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This dreamy layered dessert brings together the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the fresh juicy sweetness of strawberries. Each spoonful delivers the perfect balance of crumbly graham crackers, smooth cheesecake filling, and bursts of berry goodness. I call it my "summer savior" because it requires zero oven time while still impressing at every gathering.
I first created this recipe for my daughter's graduation party during a heatwave. The dessert disappeared faster than anything else on the table, and now it's requested at every family gathering from May through September.
Ingredients
- Graham crackers: provide the perfect crumbly foundation with their honey sweetness and slight salt
- Cream cheese: choose full fat for the richest flavor and creamiest texture
- Granulated sugar: balances the tanginess of the cream cheese without overpowering
- Heavy whipping cream: creates that light airy texture that makes each bite melt in your mouth
- Vanilla extract: adds depth and warmth to the filling
- Fresh strawberries: the star of the show look for bright red berries with no white shoulders for maximum flavor
- Lemon juice: brightens the strawberry sauce and enhances the natural berry flavor
- Cornstarch: optional but helpful for creating a glossy thickened sauce that doesn't make the layers soggy
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the crust:
- Crush graham crackers into fine even crumbs using a food processor for best results. You want them fine enough to hold together when pressed but not powdery. The texture of your crust forms the foundation of the entire dessert so take your time with this step.
- Create the cheesecake filling:
- Beat cream cheese and sugar together for a full 3 minutes until completely smooth with no lumps remaining. The mixture should be light and fluffy before moving forward. Room temperature cream cheese is absolutely essential here to avoid a lumpy filling.
- Incorporate the whipped cream:
- Gently fold in whipped cream using a large rubber spatula with a light hand. Use an under and over motion rather than stirring to maintain as much air as possible in the mixture. This creates that cloud like texture that makes the dessert so special.
- Prepare the strawberry sauce:
- Macerate strawberries with sugar and lemon juice until they release their juices. For a thicker sauce heat gently with cornstarch but allow to cool completely before assembly. The natural pectin in the berries will help the sauce set up beautifully in the refrigerator.
- Assemble the layers:
- Begin with graham crackers arranged in a single layer covering the entire bottom of your dish. Spread cream cheese mixture evenly using an offset spatula for clean layers. Arrange strawberry slices in a single overlapping pattern for the prettiest presentation. Drizzle sauce carefully over the berries allowing it to fill any gaps.
- Chill thoroughly:
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours but preferably overnight to allow the graham crackers to soften slightly and the filling to firm up properly. This resting time lets the flavors meld and creates that perfect sliceable texture.
My favorite part of this recipe is watching people's reactions to their first bite. My grandmother who rarely eats sweets always asks for seconds of this dessert claiming the fresh strawberries make it "practically a fruit salad." The way the graham crackers soften just slightly while maintaining structure reminds me of traditional tiramisu but with bright summer flavors.
Make It Your Own
This dessert welcomes creativity with open arms. Try swapping strawberries for raspberries or blackberries for a different flavor profile. Mixed berries create a beautiful multicolored effect that's especially stunning for holiday gatherings. For an adult version add a splash of strawberry liqueur to the sauce for sophisticated depth.
The base recipe can be adapted to countless flavor combinations. Try chocolate graham crackers with a tablespoon of cocoa powder in the filling for a chocolate strawberry version. Lemon zest in the cream cheese mixture brightens everything beautifully if you prefer a more tangy profile.
Storage Tips
Store leftover strawberry cheesecake lasagna covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The graham crackers will continue to soften over time but the dessert remains delicious. Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the fresh strawberries and cream will change significantly upon thawing.
If making ahead for a special occasion consider assembling everything except the final layer of strawberries and sauce. Add those fresh components just before serving for the most vibrant presentation. Cover tightly with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface of the cream cheese layer to prevent any film from forming.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dessert chilled straight from the refrigerator. Cut into neat squares using a knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between slices for the cleanest presentation. A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream and a perfect strawberry half make a simple but elegant garnish.
This dessert pairs beautifully with coffee or a glass of prosecco for adults. For a complete summer dessert spread serve alongside lemon sorbet and shortbread cookies. The contrast of temperatures and textures creates a memorable dessert experience that guests will talk about long after.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. In fact, chilling it overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- → What can I use instead of graham crackers?
You can substitute digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or any cookie of your choice for the graham crackers.
- → Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain them first, as they release extra moisture which may affect the layers.
- → How do I thicken the strawberry sauce?
You can use cornstarch dissolved in a little water. Heat gently with the sauce until it thickens to your liking.
- → Can I add other fruits to the layers?
Absolutely! Fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even kiwi can be added for a colorful twist and extra flavor variety.