Ingredients :
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened1 (8 oz) tub of whipped topping (like Cool Whip)1/2 cup powdered sugar1 teaspoon vanilla extract1 cup heavy whipping cream1 lb fresh strawberries, sliced1 (14.4 oz) package graham crackers1/4 cup granulated sugar (for sweetening strawberries)1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, to enhance strawberry flavor)
Préparations :
Prepare the Strawberry Mixture:In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup granulated sugar and lemon juice (optional). Stir well and set aside to let the strawberries macerate for about 10-15 minutes. This helps release their juices and sweetens them naturally.Make the Cream Cheese Filling:In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until fully combined.In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form (you can do this with an electric mixer or a hand whisk).Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and well combined. This creates the light, fluffy filling.Assemble the Icebox Cake:Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese filling on the bottom of the dish.Place a layer of graham crackers over the filling, breaking them to fit if necessary.Spoon about one-third of the remaining cream cheese mixture over the graham crackers and smooth it out.Add a layer of the sweetened strawberries on top of the cream cheese mixture.Repeat the layers: another layer of graham crackers, followed by more cream cheese filling, and then another layer of strawberries.Finish with a final layer of graham crackers and the remaining cream cheese mixture.Chill the Cake:Cover the cake with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the graham crackers to soften and the flavors to meld together.Serve:Before serving, garnish the top with additional fresh strawberries or even a drizzle of strawberry sauce if you like.Slice and enjoy this cool, creamy, and fruity dessert!Tips:If you prefer, you can use other berries like blueberries or raspberries in place of strawberries.The cake can be made ahead of time, and it keeps well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.This Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake is the perfect dessert for warm weather, offering a combination of creamy richness and fruity freshness with minimal effort!
Enjoy