No Bake Strawberry Shortcake (Printable Version)
Silky layers of macerated strawberries, whipped cream-cheese filling and crunchy graham crumbs chilled until firm.
# What You Need:
→ Strawberry Layer
01 - 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
02 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
03 - 1 teaspoon lemon juice
→ Cream Layer
04 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
05 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
07 - 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
→ Cookie Layer
08 - 20 sheets graham crackers or vanilla shortbread cookies, crushed
→ Assembly and Garnish
09 - Fresh sliced strawberries, for garnish (optional)
10 - Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
# How to Make It:
01 - In a mixing bowl, combine sliced strawberries with 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and lemon juice. Allow to macerate for 10 to 15 minutes until the fruit becomes juicy.
02 - In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup granulated sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
03 - Using an electric mixer or whisk, whip the cold heavy whipping cream in another bowl until stiff peaks form.
04 - Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring the blend remains light and fluffy.
05 - Spread a layer of crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs in the bottom of a 9x9 inch dish. Top with half of the cream mixture, then half of the macerated strawberries with juices. Repeat layering with remaining cookies, cream mixture, and strawberries.
06 - Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the layers to set fully.
07 - Before serving, garnish with additional sliced strawberries and fresh mint leaves if desired.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- No baking means you stay cool while still enjoying homey, nostalgic flavors.
- The layers come together in a way that always impresses, even if you’re a notorious dessert ‘assembler.’
02 -
- Trying to rush the chilling step means messy servings—trust me, I’ve served strawberry soup before.
- Switching from graham crackers to shortbread cookies made the texture almost cake-like—my pick for special occasions every time.
03 -
- Wipe your knife between slices for neat servings every time.
- A pinch of salt in the cream cheese balances sweetness beautifully—my not-so-secret weapon.