A signal of spring in the southern US and summer in the northern US, strawberries are the sweet harbinger of warmer temperatures and longer days of sunshine soon to come. Whether enjoyed fresh, macerated, cooked in jams and jellies, or roasted, strawberries are a staple for a reason. With its sweet and almost floral aroma, bright red color, and sugary, juicy interior, this flavorful and versatile fruit turns cakes, quick breads, cookies, and more into irresistibly fresh and fruity bakes. But the strawberry requires special attention to preparation and seasonality in order to truly capture the utmost flavor.
Strawberries are the product of flowering plants in the genus, which belongs to the Rosaceae family, or rose family. Oddly enough, it’s not the commonly believed white and red flesh of the berry that is scientifically considered the fruit, but the brownish or whitish specks, called achenes, which are commonly considered seeds, that are the true fruits, each surrounding a tiny seed.
