Refreshing Strawberry Delight

Refreshing Strawberry Delight is a light and creamy dessert that perfectly balances the sweetness of fresh strawberries with a rich, fluffy filling. This no-bake dessert features a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a creamy layer of sweetened cream cheese, whipped cream, and fresh strawberries. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for a summer gathering, holiday celebration, or anytime you want a cool, refreshing treat. Whether served in individual portions or in a large dish, Strawberry Delight is sure to become a favorite dessert.

INGREDIENTS:

For the crust:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 graham crackers)

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream

1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk

For the topping:

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

2 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional, for macerating the strawberries)

Fresh mint for garnish (optional)

DIRECTIONS:

For the crust:

Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is well combined and resembles wet sand.

Form the crust: Press the graham cracker mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish or an 8-inch springform pan. Use the back of a spoon to compact the crust firmly. Refrigerate while you prepare the filling.

For the filling:

Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy.

Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.

Add sweetened condensed milk: Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and mix until the filling is smooth and fluffy.

Assemble the dessert:

Layer the filling: Spread the creamy filling evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top.

Top with strawberries: Arrange the sliced strawberries over the filling. If you want to sweeten the strawberries, toss them with 2 tablespoons of sugar and let them sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices.

Chill and serve:

Chill: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.

Serve: Slice and serve chilled, garnished with fresh mint if desired.