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Homemade Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake photo

Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake

This Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake is a no-bake delight! Layers of creamy goodness, crunchy graham crackers, and sweet strawberries make it irresistible.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 24 pieces graham crackers (A 14.4 oz. box is ideal; you may have extras for snacking)
  • 3 cups heavy cream (very cold for the best results)
  • 8 oz black cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1-2 lbs strawberries (hulled and sliced thin)
  • 3 tbsp butter (melted, for a little richness)
  • 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries (for an extra punch of flavor)
  • 16 pieces golden Oreos (for an added twist—don't skip these!)

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch Baking Dish
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Electric Mixer
  • Spatula
  • Knife

Method
 

  1. Begin by washing, hulling, and slicing the strawberries thinly. This will allow them to create a juicy layer that complements the cream cheese filling beautifully.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened black cream cheese using an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
  3. In another bowl, pour in the very cold heavy cream. Whip the cream until stiff peaks form. This step is crucial, as it gives the cake its airy texture.
  4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Be careful not to deflate the cream; you want to keep it light and fluffy!
  5. In your 9x13 inch baking dish, start by laying down a single layer of graham crackers. Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture on top, followed by a layer of sliced strawberries. Repeat this process until you finish with a final layer of the cream cheese mixture on top.
  6. Crush the freeze-dried strawberries and sprinkle them over the top layer for added flavor and texture. For an extra indulgence, crush the golden Oreos and sprinkle them on top as well.
  7. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the graham crackers to soften, creating a luscious texture.
  8. Once chilled, slice into squares and serve. You may want to garnish with additional fresh strawberries for a beautiful presentation.

Notes

  • Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps in your mixture.
  • For a more intense strawberry flavor, consider macerating the fresh strawberries with a bit of sugar before layering them in the cake.
  • If you prefer a sweeter filling, adjust the amount of powdered sugar according to your taste.
  • This cake can be made a couple of days ahead, making it perfect for gatherings or potlucks.