Everyone has a secret weapon recipe in their kitchen arsenal, and for me, it’s this Easy Frozen Strawberry Dessert. Let me take you back to a sweltering summer day, the kind when the air feels thick and the sun refuses to give any respite. On such days, my family would gather around the kitchen, craving something refreshing yet satisfying. That’s when this strawberry delight would come to the rescue. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a cherished family tradition, a delightful escape from the heat, and a taste of summer in every bite.
I remember the first time I made it. We had just come back from a family outing at the local berry farm, our baskets brimming with strawberries that were begging to be transformed into something special. I was looking for a recipe that was both easy and impressive, and stumbled upon this gem. With just a few ingredients and no need for an oven, it was perfect for a hot day. The kids gathered around, eager to help, while I savored the joy of sharing this moment with them.
The beauty of this dessert lies in its simplicity. The crunchy graham cracker layer, perfectly sweetened with a touch of sugar and butter, complements the creamy, dreamy strawberry filling. The magic happens when you blend those juicy strawberries into a smooth puree, infusing the entire dessert with their fresh, vibrant flavor. It’s a harmony of textures and tastes that never fails to delight.
Now, whenever we have family gatherings or want to treat ourselves to something special, this frozen strawberry dessert finds its way back onto our table. It’s become a beloved tradition, one I look forward to every summer. So, why not try it out yourself? Gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this delicious adventure. I promise it’s worth every bite.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 22 full sheets)
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 6 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup diced strawberries
- 2 1/2 cups whole strawberries
Directions:
- Lightly coat a 9 x 13 inch pan with non-stick spray and put it aside.
- Combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl. Push half of this mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan, saving the other half for the topping.
- Blend the whole strawberries in a blender until they are smooth and set them aside.
- Whip the heavy cream in a mixing bowl, starting on low speed for a minute, then increasing to high speed until stiff peaks form, about 4 minutes. Put this aside as well.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar on low speed until creamy. Mix in the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and pureed strawberries until well combined.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the strawberry mixture, ensuring it’s well mixed. Add in the diced strawberries.
- Spread this strawberry mixture over the graham cracker crust in the pan evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining graham cracker mixture on top as a final layer.
Creative Substitutions to Suit Your Taste
If you’re missing an ingredient or two, don’t worry. You can swap graham cracker crumbs with crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream in place of heavy whipping cream and use dairy-free cream cheese. Agave syrup can be a substitute for sweetened condensed milk if you’re aiming to cut down on refined sugar.
Best Ways to Store Frozen Strawberry Dessert
To keep your frozen strawberry dessert fresh, cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be left in the freezer for up to two weeks. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to make slicing easier. Avoid refreezing leftovers, as they may lose their texture.
Perfect Pairings for Frozen Strawberry Dessert
This dessert pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. To add a touch of sophistication, serve with a glass of chilled rosé or sparkling lemonade. If you’re planning a full meal, this dessert is a delicious finale to a light summer salad or a grilled entrée.
Mastering the Art of This Dessert
Ensure your cream cheese is softened for a smooth mix; leaving it at room temperature for an hour does the trick. When whipping cream, be patient and don’t rush it—stiff peaks are key to the dessert’s texture. If strawberries aren’t in season, frozen ones are a great alternative, just thaw them before blending.
Seasonal Twists for Easy Frozen Strawberry Dessert
In spring, add a handful of fresh mint leaves for a refreshing twist. During autumn, a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce can add warmth. In winter, top with toasted nuts for added crunch. Let the seasons inspire you to keep this dessert exciting all year round.
FAQs:
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Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess water before blending. This will help maintain the dessert’s creamy texture and prevent it from becoming too watery.
Is there a way to make this dessert gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs. Make sure the other ingredients, such as the cream cheese and condensed milk, are also gluten-free certified. This way, everyone can enjoy this delightful treat without worry.
How long does the dessert need to freeze before serving?
For best results, freeze the dessert for at least 4 hours. This allows it to set completely and ensures the layers come together perfectly. If you’re making it ahead, you can also let it freeze overnight. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
What if I don’t have a blender?
If a blender isn’t available, you can mash the strawberries using a potato masher or fork. This will give you a chunkier texture, which can be a nice variation. Alternatively, you can purchase pre-pureed strawberries from the store for a quick and easy solution.
Can I add other fruits to this dessert?
Yes, you can experiment with different fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or even mangos. Simply puree them with the strawberries or use them as a topping. Be mindful of the additional moisture they might add, and adjust the other ingredients accordingly to maintain the dessert’s structure.
Is it possible to make this dessert ahead of time?
Definitely! This dessert is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it the day before your event and let it freeze overnight. It’s a stress-free way to enjoy a delicious homemade treat without any last-minute preparation. Just don’t forget to allow it some time to soften before serving.
Easy Frozen Strawberry Dessert
Equipment
- 9 x 13 inch pan
- blender
- Mixing bowls
- electric mixer
Ingredients
Crust:
- 3 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 22 full sheets)
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter melted
- 6 tablespoons granulated sugar
Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup diced strawberries
- 2 1/2 cups whole strawberries
Instructions
- Begin by greasing a 9 x 13 inch pan with non-stick spray and set it aside.
For the Crust:
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press half of this mixture into the prepared pan, keeping the other half for later use.
For the Filling:
- Puree the whole strawberries in a blender for about 1-2 minutes until completely smooth and set aside.
- In another bowl, whip the heavy cream at low speed for about a minute. Increase to high speed and continue whipping until stiff peaks form, which usually takes around 4 minutes. Set this aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the cream cheese and powdered sugar on low speed until creamy. Then incorporate the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and pureed strawberries, beating until smooth.
- Carefully fold the whipped cream into the strawberry mixture until well combined, then add in the diced strawberries.
- Spread the strawberry filling evenly over the graham cracker base in the pan.
- Top with the remaining graham cracker crumbs.
- Freeze until ready to serve and enjoy this refreshing dessert!
