Description
Enjoy a refreshing Strawberry Cool Whip Dessert with layers of fresh strawberries, a creamy cream cheese and Cool Whip mixture, all on a buttery graham cracker crust. This no-bake treat is perfect for warm days and gatherings, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures that will impress your guests!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (8 oz) container of Cool Whip, thawed
- 1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Rinse the strawberries under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities.
- Hull the strawberries by removing the green tops using a knife or a huller.
- Slice the strawberries into thin, even pieces.
- In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir gently to coat the strawberries evenly.
- Let the strawberries sit for about 30 minutes to release their juices and create a syrup.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese at room temperature.
- Using an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Gradually add in 1 cup of powdered sugar while continuing to mix until fully combined and lump-free.
- Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula, being careful not to deflate it.
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, mixing until evenly coated.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to create an even layer.
- Refrigerate the crust for about 10-15 minutes to set.
- Layer half of the strawberries over the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading them evenly.
- Spoon half of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberries, spreading it out evenly.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining strawberries and cream cheese mixture, ensuring even distribution.
- Drizzle any leftover strawberry juice over the top for added flavor.
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent odors from affecting the dessert.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best flavor development.
- After chilling, slice and serve the Strawberry Cool Whip Dessert.
- Garnish with sliced almonds and fresh mint leaves if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese and Cool Whip.
- Feel free to substitute other berries or fruits for a different flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes