Description
Indulge in the refreshing layers of this No-Bake Strawberry Delight, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy no-bake cheesecake, fresh strawberries, and homemade whipped cream. This easy, make-ahead dessert is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or any occasion when you crave a sweet treat without turning on the oven.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 2 lbs fresh strawberries, washed and dried
- 16 ounces full-fat cream cheese, at room temperature
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
For the Strawberry Layer:
- 2 tablespoons strawberry-flavored gelatin powder
- 1 cup diced strawberries (from the 2 lbs above)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Crust:
- Combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until evenly moistened.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch pan.
- Refrigerate while preparing the filling.
-
Prepare the Strawberries:
- Hull and slice the strawberries.
- Set aside 1 cup of the smallest pieces for the filling, reserving the rest for layering.
-
Make the Whipped Cream:
- In a chilled mixing bowl, beat heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form.
- Add powdered sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
- Set aside.
-
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Add granulated sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Gently fold in half of the whipped cream until smooth.
-
Create the Strawberry Layer:
- Take half of the cheesecake mixture and fold in the strawberry gelatin powder and the diced strawberries.
-
Assemble the Layers:
- Spread the plain cheesecake mixture over the chilled crust.
- Add a layer of sliced strawberries.
- Top with the strawberry-infused cheesecake mixture.
-
Top with Whipped Cream:
- Spread the remaining whipped cream over the top layer.
-
Chill & Serve:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Garnish with additional fresh strawberries if desired.
- Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- Fruit Alternatives: Swap strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or mixed berries.
- Crust Options: Try crushed vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits instead of graham crackers.
- Lighter Version: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and a lower-calorie whipped topping.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. Freezing is not recommended.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
