Nothing says summer like strawberries, and there’s no better way to enjoy them than in a dreamy, creamy icebox cake. As temperatures rise and strawberry season hits its peak, this Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake is the perfect way to cool down and satisfy those sweet cravings. Follow along to discover how to make this delightful treat that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the richness of cream cheese.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (refrigeration time)
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 10-12
Ingredients:
- 2 lb. fresh strawberries, washed and sliced
- 2 sleeves graham crackers
- 1 – 8 oz. package cream cheese, at 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
Instructions:
- Creamy Base Preparation: In a large mixing bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese until smooth and free of lumps. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk and continue beating until well combined.
- Pudding Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together both packages of instant cheesecake flavored pudding and the 3 cups of milk until the mixture thickens. Gently fold in half of the whipped topping to this pudding mixture.
- Layering: Begin the assembly in a 9×13 inch dish. Start by placing a single layer of graham crackers at the bottom. Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the graham crackers, followed by half of the pudding mixture. Add a generous layer of sliced strawberries.
- Repeat: Lay another layer of graham crackers over the strawberries. Spread on the remaining cream cheese mixture followed by the remaining pudding mixture. Top with another generous layer of sliced strawberries.
- Final Touch: Spread the remaining half of the whipped topping over the strawberries, creating a smooth surface. For an added touch of elegance, you can garnish with a few strawberry slices or even a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers.
- Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. This will allow the graham crackers to soften and all the flavors to meld together.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled, slice into squares and serve. Enjoy the creamy, fruity, and crunchy layers of this delightful summer treat!
Tips:
- Variations: You can customize this cake by adding other berries like blueberries or raspberries, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce between the layers for a decadent twist.
- Make-Ahead: This dessert is perfect for making ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for parties or gatherings.
- Serving Size: Depending on how generous you are with your layers, this cake can serve approximately 10-12 people.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator. The cake will soften as it sits, but it will still taste amazing.
- Use Fresh Strawberries: While you can use frozen strawberries, fresh ones truly shine in this recipe, especially during strawberry season.
The Secrets Behind Perfect Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake:
- Freshness First: Always choose the freshest strawberries. Look for bright red berries with green caps and avoid those with dark spots or shriveling.
- Chill Time: Patience is key. Allow the cake to chill for the recommended time. This ensures the graham crackers absorb moisture and become cake-like.
- Quality Ingredients: Opt for full-fat cream cheese and a good-quality whipped topping for the richest taste and texture.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair this cake with a chilled glass of sparkling wine or prosecco for an elevated dessert experience.
- Add a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream on the side for a touch of cold creaminess.
- Garnish with mint leaves or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use frozen strawberries? While fresh strawberries are recommended, you can use thawed frozen strawberries in a pinch. Ensure they’re drained well to avoid excess moisture.
- How long can I store the icebox cake? This cake is best enjoyed within 2-3 days, stored in the refrigerator.
- Can I use regular pudding instead of cheesecake flavored? Yes, vanilla or white chocolate pudding can be substituted, but the cheesecake flavor adds a unique touch.
This Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake is more than just a dessert – it’s an experience. Every bite is a harmony of textures and flavors, making it an instant favorite for family gatherings, picnics, or simply an indulgent treat after a long day. So, the next time you find yourself with a bounty of fresh strawberries, you know exactly what delightful dish to whip up!
Tip: For an even more decadent experience, try drizzling a little chocolate syrup or adding a handful of chocolate chips to the layers!
