No Bake Strawberry Shortcake Dessert (Print View)

Tender cookies layered with whipped cream filling and macerated fresh strawberries. No baking needed.

# What You Need:

→ Strawberries

01 - 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
02 - 2 tbsp granulated sugar

→ Cream Layer

03 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
04 - 1/2 cup powdered sugar
05 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
06 - 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold

→ Base & Assembly

07 - about 30 shortbread cookies or vanilla wafer cookies
08 - extra strawberries for garnish (optional)

# How-To Steps:

01 - In a bowl, toss sliced strawberries with granulated sugar. Let sit for 10-15 minutes until they release their juices.
02 - In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
03 - In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined and no streaks remain.
04 - Line the bottom of a 9 x 9 inch square dish with half of the cookies, arranging them in a single even layer.
05 - Spread half the cream mixture evenly over the cookie base, then top with half of the macerated strawberries and their juices.
06 - Layer remaining cookies over the first strawberry layer, followed by remaining cream mixture, and finish with remaining strawberries and juices.
07 - Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and cookies to soften to cake-like texture.
08 - Garnish with additional fresh strawberries if desired. Slice into squares and serve chilled.

# Expert Hints:

01 -
  • The cookies soften into cake-like layers that melt in your mouth
  • You can assemble it in the morning and forget about it until guests arrive
  • It tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers
02 -
  • The cookies absolutely need those 2 hours in the refrigerator to soften properly
  • Do not skip the sugar on the strawberries, that juice is what keeps everything moist
  • Use a sharp knife run under hot water to get clean slices
03 -
  • Fold the whipped cream in gently, do not stir it or you will lose all the air
  • Line your dish with parchment paper if you want to lift the whole thing out for easier cutting

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