A Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake is a delightful and no-bake dessert that’s perfect for warm days. Here’s a simple recipe for making this refreshing treat:
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
- 24-30 graham crackers
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Strawberries:
- In a bowl, combine sliced strawberries with granulated sugar and vanilla extract. Toss to coat the strawberries and let them sit for about 15-20 minutes to release their juices.
2. Make the Whipped Cream:
- In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form.
- Add the powdered sugar and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- If desired, add lemon zest for a hint of citrus flavor.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese until well combined.
4. Assemble the Icebox Cake:
- In a rectangular dish or on a serving platter, arrange a layer of graham crackers to cover the bottom.
- Spread a portion of the cream cheese mixture over the graham crackers.
- Add a layer of the macerated strawberries.
- Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of the cream cheese mixture on top.
5. Refrigerate:
- Cover the icebox cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the graham crackers to soften.
6. Garnish (Optional):
- Before serving, garnish the top with additional sliced strawberries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar if desired.
7. Serve:
- Slice and serve the Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake chilled.
Enjoy the creamy and fruity goodness of this no-bake dessert! The layers of graham crackers, cream cheese filling, and sweet strawberries create a delicious and refreshing treat.