This Easy Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum is a fruity dessert that’s super refreshing! With sweet strawberries, creamy layers, and a soft crust, it’s a real crowd-pleaser!
Who can resist strawberries, right? It’s like summer on a plate! I love serving this at family gatherings; it’s always gone in seconds. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up on a warm day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: They form the base for this dessert. If you don’t have graham crackers, crushed shortbread cookies can work well too! They add a different but tasty flavor.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is crucial for a smooth filling. Neufchâtel is a lighter option, or you can skip it for a dairy-free version using vegan cream cheese.
Heavy Whipping Cream: This ingredient gives the dessert its fluffy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use half-and-half, though it won’t be as airy. Coconut cream is a great non-dairy substitute.
Fresh Strawberries: Always choose ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor! If strawberries are out of season, you can substitute with other berries like raspberries or blueberries.
How Do You Ensure the Cream Mixture is Perfectly Whipped?
Whipping the cream to the right consistency is important for a light texture. Here are some easy steps:
- Make sure your heavy cream is very cold. Chill your mixing bowl for 10-15 minutes to help.
- Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on high speed; this will create air quickly.
- Stop as soon as you see stiff peaks. Over-whipping can turn the cream into butter, so keep an eye on it!
Folding it into the cream cheese mixture gently is key. Use a spatula and fold in a circular motion to keep the airy texture!
Easy Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 16 full sheets)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cream Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Layer:
- 3 cups fresh strawberries, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 cup strawberry jelly or jam
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert takes about 20 minutes of active prep time. You’ll need to let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to fully set. So, overall, plan for about 4 hours and 20 minutes, with most of that time just waiting for it to chill!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until everything is combined nicely. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to form the crust. Once it’s all pressed down, pop it in the oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes until it’s slightly golden. After baking, let it cool completely while you prepare the rest of the dessert.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream and vanilla extract on high speed until you achieve stiff peaks. This means the cream should hold its shape when you lift the beaters out. Gently fold this whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until it’s fully combined and fluffy.
3. Assemble the Dessert:
Spread half of the creamy mixture evenly over your cooled graham cracker crust. Next, take your strawberry jelly or jam and spread a layer over the cream. Now, arrange your sliced fresh strawberries on top of the jelly. Finally, layer the remaining cream mixture over the strawberries, smoothing it out nicely. To finish, sprinkle the crushed graham crackers over the top for a delightful crunch.
4. Chill and Serve:
Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or even better, overnight if you have time. This helps everything set up nicely! Just before serving, garnish with some halved fresh strawberries on top for a pretty finish. When you’re ready, cut into squares and enjoy this refreshing, creamy strawberry delight!
Enjoy making it and indulging in this sweet treat! 🍓
FAQ for Easy Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum
Can I Use a Different Type of Fruit?
Absolutely! While strawberries are delicious, you can substitute with other fresh fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches. Just make sure to adjust the jelly flavor accordingly for the best taste experience!
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
The leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly as the crust may get a bit softer over time!
Can I Make This Dessert Gluten-Free?
Yes! You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or another gluten-free cookie base for the crust. Just check the labels to ensure all your ingredients are gluten-free!
What Should I Do If the Cream Cheese is Lumpy?
If your cream cheese is lumpy, make sure it’s softened properly before mixing. You can use a hand mixer to beat it until smooth before adding the powdered sugar. If you still have lumps, try running it through a fine sieve or blending it briefly in a blender.
