Fresh Ripe Berries With Chantilly Cream

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced (or fresh berries of your choice)
• 8 fluid ounces whipping cream, well chilled
• 2 tablespoons your favorite liqueur (try Madeira, Sherry, Amaretto, Grand Marnier or Limoncello)
• 2 tablespoons icing sugar, sifted (confectioner's sugar)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (or 1/2 teaspoon rose water)
• 1 cup sponge cake, cubes (optional)
• chocolate curls, to garnish (or lemon curls or sliced almonds or pink rose petals)

Directions

1. 1

   In a chilled bowl with chilled beaters, beat whipping cream until it begins to thicken.

2. 2

   Add the liqueur, icing sugar, and extract, whipping constantly until soft peaks form. Do not over-beat. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

3. 3

   Right before serving, alternately layer the fresh berries with the Chantilly cream, and the cake cubes (if using) in dessert glasses or a trifle dish.

4. 4

   Top with a dollop of whipped cream and a berry.

5. 5

   Garnish with your choice of chocolate or lemon curls, sliced almonds or pink rose petals, as desired.