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As the warm sun graces us with longer days and vibrant colors, the craving for lighter, refreshing desserts often emerges. No-bake desserts have surged in popularity, offering an effortless way to satisfy sweet tooth cravings without the hassle of preheating an oven. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or simply indulging in a personal treat, no-bake recipes often emphasize fresh ingredients, making them not just delicious but also a celebration of seasonal produce.

Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake

Indulge in the refreshing flavors of summer with the no-bake Strawberries & Cream Dream Delight. This elegant dessert features layers of creamy whipped goodness and ripe strawberries resting on a crunchy graham cracker base. Easy to prepare, it's perfect for gatherings or a personal treat. Packed with fresh ingredients, each bite offers a delightful balance of sweetness and tang. Discover how to create this visually stunning dessert that's sure to impress at any occasion!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for strawberries)

1 cup heavy whipping cream

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped cream)

1 package (14-oz) honey graham crackers

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup sour cream

Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Strawberries: In a medium mixing bowl, add the sliced strawberries along with the granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Gently toss the strawberries to ensure they are coated evenly. Allow the mixture to rest for 10-15 minutes at room temperature. This will help the strawberries release their natural juices and become syrupy.

    Make the Whipped Cream: In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and the remaining 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, whip the cream on medium-high speed until soft peaks begin to form. Take care to stop when the cream is fluffy and smooth, avoiding over-whipping which can lead to a grainy texture.

      Mix the Cheese Filling: In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Mix the two ingredients together until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. A whisk or hand mixer works well for this step to ensure there are no lumps in the filling.

        Layer the Ingredients: In a 9x13 inch baking dish, begin to layer the components. Start with a layer of graham crackers at the bottom, breaking them if necessary to cover the entire surface. Spread a layer of the cream cheese mixture over the graham crackers, followed by a layer of whipped cream. Next, distribute half of the strawberry mixture over this layer.

          Repeat Layers: Continue the layering process by adding another layer of graham crackers, followed by the remaining cream cheese filling and more whipped cream. Finally, top off with the leftover strawberry mixture to complete the layers. For a finishing touch, you can add dollops of whipped cream on top.

            Chill the Cake: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the dessert to chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight for optimal flavor and texture. Chilling helps the graham crackers soften and meld with the other layers.

              Serve: After chilling, slice the cake into squares for serving. For an elegant touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired. Relish in this delightful dessert that is sure to be a hit at any gathering!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                  20 minutes | 4 hours chill time | 4-6 servings