Description
A nostalgic and refreshing American icebox dessert that perfectly balances a buttery graham cracker crust with a velvety, tangy cream cheese filling and vibrant, fresh strawberries. This no-bake treat is the ultimate stress-free dessert for any gathering, offering a cool and creamy finish that delights the palate without ever turning on the oven. It is simple, sophisticated, and deeply heartwarming.
Ingredients
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 pound fresh strawberries, washed, hulled, and thinly sliced
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
2 cups whipped topping (or stiffly whipped heavy cream)
Instructions
Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl and press firmly into the bottom of a 9×9 inch dish.
Refrigerate the crust for 15 minutes to firm up.
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
Fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is light and uniform.
Spread half of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker base.
Arrange a layer of sliced strawberries over the cream cheese.
Spread the remaining cream cheese mixture over the strawberries.
Top with remaining strawberry slices for decoration.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before serving.
Notes
Ensure cream cheese is fully at room temperature to avoid lumps in your filling. For a crispier crust, you can toast the graham cracker crumbs in a dry pan for 2 minutes before mixing with butter. Keep refrigerated until the moment of serving to maintain the structure.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg