Treat yourself to a heavenly blend of creamy goodness and luscious strawberries with our Frozen Strawberries and Cream Dessert. This delectable frozen treat boasts layers of crunchy graham cracker crust, velvety cheesecake-like filling, and juicy strawberries, offering a refreshing and indulgent dessert experience. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply craving a delightful sweet treat, this recipe is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
- 4 graham cracker sheets
- ½ cup walnuts or pecans
- 10 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup flour
- 1 cup sugar, divided
- 2 egg whites, pasteurized
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- Juice of one lemon
- 2 cups strawberries, hulled and coarsely chopped
Directions:
- Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a food processor, pulse together graham cracker sheets and walnuts/pecans into fine crumbs.
- Transfer the crumb mixture into a bowl, add melted butter, flour, and 1/2 cup of sugar, and mix until thoroughly combined. Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Creamy Filling:
- In a medium bowl, using an electric hand mixer, beat egg whites and 1/2 cup of sugar until frothy, about 3 minutes. Add heavy cream and beat until soft peaks form.
- Add softened cream cheese and lemon juice, and mix until creamy. Gently fold in chopped strawberries.
- Assemble the Dessert:
- Press half of the cooled crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9 x 13 pan. Spread the strawberries and cream mixture evenly over the crust.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture on top of the strawberries and cream layer. Freeze the dessert for 3-6 hours, or overnight, until firm.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- When ready to serve, let the dessert sit out for 10 minutes before cutting into squares. Garnish with additional strawberries if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes (plus freezing time) | Servings: 12 | Calories: (Calories per serving may vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.)
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serve Chilled:
- For the best taste and texture, serve the Frozen Strawberries and Cream Dessert chilled directly from the freezer. The refreshing coldness enhances the flavors and makes it a perfect treat for warm weather days.
- Pre-cut Portions:
- Consider pre-cutting the dessert into squares before freezing for easier serving. This allows you to simply remove individual portions as needed without having to cut through the frozen layers.
- Garnish Before Serving:
- If desired, garnish the dessert with additional chopped strawberries or a drizzle of strawberry sauce just before serving to add a pop of color and extra freshness.
- Use a Sharp Knife:
- When cutting the frozen dessert into squares, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water to make clean and smooth cuts through the layers without crumbling or breaking.
- Store in an Airtight Container:
- Store any leftover portions of the Frozen Strawberries and Cream Dessert in an airtight container in the freezer to maintain freshness and prevent freezer burn. Make sure the container is tightly sealed to prevent any odors from affecting the taste of the dessert.
- Freezing Duration:
- The Frozen Strawberries and Cream Dessert can be stored in the freezer for up to 1-2 weeks. Beyond that, the texture and flavor may start to degrade.
- Thawing Before Serving:
- When ready to enjoy leftover portions, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes before serving. This allows the dessert to soften slightly for easier eating.
- Single-Serving Containers:
- Consider storing individual portions of the dessert in single-serving containers or resealable bags for convenient grab-and-go treats. This is ideal for portion control and ensures you always have a sweet treat on hand when cravings strike.
- Layered Dessert Cups:
- Alternatively, assemble the Frozen Strawberries and Cream Dessert in individual serving cups or jars for a stylish presentation. Layer the graham cracker crust, creamy filling, and strawberries in each cup before freezing.
- Personalize Portions:
- Customize the dessert by adding your favorite toppings or mix-ins before freezing, such as chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut. This allows you to tailor the dessert to your preferences and create unique flavor combinations.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy the Frozen Strawberries and Cream Dessert at its finest, whether you’re serving it to guests or indulging in a sweet treat for yourself.
Variations:
- Chocolate Drizzle:
- For a decadent twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the frozen dessert just before serving. Use dark, milk, or white chocolate according to your preference, and garnish with chocolate shavings for an extra touch of indulgence.
- Berry Medley:
- Mix different types of berries, such as raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries, into the creamy filling for a vibrant and fruity variation. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors adds depth to the dessert.
- Nutty Crunch:
- Add chopped nuts, such as almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios, to the graham cracker crust or sprinkle them on top of the dessert before freezing. The nutty crunch complements the creamy texture and adds a delightful contrast.
- Coconut Bliss:
- Incorporate shredded coconut into the creamy filling for a tropical twist. Toast the coconut flakes for added flavor and sprinkle them over the dessert for a touch of sweetness and texture.
- Lemon Berry Delight:
- Infuse the creamy filling with lemon zest and juice for a refreshing citrusy flavor. Layer the dessert with sliced strawberries and blueberries for a vibrant and tangy dessert bursting with summer flavors.
- Peanut Butter Swirl:
- Swirl creamy peanut butter into the filling mixture before freezing for a rich and indulgent variation. The combination of creamy cheesecake and peanut butter is a match made in dessert heaven.
- Mint Chocolate Chip:
- Add a few drops of mint extract to the creamy filling and fold in chocolate chips for a refreshing and minty twist on the classic dessert. Serve with a sprig of fresh mint for an extra burst of flavor.
- Coffee Infusion:
- Infuse the creamy filling with espresso powder or brewed coffee for a delightful coffee-flavored variation. Top the dessert with chocolate-covered coffee beans for an elegant finishing touch.
- Caramel Drizzle:
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the frozen dessert just before serving for a sweet and gooey addition. Sprinkle with sea salt for a perfect balance of flavors.
- Frozen Yogurt Parfait:
- Swap the creamy filling with layers of Greek yogurt mixed with honey or maple syrup for a lighter and tangy variation. Add granola or crushed cookies between the layers for extra crunch.
FAQs :
- Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
- Yes, frozen strawberries can be used in this recipe. Thaw them slightly before chopping and incorporating them into the creamy filling.
- Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the Frozen Strawberries and Cream Dessert in advance and store it in the freezer until ready to serve. Just make sure to thaw it slightly before cutting into squares.
- Can I use a different type of nut for the crust?
- Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite nuts, such as almonds, pecans, or cashews, to customize the graham cracker crust according to your taste preferences.
- Can I use whipped cream instead of heavy cream?
- While whipped cream can be used as a topping, heavy cream is preferred for the creamy filling as it provides a richer and smoother texture.
- Can I make this dessert vegan?
- Yes, you can make a vegan version of this dessert by using plant-based alternatives for ingredients like cream cheese and heavy cream. Experiment with vegan cream cheese and coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
- How long does it take for the dessert to freeze completely?
- The freezing time can vary depending on your freezer temperature, but typically, it takes about 3-6 hours for the dessert to freeze completely. It’s best to freeze it overnight for optimal results.
With its irresistible combination of crunchy graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake-like filling, and juicy strawberries, our Frozen Strawberries and Cream Dessert is a delightful treat for any occasion. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this frozen dessert is sure to become a favorite among family and friends. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply indulging in a sweet craving, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your dessert desires.