This dessert is no-bake, which means no need to heat up the oven—ideal for warm days or last-minute gatherings. The layered textures of crunchy crust, creamy filling, and juicy strawberries make every bite a delight. Plus, it’s easy to prepare in advance, travels well, and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Graham cracker crumbs
Melted butter
Granulated sugar
Cream cheese
Powdered sugar
Whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Strawberry pie filling or fresh sliced strawberries with glaze
Vanilla extract (optional)
Directions
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to form a crust. Chill while preparing the next layer.
Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract (if using), and mix well.
Fold in half of the whipped topping until fully incorporated and creamy.
Spread the cream cheese layer over the chilled crust evenly.
Spoon the strawberry pie filling (or glazed fresh strawberries) over the cream cheese layer.
Top with the remaining whipped topping, spreading gently to cover the strawberries.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
Slice and serve cold.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 12–15 servings. Prep time: 20 minutes Chill time: 4 hours Total time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Variations
Fruit swap: Replace strawberries with blueberries, cherries, or peaches.
Nutty crust: Add finely chopped pecans or almonds to the graham cracker crust for added crunch.
Chocolate version: Use chocolate graham crackers and drizzle chocolate syrup on top.
Lightened up: Use low-fat cream cheese and light whipped topping for a lighter dessert.
Mini delights: Assemble in individual cups for personal servings.
Storage/Reheating
Store No-Bake Strawberry Delight covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s best served chilled. This dessert does not freeze well, as the texture of the cream and fruit layers may change upon thawing.
FAQs
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought?
Yes, homemade whipped cream works great. Just make sure it’s stabilized if preparing in advance.
Can I make this dessert a day ahead?
Absolutely. It actually tastes better after chilling overnight, making it perfect for prepping ahead.
What type of cream cheese should I use?
Full-fat cream cheese offers the best texture and flavor, but low-fat versions can also be used.
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of pie filling?
Yes. Toss sliced fresh strawberries with a bit of sugar and cornstarch or glaze for a similar effect.
How do I prevent the layers from mixing?
Make sure each layer is chilled and firm before adding the next. Gently spread each layer to avoid mixing.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can use gluten-free graham crackers to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Can I use a different pan size?
You can use an 8×8 or 9×9 dish for a thicker dessert. Just note that it will yield fewer servings.
How long does it need to chill?
At least 4 hours, but overnight chilling gives the best results for clean layers and full flavor.
Can I use other crust options?
Yes, try a vanilla wafer or shortbread crust for a slightly different base flavor.
What’s the best way to cut clean slices?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between each cut for neat, tidy slices.
Conclusion
No-Bake Strawberry Delight is the perfect dessert when you want something easy, refreshing, and downright delicious. With its creamy layers, sweet strawberry topping, and buttery crust, it’s a dish that pleases any crowd. Whether for a summer barbecue or a holiday table, this dessert never disappoints.
No-Bake Strawberry Delight is a refreshing layered dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cream cheese filling, sweet strawberry topping, and fluffy whipped topping. It’s easy to make, requires no baking, and is perfect for warm weather or gatherings.
Ingredients
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup melted butter
1/4 cup granulated sugar
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
16 oz whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip), divided
1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling or 2 cups fresh sliced strawberries with glaze
Instructions
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until well combined.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to form the crust. Chill while preparing the next layer.
In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract (if using), and mix well.
Fold in half of the whipped topping until fully combined and creamy.
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
Spoon strawberry pie filling or glazed fresh strawberries over the cream cheese layer.
Top with the remaining whipped topping, spreading gently to cover the strawberries.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
Slice and serve cold.
Notes
Use homemade stabilized whipped cream as a substitute for store-bought topping.Chill each layer before adding the next to maintain clean layers.Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean slices.This dessert does not freeze well; store only in the refrigerator.Swap strawberries with other fruits like cherries, blueberries, or peaches for variety.Use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free version.
