No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake Dessert

Here’s a full, detailed No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake Dessert recipe that’s easy, kid-friendly, and doesn’t require an oven 🍓🍰

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🍓 No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake Dessert

⏱ Prep Time

• About 25–30 minutes

• Chill time: at least 2–4 hours

🍽 Servings

• 8–10 servings

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🧾 Ingredients

For the crust / base

• 2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs or golden cookies (crushed)

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the strawberry layer

• 4 cups fresh strawberries, washed and sliced

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, helps flavor and color)

For the cream layer

• 1 package (8 oz / 225 g) cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold

For topping (optional but recommended)

• Extra sliced strawberries

• Crushed cookies or wafers

• Whipped cream

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🥣 Directions (Step-by-Step)

1️⃣ Prepare the crust

1. Crush the vanilla wafers or cookies until they look like fine crumbs
   (You can use a food processor or place them in a zip bag and crush with a rolling pin.)

2. Pour the crumbs into a bowl and mix with melted butter until evenly coated.

3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9 inch dish or similar pan.

4. Place the dish in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the other layers.

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2️⃣ Prepare the strawberries

1. Place sliced strawberries in a bowl.

2. Add granulated sugar and lemon juice.

3. Stir gently and let sit for 10–15 minutes until the strawberries release juices.

4. Lightly mash a few strawberries with a fork (optional) for a syrupy texture.

5. Set aside.

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3️⃣ Make the cream layer

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.

2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Beat again until creamy and lump-free.

3. In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form.

4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula.
   (Do not overmix—this keeps it light and fluffy.)

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4️⃣ Assemble the dessert

1. Spread the cream mixture evenly over the chilled crust.

2. Spoon the strawberry mixture (with juices) over the cream layer.

3. Spread gently to cover the top.

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5️⃣ Chill

1. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil.

2. Refrigerate for at least 2–4 hours (overnight is even better).
   This helps the layers set and improves flavor.

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6️⃣ Serve

1. Add extra strawberries, crushed cookies, or whipped cream on top if desired.

2. Slice and serve cold.