Indulge in the irresistible charm of a Strawberry Crunch Layered Dessert—a luscious, no-bake masterpiece that brings together the creamy richness of cheesecake, the freshness of strawberries, and the satisfying crunch of a golden cookie and cereal crumble.
Perfect for summer get-togethers, potlucks, or just a family treat, this dessert offers layers of flavor and texture that will wow your taste buds. Unlike traditional strawberry shortcakes or parfaits, this dessert layers smooth cream cheese filling, juicy strawberries, and a strawberry crunch topping made from crushed cookies and freeze-dried fruit cereal. Whether served chilled in a dish or set in individual cups, it’s a visually stunning and incredibly satisfying dessert that requires minimal effort with maximum payoff.
Ingredients
For the Crunch Topping
1 cup crushed golden sandwich cookies (like Golden Oreos)
1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries or strawberry-flavored cereal (such as Crunch Berries)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cream Layer
2 packs (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
For the Strawberry Layer
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Base (Optional)
1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers or vanilla cookies
1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Base Layer (Optional but Recommended)
In a medium bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers or vanilla cookies with the melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9×9 inch dish or trifle bowl to create a crust. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing other layers. - Make the Crunch Topping
In a food processor, pulse the golden sandwich cookies and freeze-dried strawberries or strawberry cereal until you get coarse crumbs. Pour into a bowl and stir in melted butter until the mixture is crumbly and sticks together slightly. Set aside. - Prepare the Strawberry Layer
In a bowl, combine chopped fresh strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Stir well and let it sit for 10–15 minutes so the strawberries release their natural juices, creating a simple macerated strawberry mix. - Make the Cream Cheese Filling
Using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until combined. Gently fold in the whipped topping to create a light, airy texture. This layer brings the creamy, cheesecake-like consistency that balances the crunch and fruitiness. - Assemble the Layers
Remove the prepared crust from the fridge. Spread half of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the base. Add a layer of the sweetened strawberries over the cream. Sprinkle a handful of the crunch topping over the strawberries. Repeat with the remaining cream cheese mixture, another layer of strawberries, and a final generous sprinkling of crunch topping to cover the surface. - Chill and Set
Cover the dessert with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3–4 hours, or overnight if possible. This allows the layers to meld together and the flavors to fully develop. - Serve and Enjoy
Slice into squares or scoop into dessert bowls. Garnish with extra fresh strawberries or a dollop of whipped topping if desired. This dessert is best served chilled and will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.