No-bake desserts are a lifesaver, especially during hot summer days when you want a sweet treat without heating up the kitchen. This no-bake strawberry cake is perfect for those occasions. It's simple to make, requires minimal ingredients, and results in a refreshing, light dessert that's sure to impress.
Ingredients and Amounts
Main Ingredients
- Strawberries: Fresh and juicy strawberries are the star of this cake.
- Crust: A buttery graham cracker crust forms the base.
- Filling: A creamy mixture that pairs perfectly with the strawberries.
Detailed Measurements
Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
Topping:
- 1 lb fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup strawberry jam
Preparation Steps
Prepare the Crust
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
- Add the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are well-coated.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
Make the Filling
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
Assemble the Cake
- Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the chilled crust.
- Arrange the sliced strawberries on top of the filling in a circular pattern.
Chill the Cake
- Warm the strawberry jam slightly to make it easier to spread.
- Brush the jam over the strawberries to give a glossy finish.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow it to set properly.
Nutritional Value
Caloric Information
- Total Calories per Serving: Approximately 300 calories
Macronutrient Breakdown
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Proteins: 4g
- Fats: 20g
Vitamins and Minerals
- Vitamin C: From strawberries
- Calcium: From cream cheese and heavy cream
- Iron: From graham cracker crumbs
This no-bake strawberry cake is a delightful and refreshing dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With its creamy filling and fresh strawberry topping, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone. Plus, the no-bake aspect makes it a go-to recipe when you want to keep things simple and cool.