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Easy No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Icebox Cake

no-bake strawberry cheesecake icebox cake - featured image

A quick and easy no-bake dessert featuring creamy cheesecake layers, fresh strawberries, and crunchy graham crackers, perfect for summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 ounces (450 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
  • 3/4 cup (90 g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Zest of one medium lemon
  • 2 cups (about 300 g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • About 12 sheets graham crackers
  • Optional: splash of strawberry jam or preserves

Instructions

  1. Rinse and hull about 2 cups (300 g) of fresh strawberries. Slice evenly and set aside.
  2. Chill mixing bowl and beaters for 15 minutes if possible. Pour 1 cup (240 ml) cold heavy whipping cream into the bowl and beat on medium-high speed until soft peaks form.
  3. In another bowl, beat 16 ounces (450 g) softened cream cheese until smooth. Add 3/4 cup (90 g) powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Beat until well combined and fluffy.
  4. Gently fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula, keeping it light and airy.
  5. Spread a thin layer of cream cheese mixture on the bottom of an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) dish. Arrange a layer of graham crackers on top. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese mixture over crackers, then add a layer of sliced strawberries. Repeat layers, finishing with cream cheese mixture and garnish with strawberry slices.
  6. Cover dish with plastic wrap or lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.
  7. Cut into squares or scoop with a spoon to serve. Let sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes if edges are too firm.

Notes

Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth texture. Chill cream bowl and beaters for better whipping. Fold whipped cream gently to keep airy texture. Chill at least 4 hours or overnight for best results. If graham crackers get soggy too fast, break into smaller pieces. Lemon zest adds fresh lift. Frozen strawberries can be used if thawed and drained.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake, strawberry cheesecake, icebox cake, summer dessert, easy dessert, graham crackers, fresh strawberries