Experience the perfect summer dessert with this Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake. This no-bake delight features layers of luscious cream cheese filling, fresh strawberries, and soft graham crackers that absorb all the flavors. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for picnics, potlucks, or family gatherings. Serve it chilled for a refreshing treat that melts in your mouth!
Ingredients:
- For the Cake:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 package (14 oz) graham crackers (about 16 full sheets)
- For the Topping:
- Additional sliced strawberries (for garnish)
- Optional: mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
- In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well blended.
- Layer the Cake:
- In a 9×13 inch baking dish, lay down a single layer of graham crackers, breaking them as needed to fit.
- Spread half of the cream cheese filling over the graham crackers, smoothing it out with a spatula.
- Evenly distribute half of the sliced strawberries over the filling.
- Repeat the Layers:
- Add another layer of graham crackers on top of the strawberries.
- Spread the remaining cream cheese filling over the second layer of graham crackers.
- Top with the remaining sliced strawberries.
- Final Touch:
- Finish with a final layer of graham crackers on top.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This allows the flavors to meld and the graham crackers to soften.
- Serve:
- Before serving, you can garnish with additional sliced strawberries and mint leaves for a fresh touch.
- Cut into squares and enjoy your refreshing Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake!
Tips:
- For added flavor, consider mixing in a bit of lemon zest into the cream cheese filling.
- This cake can be prepared a day in advance, making it perfect for busy schedules.
- Feel free to experiment with other fruits, like blueberries or raspberries, for a mixed berry version!
Enjoy this easy and delicious Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake as a delightful treat for any occasion!