A luscious, no-bake dessert layered with creamy cheesecake pudding, fluffy whipped topping, and fresh, juicy strawberries. This easy and refreshing treat is perfect for summer gatherings, family get-togethers, or anytime you crave something light yet indulgent. Every bite is a balance of creamy, sweet, and fruity perfection.
Servings:
12–15
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Chill Time:
4–6 hours (or overnight for best texture)
Total Time:
~6 hours 20 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 pounds strawberries, washed, hulled, and sliced ¼ inch thick
- 2 sleeves graham crackers
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 (3.4 oz each) packages instant cheesecake-flavored pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- 1 (12 oz) carton whipped topping, divided
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sweetened condensed milk and mix until fully combined and lump-free.
- Add the pudding mix and milk, and continue mixing for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Fold in half of the whipped topping gently with a spatula until fully incorporated.
Step 2: Layer the Dessert
- In a 9×13-inch dish, spread a thin layer of the cream mixture to coat the bottom.
- Arrange a single layer of graham crackers over the cream. Break crackers if necessary to cover the dish completely.
- Spread about one-third of the cream mixture evenly over the crackers.
- Add a layer of strawberries, making sure to cover the cream completely.
- Repeat the process—graham crackers, cream, and strawberries—until you’ve used up all the ingredients, finishing with a layer of strawberries on top.
Step 3: Chill
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight, to allow the graham crackers to soften into a cake-like texture.
Step 4: Finish & Serve
- Just before serving, spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over the top layer of strawberries or serve it on the side.
- Optionally, garnish with extra strawberry slices or crushed graham crackers for presentation.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Tips for Best Results
- Make Ahead: This dessert actually tastes better after sitting overnight as the flavors meld and the graham crackers soften perfectly.
- Lighter Version: Use light cream cheese, fat-free condensed milk, and sugar-free pudding mix.
- Flavor Variations: Substitute strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or peaches for a fun twist.
- High-Protein Upgrade: Add one scoop of unflavored or vanilla whey protein to the pudding mixture to boost the protein content without altering flavor.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: You can freeze it for up to 2 weeks; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
(Approximate, based on 12 servings)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Sugar: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
