Refreshing Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake

Refreshing Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake

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Indulge in the delightful layers of this Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake, where creamy, tangy cream cheese meets the sweetness of fresh strawberries and the satisfying crunch of graham crackers. This no-bake dessert is perfect for warm days, easy to prepare, and makes for an impressive centerpiece at any gathering. Each slice is a celebration of summer flavors, making it a favorite for picnics, barbecues, or simply a sweet treat at home.

Ingredients:

For the Cream Cheese Mixture:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream

For the Strawberry Layer:

  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

For Assembly:

  • 1 package (14.4 oz) graham crackers
  • Additional strawberries for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Strawberries:
    • In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Stir gently to coat the strawberries in the sugar and lemon. Let the mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes until the strawberries release some of their juices.
  2. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture:
    • 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 well combined.
    • In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
    • Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined and fluffy.
  3. Assemble the Cake:
    • In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture on the bottom.
    • Place a single layer of graham crackers over the cream cheese mixture.
    • Spread half of the remaining cream cheese mixture over the graham crackers.
    • Add half of the macerated strawberries on top of the cream cheese layer.
    • Repeat the layering process with another layer of graham crackers, the rest of the cream cheese mixture, and the remaining strawberries.
  4. Chill:
    • Cover the dish 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.
  5. Serve:
    • Once chilled, slice the cake into squares. Garnish with additional fresh strawberries if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy this refreshing dessert!

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