Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake
As the summer heat kicks in and the thought of using the oven becomes unbearable, this Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake offers a cool, no-bake escape packed with sweet, refreshing flavor. Layered with juicy strawberries, luscious cream cheese pudding, and crisp graham crackers that soften to a cake-like texture, this chilled dessert is the perfect make-ahead treat for BBQs, potlucks, or casual family nights. With minimal effort and no heat involved, you’ll have a refreshing, creamy dessert that’s as beautiful as it is irresistible.
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Ingredients
- 2 lbs fresh strawberries – washed, hulled, and sliced (about ¼-inch thick)
- 2 sleeves graham crackers (about 18 full sheets)
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 (3.4 oz) packages instant cheesecake-flavored pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- 1 (12 oz) tub whipped topping, divided
- Optional: extra graham cracker crumbs for topping
Instructions
1. Prep the Strawberries
Wash, hull, and slice strawberries into thin rounds. Set aside.
2. Line the Pan
Line the bottom of a 13x9 inch baking dish with a single, even layer of graham crackers, breaking them as needed to fit snugly.. Break crackers as needed to fit evenly.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk until smooth and creamy.
Add cheesecake pudding mixes and milk. Beat on low speed for 4–5 minutes until thickened.
Gently fold in 2 cups of whipped topping until combined.
4. Layer the Dessert
- Layer 1: Spread half the cream cheese mixture over the graham crackers.
- Layer 2: Arrange a layer of sliced strawberries on top.
- Layer 3: Add another layer of graham crackers.
- Layer 4: Spread the remaining cream cheese mixture evenly. Top with additional sliced strawberries.
5. Chill
Cover with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for 6–8 hours or overnight. This softens the graham crackers into a cake-like texture.
6. Finish and Serve
Just before serving, spread the remaining whipped topping over the top. Sprinkle with crushed graham crackers if desired for a little crunch.
Variations and Tips
- Berry Swap: Try blueberries, raspberries, or a mix for variety.
- Make it Lighter: Use low-fat cream cheese and light whipped topping.
- Add Texture: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds on top.
- Freeze it: For a firmer, ice cream cake-like dessert, freeze 2–3 hours, then thaw briefly before slicing.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake is a sweet, chilled masterpiece that captures everything you love about summer desserts: fruity, creamy, and effortlessly satisfying. Make it once, and it’ll become a seasonal favorite.