treats can be made from strawberries. Whether it’s jams, pies, smoothies, fruit salads, or healthy snacks.

I’ve experimented with different ingredients for my smoothies by using skim milk, almond milk, and maple syrup for a sugar substitute.

Enjoy strawberry month and share a special delight with someone who isn’t expecting it.

Strawberry dessert recipe from my friend, Deb.

Set oven to 350 degrees

Ingredients:

Refrigerator sugar cookie dough such as the kind in a roll

One 8 oz. package cream cheese

1 cup powdered sugar

1 quart strawberries

Directions:

Let sugar cookie dough and cream cheese set out for an hour or until soft. Grease a cookie sheet or large pizza pan then spread the cookie dough across the pan until it touches all edges. Bake in oven until lightly browned, then take out of oven and let cool. Beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar in a bowl. Once cookie dough is almost cooled, spread the cream cheese mixture across it. Place the strawberries on top, slice by slice. May eat warm or after refrigerated. Add cool whip on top for extra delight.