Spread the love

Luscious Strawberry Dream Cheesecake offers the ultimate dessert experience, blending a buttery graham cracker crust with a creamy, strawberry-infused filling for a perfect Creamy Summer Dessert. This no-bake cheesecake is ideal for summer gatherings, special occasions, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. Follow this easy recipe to create a stunning treat that will wow your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love Luscious Strawberry Dream Cheesecake

I absolutely adore this Luscious Strawberry Dream Cheesecake because it combines the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the bright, sweet flavor of strawberries, making it a standout Creamy Summer Dessert. The no-bake method keeps things simple, while the layers of fresh strawberries and jam add a burst of flavor. Perfect for warm days or festive events, this cheesecake’s silky texture and vibrant taste make it a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients for Luscious Strawberry Dream Cheesecake

For the Crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

16 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 cup heavy cream, whipped
½ cup strawberry jam or preserves
1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, diced

Equipment:

9-inch springform pan
Medium mixing bowl
Large mixing bowl
Electric mixer or whisk
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Plastic wrap

Ingredient Tips:

Graham Cracker Crumbs: Use store-bought or crush whole graham crackers; digestive biscuits work as an alternative.
Cream Cheese: Full-fat for richness; soften at room temperature for smooth blending.
Heavy Cream: Whip to stiff peaks for a light, airy filling; chill bowl and whisk for best results.
Strawberry Jam: Seedless for a smooth texture; homemade preserves for intense flavor.
Strawberries: Fresh for best texture; thaw and drain frozen strawberries if using.

Directions for Luscious Strawberry Dream Cheesecake

Let’s create this delightful Luscious Strawberry Dream Cheesecake!

Prepare the Crust

In a medium bowl, I mix 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and ½ cup melted butter until well combined.
I press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form a compact crust, then chill in the fridge for 15 minutes to set.

Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, I beat 16 oz softened cream cheese until smooth. I add ¼ cup powdered sugar and 1 tsp vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.
I gently fold in ¾ cup whipped heavy cream until no streaks remain, creating a light, fluffy mixture.

Assemble the Layers

I spread half the cream cheese filling over the chilled crust, smoothing it out.
I sprinkle ¾ cup diced strawberries over the layer, then add ¼ cup heavy cream and dollop ¼ cup strawberry jam in small spoonfuls.
I repeat with the remaining cream cheese filling, strawberries, heavy cream, and jam, creating a beautiful layered effect.

Chill and Set

I cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to ensure it firms up perfectly.

Serve

I carefully remove the Luscious Strawberry Dream Cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving plate.
I garnish with extra diced strawberries or a drizzle of melted chocolate, if desired, before slicing and serving chilled.

Nutrition

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: ~4 hours 30 minutes
Yield: 8–10 slices
Calories: ~400 kcal per slice (based on 10 slices)
Macros per Slice: 35g carbs, 5g protein, 28g fat, 1g fiber

Variations for Luscious Strawberry Dream Cheesecake

Try these twists on Luscious Strawberry Dream Cheesecake:

Berry Mix: Swap half the strawberries for raspberries or blueberries for a mixed Creamy Summer Dessert.
Chocolate Crust: Use chocolate sandwich cookie crumbs instead of graham crackers for a richer Creamy Summer Dessert.
Lemon Zest: Add 1 tsp lemon zest to the filling for a citrusy brightness.
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut whipped cream for an allergen-friendly version.
Mini Cheesecakes: Make individual portions in muffin tins for a party-friendly option.

Serving Ideas:

Pair with Layla Cooks’ Jalapeño Popper Quesadillas for a sweet-savory gathering.
Serve with iced coffee or sparkling rosé to complement the Creamy Summer Dessert.
Display on a cake stand with fresh berries for a stunning dessert table.

Storage

I store Luscious Strawberry Dream Cheesecake in an airtight container or tightly wrapped with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days, placing wrap directly on the cut surface to prevent drying. For freezing, I wrap the cheesecake (or individual slices) in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month; I thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. I keep it away from strong-smelling foods to avoid odor absorption and enjoy it within a few days for the freshest flavor.

Serving Tips

Chill Well: Serve chilled after at least 4 hours in the fridge for the best texture.
Slice Carefully: Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean for neat slices.
Garnish Creatively: Top with fresh strawberries, whipped cream, or a chocolate drizzle for elegance.
Serve Chilled: Keep refrigerated until serving to maintain creaminess.
Presentation: Place on a decorative platter or cake stand for a showstopping display.

FAQs About Luscious Strawberry Dream Cheesecake

Here are answers to some common questions about this recipe:

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones in this recipe?
Frozen strawberries can be used, but it’s recommended to thaw and drain them well before incorporating into the Luscious Strawberry Dream Cheesecake. Fresh strawberries provide the best texture and flavor, but frozen can work in a pinch with proper preparation.

How can I ensure my no-bake cheesecake sets properly?
To ensure your Luscious Strawberry Dream Cheesecake sets properly, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the cream cheese and whipped cream to firm up. Use full-fat cream cheese for structure and whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks before folding it in.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, this cheesecake can be made ahead of time. Prepare and assemble the cheesecake as directed, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving. This allows flavors to meld and ensures a perfectly chilled dessert.

How should I store leftover cheesecake?
Store any leftover Luscious Strawberry Dream Cheesecake in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap directly on the exposed surface to prevent it from drying out. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze the cheesecake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or placing it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Can I use a different type of crust?
Yes, you can swap the graham cracker crust for a chocolate cookie crust, shortbread crust, or even a nut-based crust for a different flavor in your Luscious Strawberry Dream Cheesecake. Ensure the crust is firmly packed to support the filling.

More Summer Dessert Ideas You’ll Love

Conclusion

This Luscious Strawberry Dream Cheesecake is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. With its creamy filling, sweet strawberries, and delightful crust, it’s a treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Happy baking!