No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake Dessert

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries: In a large bowl, mix the sliced strawberries with granulated sugar and lemon juice if you choose to include it. Gently stir and let the mixture sit for 15-20 minutes to create a sweet syrup.
Make the Creamy Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl until it’s smooth. Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, blending until the mixture is thick and completely smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream with powdered sugar until it forms stiff peaks, then carefully fold this into the cream cheese mixture until combined.
Prepare the Cake Layer: Cut your pound cake into 1-inch cubes or use your chosen cookies whole for easier layering.
Assemble the Dessert: In a 9×13-inch dish, begin layering by placing a third of the cake or cookies at the bottom. Follow this with a third of the strawberries (with syrup) and a third of the cream filling. Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with the cream layer on top.
Garnish and Chill: Smooth out the top layer. Add any garnishes you like, such as additional sliced strawberries, crushed cookies, white chocolate shavings, or fresh mint leaves. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve your No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake Dessert by cutting it into squares for a neat presentation. You might consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence or a dollop of fresh whipped cream. A side of lightly brewed tea or coffee complements the dessert beautifully, making it a perfect finish to any meal.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

To store any leftovers, simply cover the dessert tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can stay refrigerated for up to three days. However, for optimal flavor and texture, it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days. If you have leftover strawberries or cream, they can also be stored separately.

Helpful Cooking Tips

Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before starting; this will allow it to blend smoothly without lumps.
For a bit more flavor, you can add a splash of almond extract to the cream filling, giving it a beautiful depth.
If you’re concerned about leftovers, consider making half the recipe and using a smaller dish to avoid waste.

Creative Twists

Why not experiment with flavors? You could try adding crushed bananas or blueberries in place of some strawberries for a mixed berry shortcake. Or, for a tropical twist, incorporate diced pineapple or coconut flakes into the filling. Gluten-free options are also available — simply use gluten-free cookies or cake.

Common Questions

What’s the prep time for this recipe?

The prep time is around 30 minutes, plus chilling time of at least 4 hours for the best texture.

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use any type of cake or cookies you prefer. Additionally, you can swap out the heavy cream for whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free version.

How long can I keep this dessert in the refrigerator?

It’s best enjoyed within 3 days but will last for up to a week in the fridge. Just be ready for the layers to settle a bit as time goes on!