Imagine a dessert that combines the creamy decadence of cheesecake with the fresh, vibrant flavor of ripe strawberries, all layered between delicate graham crackers. This no-bake Strawberry Cheesecake Icebox Cake is not just a dessert—it's a cool, refreshing experience that will transport you to dessert heaven with every single bite. Perfect for hot summer days, family gatherings, or when you simply want to treat yourself to something extraordinary, this recipe promises to be your new go-to sweet sensation.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package graham crackers
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the cream cheese mixture by placing softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl. Beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer.
- Gradually add powdered sugar to the cream cheese, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated and no lumps remain.
- In a separate clean bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This typically takes about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer on medium-high speed.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream. Mix until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Wash and slice fresh strawberries into thin, uniform pieces. Set aside a few whole strawberries for garnishing.
- In a 9x13 inch dish, begin layering by placing a single layer of graham crackers to cover the bottom of the pan, breaking crackers as needed to fit.
- Spread half of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the graham cracker layer, ensuring complete coverage.
- Add a layer of sliced strawberries over the cream cheese mixture, distributing them evenly.
- Repeat the layering process: add another layer of graham crackers, then the remaining cream cheese mixture, and top with the remaining strawberry slices.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld and graham crackers to soften.
- Before serving, garnish with reserved whole strawberries and optionally dust with additional powdered sugar if desired.
- Slice and serve chilled. The icebox cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips
- Ensure cream cheese is completely softened at room temperature to avoid lumps in your mixture.
- When whipping cream, use a chilled bowl and beaters for faster, more stable peaks.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and visual appeal.
- For a cleaner slice, let the icebox cake set overnight.
- If you want a firmer texture, you can briefly freeze the cake before serving.
- Experiment with different graham cracker varieties for subtle flavor variations.
- For a decorative touch, reserve some whole strawberries and whipped cream for garnishing just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 398kcal
Carbohydrates: 46g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 36g
Saturated Fat: 21g
Cholesterol: 98mg
