Why Make This Recipe
No Bake Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake is a delightful dessert that is both easy to make and delicious. This treat is perfect for warm days when you don’t want to turn on the oven. With fresh strawberries and a creamy mixture, it’s light and refreshing. Plus, it comes together quickly and can be prepared ahead of time, making it a great choice for gatherings or family dinners.
How to Make No Bake Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, washed and sliced
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 14 oz graham crackers
- Optional: additional sliced strawberries for garnish
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, being careful not to deflate it.
- Add the lemon zest to the cream mixture and mix gently to incorporate the flavor.
- To assemble the cake, spread a thin layer of the cream mixture at the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish.
- Arrange a single layer of graham crackers on top, breaking them if necessary to fit.
- Continue layering the cream mixture, strawberries, and graham crackers, finishing with a layer of the cream mixture on top. Smooth out the top layer for a clean finish.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, garnish the cake with additional sliced strawberries.
- Slice and enjoy!
How to Serve No Bake Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake
Serve the cake chilled for the best taste. Slice it into squares or rectangles and place each piece on a plate. You can add a dollop of whipped cream or more fresh strawberries on top for an extra special touch.
How to Store No Bake Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator. Cover the cake well with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. It can last up to three days in the fridge.
Tips to Make No Bake Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Use fresh strawberries during their peak season for the best flavor.
- If you want a bit of crunch, you can add crushed nuts in between the layers.
- Letting the cake sit overnight gives the flavors time to meld together beautifully.
Variation
You can switch up the fruit by using blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches instead of strawberries. Each fruit adds its own unique flavor to the cake.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
2. How long does it take to set?
Refrigerating for at least 4 hours is necessary, but overnight is ideal for the best texture.
3. Can I add a crust instead of graham crackers?
Yes, you can use a cookie crust made from your favorite cookies or even crushed pretzels for a salty-sweet twist.