Description
Strawberry Delight is a refreshing no-bake layered dessert featuring macerated fresh strawberries, creamy sweetened cream cheese, and whipped heavy cream assembled with ladyfinger cookies or sponge cake. Perfect for a light and elegant treat, this dessert requires minimal prep and chilling time, making it an ideal choice for warm weather or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Strawberries
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped Cream
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
Base
- 1 box store-bought or homemade ladyfinger cookies or sponge cake pieces
Instructions
- Macerate Strawberries: In a bowl, combine sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Toss gently to coat and let sit for at least 30 minutes to release juices and soften the fruit.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sifted powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
- Whip Cream: In a separate chilled bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form, ensuring a light and airy texture.
- Combine Cream Cheese and Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined and smooth, taking care not to deflate the whipped cream.
- Assemble the Layers: In your serving dish or individual glasses, start with a layer of ladyfinger cookies or sponge cake pieces. Spoon some macerated strawberries along with their juices over the base. Spread a layer of the cream cheese whipped topping over the strawberries. Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of the cream topping.
- Chill: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, top with additional fresh strawberries or a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra burst of freshness and color.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh, ripe strawberries to enhance natural sweetness and flavor.
- You can substitute ladyfinger cookies with sponge cake pieces as preferred.
- Ensure the heavy cream is well chilled before whipping for optimal volume.
- This dessert can be prepared a day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- Adjust sugar quantity based on the sweetness of the strawberries and personal preference.
