Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-Bake Convenience: No need to turn on the oven; this dessert sets beautifully in the refrigerator.
- Fresh and Fruity: Loaded with fresh strawberries, offering a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Creamy Layers: The combination of cream cheese and pudding creates a luscious, cheesecake-like filling.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance for gatherings or a stress-free dessert option.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable with different fruits or flavors to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 pounds fresh strawberries, washed and sliced
- 2 sleeves graham crackers
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant cheesecake-flavored pudding mix
- 3 cups milk
- 1 carton (12 oz) whipped topping, thawed and divided
Directions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, mixing until well combined.
- Prepare the Pudding Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant cheesecake pudding mixes and milk until the mixture thickens. Gently fold in half of the whipped topping.
- Assemble the Layers:
- In a 9×13 inch dish, place a single layer of graham crackers to cover the bottom.
- Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the graham crackers.
- Add half of the pudding mixture on top of the cream cheese layer.
- Arrange a layer of sliced strawberries over the pudding mixture.
- Repeat the layers: graham crackers, remaining cream cheese mixture, remaining pudding mixture, and another layer of sliced strawberries.
- Top and Chill: Spread the remaining whipped topping over the final layer of strawberries. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld.
- Serve: Once chilled, slice into squares and serve.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 10-12 servings.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: At least 4 hours (overnight preferred)
Variations
- Fruit Options: Substitute or add other berries such as blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry version.
- Pudding Flavors: Use vanilla or white chocolate instant pudding mix instead of cheesecake flavor for a different taste.
- Graham Cracker Alternatives: Try using chocolate graham crackers or vanilla wafers for a unique twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Cover the dish with plastic wrap or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: While not recommended due to potential texture changes, if necessary, freeze tightly covered for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: This dessert is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating.
FAQs
What is an icebox cake?
An icebox cake is a no-bake dessert made by layering cookies or crackers with whipped cream or pudding. As it chills, the layers soften to a cake-like consistency.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, thaw and drain them thoroughly to remove excess moisture.
How far in advance can I make this dessert?
You can prepare this icebox cake up to 24 hours in advance. In fact, allowing it to chill overnight enhances the flavors and texture.
Can I substitute homemade whipped cream for the whipped topping?
Yes, you can use homemade whipped cream. Beat 1½ cups of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form to replace the whipped topping.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
To make this dessert gluten-free, use gluten-free graham crackers available at most grocery stores.
Can I add other fruits to this icebox cake?
Absolutely! Blueberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches make excellent additions or substitutions.
How do I prevent the graham crackers from becoming too soggy?
The graham crackers are meant to soften to a cake-like texture. To prevent them from becoming overly soggy, ensure the dessert chills for the recommended time and avoid adding excessive liquid ingredients.
What if I can’t find cheesecake-flavored pudding mix?
If cheesecake-flavored pudding mix is unavailable, vanilla or white chocolate pudding mix can be used as substitutes.
Can I make this dessert in a different-sized pan?
Yes, you can adjust the pan size; however, the thickness of the layers will vary. A 9×13 inch dish is recommended for optimal layering.
How should I serve this dessert for special occasions?
For special occasions, garnish the top with additional fresh strawberries, a drizzle of chocolate sauce,
Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 10-12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the no-bake delight of this Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake! Layered with fresh strawberries, creamy cheesecake filling, and graham crackers, this dessert is a refreshing and effortless treat for warm days or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh strawberries, washed and sliced
- 2 sleeves graham crackers
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant cheesecake-flavored pudding mix
- 3 cups milk
- 1 carton (12 oz) whipped topping, thawed and divided
Instructions
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: Beat softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth. Gradually mix in sweetened condensed milk until combined.
- Prepare Pudding Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk pudding mix with milk until thickened. Fold in half of the whipped topping.
- Assemble Layers:
- Arrange a layer of graham crackers in a 9×13 inch dish.
- Spread half the cream cheese mixture over the crackers.
- Add half the pudding mixture, then layer with sliced strawberries.
- Repeat with graham crackers, remaining cream cheese, pudding mixture, and strawberries.
- Top and Chill: Spread remaining whipped topping over the final layer of strawberries. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Serve: Slice into squares and enjoy chilled.
Notes
- Substitute strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or peaches for a different flavor profile.
- Ensure proper chilling time for the best texture and flavor.
- Use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free option.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
