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No Bake Strawberry Shortcake

No bake strawberry shortcake trifle with layers of cream and juicy berries

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This easy, no-bake dessert layers sweet macerated strawberries and a fluffy cream cheese filling with graham crackers. It's the perfect make-ahead treat for a hot day or a last-minute gathering, requiring no oven and minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 (8-ounce) block full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
  • 1 (14.4-ounce) package honey graham crackers (about 24 full sheets)
  • Additional sliced strawberries and mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Toss gently and let sit for 15-20 minutes to macerate and create a syrup.
  2. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
  3. In a separate clean bowl, beat the cold heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
  4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until no white streaks remain.
  5. In a 9x13 inch baking dish, arrange a single layer of whole graham crackers, breaking some to fit the pan.
  6. Spread half of the cream filling evenly over the crackers.
  7. Using a slotted spoon to drain excess juice, spoon half of the macerated strawberries over the cream layer.
  8. Repeat the layers: graham crackers, remaining cream filling, and remaining strawberries. Drizzle a few spoonfuls of the leftover strawberry juice over the top.
  9. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the graham crackers to soften.
  10. Garnish with additional strawberry slices and mint leaves before serving.

Notes

For best results, ensure cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature to avoid lumps. Do not skip the chilling time, as it allows the layers to set and the crackers to become cake-like. Leftovers keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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