Description
This Strawberry Cheesecake Icebox Cake is a no-bake layered dessert featuring creamy strawberry-flavored cheesecake, graham crackers, strawberry preserves, and fresh sliced strawberries. Chilled for several hours, it offers a refreshing and luscious treat perfect for warm weather or special occasions.
Ingredients
Cheesecake Layer
- 2 ⅓ cups powdered sugar
- 16 oz cream cheese
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp strawberry extract
- ½ tsp salt
- 3 cups heavy cream
Cake Layers
- 25 graham crackers
- 2 cups strawberry preserves
- 4 ½ cups sliced fresh strawberries
Instructions
- Prepare Cheesecake Mixture: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine powdered sugar, cream cheese, lemon juice, vanilla extract, strawberry extract, and salt. Beat on high speed for 2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and free of cream cheese lumps. Transfer this mixture to a medium bowl.
- Whip Heavy Cream: Using the same stand mixer bowl, attach the whisk and whip the heavy cream on high speed until stiff peaks form, approximately 4 minutes.
- Fold Cheesecake and Whipped Cream Together: Gently fold the cream cheese mixture into the whipped heavy cream using a rubber spatula, taking care not to deflate the whipped cream while ensuring the two mixtures are fully incorporated.
- Assemble the Icebox Cake – First Layer: In a 9×13-inch pan, arrange about 8 whole graham crackers in a single layer. Spread one-third of the cheesecake mixture over the crackers. Evenly spread 1 cup of strawberry preserves on top of the cheesecake layer, followed by an even layer of sliced strawberries placed side by side.
- Second Layer: Place about 7 ½ graham crackers over the strawberries. Spread another one-third of the cheesecake mixture evenly on top. Add the remaining strawberry preserves, then top with another layer of sliced strawberries.
- Final Layer: Add the last 7 ½ graham crackers in a layer. Spread the remaining cheesecake mixture over the top, followed by remaining sliced strawberries.
- Chill the Cake: Cover the assembled cake tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or overnight, to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld.
- Serve: Remove plastic wrap, slice the icebox cake into portions, and serve chilled.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Notes
- Ensure the heavy cream is whipped to stiff peaks to maintain a light and airy texture.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
- The cake benefits from chilling overnight to allow the graham crackers to soften and the flavors to meld.
- Handle the layers gently while folding the cheesecake mixture to keep the dessert light and fluffy.
- Store in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
