Description
No-Bake Strawberry Cream Cake
Ingredients:
For the Base:
2 cups crushed graham crackers
1/2 cup melted butter
For the Cream Layer:
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup strawberry puree
For the Strawberry Layer:
1 cup strawberry slices
1/2 cup strawberry jam
For Garnish:
Fresh strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries
Whipped cream swirls
Crushed graham crackers
Instructions:
1. Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press into the bottom of a springform pan and refrigerate to set.
2. Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in whipped cream and strawberry puree. Spread half of the mixture over the crust.
3. Layer with strawberry slices and a thin layer of strawberry jam. Spread the remaining cream mixture on top.
4. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or until firm.
5. Garnish with fresh berries, whipped cream swirls, and extra graham cracker crumbs.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect no-bake cake. First, ensure your cream cheese is truly softened at room temperature for at least an hour to avoid lumps. For the base, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter thoroughly until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press it firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan using the bottom of a glass. Chill for 30 minutes. For the cream layer, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks in a separate bowl and set aside. In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until completely smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped cream in two batches until just combined. Divide this mixture in half. Fold the strawberry puree into one half, creating a lovely pink layer.
Serving Suggestions
This elegant dessert is versatile for any occasion. Serve it chilled, straight from the refrigerator. For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry between each cut. Pair individual slices with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce. It makes a stunning centerpiece for summer barbecues, birthday parties, or Mother’s Day brunch. For a festive touch, garnish with edible flowers or fresh mint leaves alongside the berries.
How-to Summary
This no-bake strawberry cream cake is built in distinct, chilled layers: 1) A buttery graham cracker crust. 2) A layer of vanilla cream cheese filling. 3) A fresh strawberry and jam layer. 4) A pink strawberry-cream cheese filling layer. The cake must set in the refrigerator for a minimum of 6 hours, or ideally overnight, before garnishing and serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen strawberries for the puree? Yes, thaw frozen strawberries completely and drain any excess liquid before pureeing to prevent a watery filling.
How long will this cake keep in the fridge? Properly covered, it will stay fresh for 3-4 days. The crust may soften slightly over time.
Can I make this cake dairy-free? You can substitute with vegan cream cheese, coconut cream for whipping, and a plant-based butter alternative.
My cream layer is runny. What happened? This usually occurs if the heavy cream was not whipped to stiff peaks, or if the cream cheese was too cold and not beaten until smooth before folding.
Do I have to use a springform pan? While a springform pan is highly recommended for easy removal, you can use a deep-dish pie plate, but serving will be less elegant.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not pressing the crust firmly enough: This leads to a crumbly base that falls apart when sliced.
- Over-mixing the cream filling: Fold gently to maintain the airy volume of the whipped cream.
- Not chilling long enough: The cake needs the full 6+ hours to set properly; cutting too early causes layers to collapse.
- Using cold cream cheese: This creates lumps that won’t blend smoothly, ruining the filling’s texture.
Conclusion
This No-Bake Strawberry Cream Cake is the ultimate fuss-free dessert that delivers maximum flavor and impressive visual appeal. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you are guaranteed a creamy, dreamy success. It’s a perfect make-ahead treat that celebrates the sweet taste of strawberries without ever turning on your oven. Enjoy the compliments from your delighted guests!