STRAWBERRY CREAM CHEESE ICEBOX CAKE

Welcome to a delightful journey of flavor and texture with our Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake! This no-bake dessert is the perfect treat for any occasion, combining the lusciousness of cream cheese with the fresh, sweet taste of strawberries, all layered with graham crackers for a satisfying crunch. It’s a dessert that feels both indulgent and refreshing, making it a hit at summer gatherings or a simple family dinner. Let’s dive into what makes this cake so special!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake is a showstopper for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring no oven time, which is perfect for hot days. The combination of creamy cheese, sweet strawberries, and crunchy graham crackers creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s make-ahead friendly, allowing you to prepare it in advance and let it chill until you’re ready to serve.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 3-quart 13×9 baking dish
• Electric mixer
• Large mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

• 2 lb. strawberries
• 2 sleeves graham crackers
• 1 – 8 oz. package cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 – 14 oz. can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 – 3.4 oz. packages instant cheesecake flavored pudding
• 3 cups milk
• 1 – 12 oz. carton whipped topping, divided

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Wash and remove the tops of the strawberries, then slice them 1/4 inch thick and set aside.
2. Line the bottom of a 3-quart 13×9 baking dish with graham crackers and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
4. Add the pudding mixes and milk to the cream cheese mixture. Continue mixing on low for 4-5 minutes or until the mixture starts to thicken.
5. Fold in 2 cups of whipped topping until the mixture is smooth.
6. Pour half of the cream cheese mixture over the layer of graham crackers in the baking dish.
7. Arrange a single layer of strawberry slices over the cream cheese mixture.
8. Top the strawberries with another layer of graham crackers, then cover with the remaining cream cheese mixture.
9. Add another layer of strawberries on top.
10. Cover the dish and refrigerate for 6-8 hours.
11. When ready to serve, top with the remaining whipped topping. Crush any remaining graham crackers and sprinkle the crumbs over the top for garnish.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing.
• For best results, allow the cake to chill for the full 8 hours so the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.

Additional Tips and Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a layer of sliced bananas or a sprinkle of chocolate chips for an extra twist. You can also experiment with different pudding flavors if you can’t find the cheesecake variety.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This dessert is a sweet treat, so enjoy it in moderation. It provides a delightful mix of carbohydrates, fats, and some protein, thanks to the cream cheese and milk.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen strawberries? While fresh strawberries are recommended for their texture and flavor, you can use frozen ones in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

How long can I store the icebox cake? The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it covered to maintain freshness.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time? Absolutely! This dessert is perfect for making a day in advance, allowing the flavors to develop even more.

Conclusion

We hope this Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake brings a bit of sweetness and joy to your table. It’s a simple yet impressive dessert that’s sure to win over your family and friends. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! We’d love to hear your thoughts and any creative variations you come up with.