Strawberry Shortcake Lush (No-Bake Delight)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert is a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The buttery cookie crust provides a satisfying crunch, while the creamy layers of sweetened cream cheese and whipped topping offer a rich and smooth contrast. Fresh strawberries add a burst of natural sweetness and color, making each bite a refreshing treat. Best of all, it's a no-bake recipe, perfect for warm days when you want a delicious dessert without turning on the oven.

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups crushed golden Oreos or vanilla wafers

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• ½ cup powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 8 oz whipped topping, thawed (plus extra for topping)

• 1 (21 oz) can strawberry pie filling or 2 cups fresh sliced strawberries

• Extra cookie crumbs or strawberry slices for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed golden Oreos or vanilla wafers with the melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish to form the crust.

2. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

3. Fold in the thawed whipped topping until well combined.

4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the prepared crust.

5. If using fresh strawberries, arrange them evenly over the cream cheese layer.

6. Spread the strawberry pie filling (or additional fresh strawberries) over the top layer.

7. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow the dessert to set.

8. Before serving, garnish with extra cookie crumbs or fresh strawberry slices if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12

• Active Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Chill Time: 4 hours

• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free vanilla wafers or cookies to make this dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

• Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping, and ensure the cookies are dairy-free.

• Sugar-Free: Opt for sugar-free cookies, cream cheese, whipped topping, and pie filling to reduce sugar content.

• Flavor Variations: Experiment with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or peaches for a different twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep the dessert covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: This dessert can be frozen for up to 1 month. Ensure it's tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

• Reheating: This is a no-bake dessert and should be served chilled.

FAQs

How can I make this dessert ahead of time?

You can prepare this dessert a day in advance. Just ensure it's well-covered and refrigerated to maintain freshness.

Can I use store-bought whipped topping instead of homemade?

Yes, store-bought whipped topping works perfectly in this recipe.

How do I crush the cookies for the crust?

Place the cookies in a food processor or a sealed plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin until fine crumbs form.

Can I use other fruits besides strawberries?

Absolutely! Blueberries, raspberries, or peaches can be used as alternatives to strawberries.

Is this dessert suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this dessert is vegetarian-friendly.

Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?

Yes, you can substitute vanilla wafers with graham crackers or shortbread cookies for a different flavor.

How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?

Ensure the crust is pressed firmly into the dish and refrigerated before adding the layers to help it set properly.

Can I add nuts to the dessert?

Yes, chopped nuts like almonds or pecans can be sprinkled on top for added crunch and flavor.

Is this dessert suitable for a crowd?

Yes, this recipe serves 12 and can be easily doubled for larger gatherings.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor, but thawed frozen strawberries can be used if necessary.

Conclusion

The Strawberry Shortcake Lush is a delightful and refreshing dessert that's perfect for any occasion. Its creamy layers, sweet strawberries, and crunchy crust make it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it's easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient choice for busy hosts.

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