No Bake Strawberry Shortcake Dessert (Print)

Tender shortbread layered with whipped cream filling and macerated fresh strawberries. No oven needed for this easy chilled dessert.

# Ingredient list:

→ 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 (approx 10.5 oz)
08 - Extra strawberries for garnish (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Toss sliced strawberries with granulated sugar in a bowl. Let sit for 10–15 minutes until they release their juices, creating a macerated fruit mixture.
02 - Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until completely smooth and no lumps remain.
03 - In a separate chilled bowl, whip cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated and smooth.
04 - Line the bottom of a 9 x 9 inch square dish with half of the shortbread cookies, arranging them in a single even layer.
05 - Spread half of the cream mixture evenly over the cookie base. Top with half of the macerated strawberries, including their juices.
06 - Repeat the layering process with remaining cookies, cream mixture, and strawberries. Finish with strawberries on top.
07 - Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow cookies to soften and flavors to meld together.
08 - Garnish with additional fresh strawberries if desired. Slice into squares and serve cold directly from the refrigerator.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Its the ultimate make ahead dessert for hot days when you absolutely cannot bear to bake
  • The cookies transform into cake like layers that perfectly balance the bright juicy strawberries
02 -
  • The chilling time is not optional it is what transforms this from a pile of ingredients into something cohesive and wonderful
  • Letting the strawberries sit with sugar is the secret to that natural strawberry syrup that makes every bite incredible
03 -
  • The cookies will continue softening in the fridge so if you want some crunch do not make it more than 24 hours ahead
  • Use a spatula to gently press down on each layer as you go to remove any air pockets

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