Sure! Here’s a detailed recipe for Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake. This dessert is light, refreshing, and perfect for summer gatherings or any time you crave a no-bake treat!
Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake
Ingredients:
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For the cake:
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2 cups heavy whipping cream
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1/2 cup powdered sugar (or to taste)
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 package (about 12 oz) of graham crackers (about 1-1.5 boxes, broken into squares)
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For the strawberry topping:
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3 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, but it enhances the flavor)
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Directions:
1. Prepare the Strawberries:
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Wash and slice the strawberries. Set aside about 1/2 cup of sliced strawberries for garnish later.
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In a medium bowl, mix the sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon lemon juice (if using). Stir gently to combine, then set aside. Let the strawberries sit for about 10–15 minutes to draw out their juices.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
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In a large bowl, use an electric mixer or stand mixer to beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.
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Gradually add the heavy whipping cream and continue to mix on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. This will create a light, fluffy whipped cream cheese mixture.
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Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix until combined.
3. Assemble the Cake:
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In a 9×13-inch baking dish (or any similar-sized dish), place a single layer of graham cracker squares, breaking them as needed to fit. This will be your “cake base.”
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Spread a layer of the cream cheese mixture over the graham crackers, smoothing it out with a spatula.
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Add a layer of strawberries (including any juices from the macerated strawberries) over the cream cheese layer.
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Repeat the layers: add another layer of graham crackers, followed by more cream cheese mixture, and top with the remaining strawberry slices. You should have 2-3 layers, depending on the depth of your dish.
4. Chill the Cake:
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Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. The longer it sits, the better the flavors meld, and the graham crackers soften to create a cake-like texture.
5. Garnish and Serve:
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After chilling, garnish with the reserved sliced strawberries on top of the cake just before serving.
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For a decorative touch, you can add a light dusting of powdered sugar on top or even a few fresh mint leaves.
Tips and Variations:
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Graham crackers: You can swap out graham crackers for other types of cookies like vanilla wafers or shortbread for a different flavor profile.
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Fruit variations: If you prefer, you can use other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or peaches in place of the strawberries or mix them in.
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Make it ahead: This dessert is perfect for making the night before a party or gathering, as it needs time to chill and set.
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Whipped cream topping: If you want a little extra flair, you can top the cake with whipped cream or a light drizzle of chocolate syrup when serving.