Description
This no-bake Strawberry Cream Cheese Dessert features a creamy filling made with softened cream cheese and whipped cream, layered with sweet, macerated strawberries, all set in a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s a refreshing and delightful treat perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup of fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon of lemon juice
- 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup of powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 cup of heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon of gelatin (optional, for stability)
- 2 tablespoons of cold water (if using gelatin)
- 1 pre-made graham cracker crust (or homemade, if you prefer)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Wash the strawberries thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Hull the strawberries by removing the green tops and slice them into thin pieces.
- In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice. Toss gently to coat.
- Let the strawberries sit for about 15-20 minutes to create a delicious syrup.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese.
- Beat the cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually add in 1 cup of powdered sugar, mixing on low speed, then increase to medium until well combined.
- Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.
- If using gelatin, sprinkle 1 teaspoon over 2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl and let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom.
- Microwave the gelatin mixture for 10-15 seconds until fully dissolved, then allow it to cool slightly before adding to the cream cheese mixture.
- Mix the dissolved gelatin into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, pour in 1 cup of heavy whipping cream.
- Whip the cream on medium-high speed until soft peaks form, about 3-5 minutes.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula.
- Place the graham cracker crust on a serving plate or pie dish.
- Spoon half of the cream cheese filling into the crust, spreading it evenly.
- Add half of the macerated strawberries over the cream cheese layer.
- Repeat with the remaining cream cheese filling and then the remaining strawberries.
- Cover the dessert with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Once chilled, remove from the refrigerator.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
- Slice with a sharp knife dipped in warm water for clean cuts.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- For added crunch, consider sprinkling crushed graham crackers or nuts on top before serving.
- If you prefer a firmer texture, using gelatin is recommended.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes