If you’re partial to strawberries and cream, 2025 might just be your dream year. British growers are predicting bigger, juicier strawberries than we’ve seen in years — and it’s all down to the weather.
So, What’s Causing the Size Surge?
Strawberries are fussy little things. They need warmth, moisture, and just the right amount of sunshine to thrive — and this year, they’ve got all three.
A mild winter, followed by a warm, wet spring, has created ideal conditions. The results?
- Better pollination from active bees
- Higher soil moisture for plumper fruit
- Consistent warmth that promotes sugar development without plant stress
Farmers are reporting early harvests and bumper yields — and if you’ve noticed fuller, redder berries already in your local market, you’re not imagining it.
Make the Most of the Bumper Crop
To celebrate strawberries at their peak, we’re going classic: Eton Mess. This quintessential British dessert is the ultimate showcase for ripe, juicy strawberries — and it couldn’t be easier to make.
Recipe: Classic Eton Mess
Ingredients (Serves 4):
- 300g fresh strawberries
- 2 tsp caster sugar (optional)
- 300ml double cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3–4 meringue nests (shop-bought or homemade)
- Optional: fresh mint or extra strawberries for garnish
Method:
- Prep the strawberries
Chop or slice the strawberries and place in a bowl. Sprinkle with a little caster sugar if you want to boost their sweetness. Let them sit for 10–15 minutes to macerate. - Whip the cream
In a large bowl, whip the double cream and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. - Crumble the meringue
Break the meringue nests into bite-sized chunks — some crunch, some crumb. - Assemble the mess
Gently fold the strawberries and meringue into the whipped cream. Don’t overmix — you want swirls of red, white, and texture. - Serve immediately
Spoon into glasses or bowls, and garnish with mint or a strawberry on top if you’re feeling fancy.
Strawberries this good deserve to be savoured — and Eton Mess is the kind of effortless crowd-pleaser that makes them shine. Whether you’re hosting a summer garden party or just treating yourself midweek, this is the dessert that says British summer has arrived.
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