This Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake is a delightful no-bake dessert that layers graham crackers, creamy cheesecake filling, and fresh strawberries. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or any time you need a refreshing, sweet treat without turning on the oven. The combination of sweetened condensed milk, cheesecake pudding, and strawberries creates a delicious harmony of flavors and textures that’s both satisfying and visually appealing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- No-Bake Ease: Perfect for hot days when you want a fabulous dessert without the heat of baking.
- Creamy and Fruity: Combines the richness of cream cheese and the brightness of fresh strawberries.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for preparing a day ahead, making it convenient for entertaining.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds strawberries, sliced
- 2 sleeves graham crackers
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 (3.4-ounce) packages instant cheesecake flavored pudding
- 3 cups milk
- 1 (12-ounce) carton Cool Whip, divided
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
- Clean and Slice: Rinse the strawberries under cold water, pat dry, and slice into 1/4-inch pieces. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
- Layer Graham Crackers: Line a 3-quart 13×9-inch baking dish with graham crackers, breaking as necessary to fit.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
- Add Pudding and Milk: Incorporate the pudding mixes and milk, mixing until thickened.
- Fold in Cool Whip: Gently fold in 2 cups of Cool Whip until combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- First Layer: Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the graham crackers.
- Strawberry Layer: Place a layer of sliced strawberries over the cream.
- Second Graham Layer: Add another layer of graham crackers.
- Remaining Cream Mixture: Top with the remaining cream cheese mixture.
- Final Strawberry Layer: Finish with a layer of strawberries.
Step 5: Refrigerate
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for 6 to 8 hours, allowing the cake to set.
Step 6: Final Touches
- Check Moisture: Before serving, pat any excess moisture from the strawberries.
- Top with Cool Whip: Spread the remaining Cool Whip over the top.
- Add Graham Cracker Crumbs: Sprinkle crushed graham crackers for added texture.
Storage Options:
- Store covered in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days for best freshness and texture.
Tips:
- Enhanced Flavor: For an extra touch, drizzle a little strawberry sauce or sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the final layer of Cool Whip before adding the graham cracker crumbs.
- Serving: This cake is best served chilled and can be cut into squares for easy serving.
