Mixed Berry (dairy-free) Recipe

Thaw & Reserve

Place frozen mixed berries in a bowl and let sit at room temperature for 8–10 minutes to soften slightly but remain cold. Meanwhile, rinse fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, hull and quarter the strawberries, then set aside 1/4 cup of whole fresh berries for garnish.

After softening, drain off any excess liquid into a separate small bowl and reserve (this can be stirred back in for extra flavor if desired). Pat berries gently if needed to remove excess frost.

Combine & Purée

In a blender add the softened frozen berries and the fresh strawberries, blueberries and raspberries. Add 1/2 cup cold water, maple syrup, lemon juice and lemon zest. Blend on high until mostly smooth but with a little texture (about 30–45 seconds). If the mixture is too thick, add up to the reserved berry liquid or another tablespoon of water and pulse to combine.

Taste the purée and adjust sweetness with more maple syrup (up to 1 tbs more) or lemon juice if it needs more brightness.

Mix Cream Base

In a medium bowl or in the blender cup, whisk together coconut milk, almond milk and vanilla extract until smooth and slightly emulsified. If you want a lighter texture, use only 1/2 cup coconut milk and 1/2 cup almond milk.

If using chia seeds for a thicker, jammy texture, stir them into the puréed berries now and let sit 8–10 minutes for seeds to swell (stir once midway).

Layer or Swirl

For individual servings, spoon about 2–3 tablespoons of the coconut cream into the bottom of each glass or bowl. Add 1/3–1/2 cup berry purée on top and then another 1–2 tablespoons of cream. Use a spoon or skewer to gently swirl for a marbled look. Alternatively, fully fold the cream into the purée for a uniform, smoothie-like consistency.

Top with toasted almonds or granola for crunch, the reserved whole berries and a mint leaf for garnish.

Serve immediately if you prefer a chilled, spoonable dessert. If you prefer it slightly firmer, refrigerate assembled portions for 15–20 minutes to let chia swell further and flavors meld. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; stir before serving.