No Bake Strawberry Shortcake Dessert (Printable)
Tender cookies layered with sweetened strawberries and creamy whipped filling make this fuss-free chilled dessert perfect for gatherings.
# What You'll 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:
01 - In a bowl, toss sliced strawberries with granulated sugar. Let sit for 10–15 minutes until they release their juices.
02 - In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
03 - In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
04 - Gently fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined and smooth.
05 - Line the bottom of a 9 x 9 inch dish with half of the cookies. Spread half the cream mixture over the cookies, then top with half of the macerated strawberries including their juices.
06 - Repeat layers with remaining cookies, cream mixture, and macerated strawberries.
07 - Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and cookies to soften.
08 - Garnish with extra strawberries before serving, if desired. Slice and serve chilled.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- Nobody has to know you spent about 20 minutes putting it together
- That contrast between juicy berries and clouds of cream is absolute perfection
02 -
- The chilling time is not optional
- Room temperature cream cheese will save you from a lumpy filling situation
03 -
- Drizzle a little strawberry jam between layers for extra berry intensity
- Don't skip the macerating step or you'll miss out on that incredible strawberry syrup