Strawberry Cream Layered Dessert is a visually stunning and deliciously satisfying treat that combines the richness of cream cheese with the brightness of fresh strawberries. It’s built in three distinct layers: a crumbly graham cracker base, a smooth and creamy filling, and a glossy strawberry topping made with halved berries and glaze.
The dessert is served chilled, making it ideal for warm weather or festive occasions. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time and requires no baking, making it accessible for all skill levels. The cream layer is light yet indulgent, the crust adds texture and depth, and the strawberry topping provides a burst of freshness and color.
Whether served in squares or scooped into bowls, this dessert offers a balance of flavors and textures that’s hard to resist. It’s versatile enough to be customized with other fruits, flavored fillings, or decorative garnishes. Once you’ve made it, it’s bound to become a favorite for potlucks, birthdays, or weekend treats.
🧂 INGREDIENTS
For the Crust:
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
450g cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups whipped topping or whipped cream
For the Strawberry Topping:
2 cups fresh strawberries, halved
1/2 cup strawberry jam or preserves
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Optional: 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thicker glaze)
🔪 INSTRUCTION
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Step 1: Prepare the crust In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch glass dish. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to smooth and compact the crust. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to set.
Step 2: Make the cream cheese filling In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue beating until fully incorporated. Fold in whipped topping gently with a spatula until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 3: Assemble the cream layer Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula. Chill again for 30 minutes to firm up before adding the topping.
Step 4: Prepare the strawberry topping In a saucepan, combine strawberry jam, lemon juice, and cornstarch slurry if using. Heat gently until the mixture is glossy and slightly thickened. Let cool to room temperature. Arrange halved strawberries over the cream layer, then spoon the glaze over the top to coat the berries.
Step 5: Chill and serve Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. Slice into squares and serve chilled. Garnish with mint leaves or extra whipped cream if desired.
🍽️ SERVINGS
This recipe yields 9–12 servings, depending on portion size. It’s ideal for small gatherings, dessert platters, or as a light finish to a rich meal.
📝 NOTE
Crust alternatives: Use crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or chocolate cookies for variation.
Cream cheese tips: Ensure cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps. Full-fat versions yield the best texture.
Whipped topping vs. whipped cream: Store-bought whipped topping is more stable, but fresh whipped cream offers richer flavor.
Strawberry topping options: Canned pie filling is convenient, but homemade compote adds freshness and control over sweetness.
Make-ahead friendly: Prepare up to 2 days in advance. Keep covered in the fridge until ready to serve.
Freezer option: Freeze assembled dessert for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Low-sugar version: Use reduced-sugar jam and substitute powdered sugar with stevia or erythritol.
Dairy-free adaptation: Use plant-based cream cheese and coconut whipped topping. Choose fruit compote without gelatin.
Serving ideas: Pair with coffee, tea, or sparkling drinks. Serve with a drizzle of chocolate or berry coulis for elegance.
🧑🍳 OTHER RECIPES TO TRY
If you love layered strawberry desserts, here are other fruity and creamy treats to explore:
1. Strawberry Shortcake
Fluffy biscuits layered with whipped cream and fresh strawberries. Rustic and delightful.
2. Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Creamy cheesecake with a graham cracker crust and strawberry topping. Great for slicing and sharing.
3. Strawberry Swiss Roll
Rolled sponge cake filled with cream and strawberries. Elegant and fun to slice.
4. Strawberry Trifle
Layers of cake, custard, cream, and fruit in a glass bowl. Perfect for parties.
5. Strawberry Yogurt Mousse
Light and airy mousse made with yogurt and fresh berries. Refreshing and healthy.
6. Strawberry Tart
Crisp pastry shell filled with vanilla cream and topped with glazed strawberries.
7. Strawberry Icebox Cake
No-bake dessert with layers of biscuits, cream, and strawberries. Easy and delicious.
🌟 FINAL THOUGHTS
Strawberry Cream Layered Dessert is a celebration of simplicity and freshness. It’s a dessert that feels indulgent yet light, with a texture that melts on the tongue and a flavor that lingers sweetly. Whether served in elegant glasses or scooped from a dish, it brings joy and color to any table.
Its versatility makes it a favorite for both casual and formal occasions. You can dress it up with layers and garnishes or keep it rustic and homey. Once you’ve made it, you’ll find endless ways to adapt and enjoy it—because some desserts are just too good to make only once.
