No Bake Strawberry Shortcake Dessert (Print)
Layers of buttery cookies, vanilla cream, and fresh strawberries make this effortless chilled dessert perfect for any occasion.
# What You Need:
→ Strawberries
01 - 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
02 - 2 tbsp granulated sugar
→ Cream Layer
03 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
04 - 1/2 cup powdered sugar
05 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
06 - 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
→ Base & Assembly
07 - About 30 shortbread cookies or vanilla wafer cookies
08 - Extra strawberries for garnish (optional)
# How To Make It:
01 - In a bowl, toss sliced strawberries with granulated sugar. Let sit for 10–15 minutes until they release their juices, creating a sweet syrup.
02 - In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
03 - In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined and uniform.
04 - Line the bottom of a 9 x 9 inch dish with half of the cookies, breaking them as needed to fit snugly.
05 - Spread half the cream mixture evenly over the cookies, then top with half of the macerated strawberries along with their released juices.
06 - Create a second layer with remaining cookies, cream mixture, and strawberries. Finish with a top layer of cream and strawberries.
07 - Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow flavors to meld and cookies to soften to a cake-like texture.
08 - Just before serving, garnish with additional fresh strawberry slices if desired. Slice into squares and serve chilled.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The no bake approach means your oven stays off during those hot summer months when the last thing you want is more heat in the kitchen.
- You can assemble this the night before and wake up to a stunning dessert that tastes even better after everything melds together.
02 -
- The chilling time is absolutely non-negotiable because the cookies need those hours to soften from crisp to cake-like.
- Dont be tempted to skip the sugar toss on the strawberries because that released juice is what keeps everything moist and flavorful.
03 -
- For added flavor, drizzle strawberry jam or a splash of strawberry liqueur between layers to intensify that fresh berry taste.
- Use an offset spatula to spread the cream layer evenly and avoid dragging the cookies around as you work.