No Bake Strawberry Shortcake Dessert (Print Version)

Layers of buttery shortbread, velvety cream filling, and sweet juicy strawberries come together in this effortless chilled treat.

# What You'll Need:

→ Strawberries

01 - 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
02 - 2 tbsp granulated sugar

→ Cream Layer

03 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
04 - 1/2 cup powdered sugar
05 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
06 - 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold

→ Base & Assembly

07 - about 30 shortbread cookies or vanilla wafer cookies
08 - extra strawberries for garnish (optional)

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Toss sliced strawberries with granulated sugar in a bowl. Let stand for 10-15 minutes until they release their juices, creating a natural strawberry syrup.
02 - Beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until completely smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
03 - In a separate chilled bowl, whip cold heavy cream using electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Do not overwhip.
04 - Gently fold whipped cream into cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Fold until just incorporated and no white streaks remain.
05 - Line bottom of 9 x 9 inch square dish with half the cookies, arranging them in a single layer.
06 - Spread half the cream mixture evenly over cookie base using offset spatula.
07 - Distribute half the macerated strawberries and their juices over cream layer.
08 - Create second layer with remaining cookies, followed by remaining cream mixture, and finish with remaining strawberries and juices.
09 - Cover dish tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate minimum 2 hours or overnight for cookies to soften and flavors to meld.
10 - If desired, garnish top with additional fresh strawberry slices before serving. Cut into squares and serve cold.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • No oven means your kitchen stays cool even on the hottest days
  • The cookies soften into cake like layers that melt in your mouth
02 -
  • Do not rush the chilling time or the cookies will still be crunchy instead of perfectly tender
  • Fold the whipped cream in gently to keep the filling light and airy
03 -
  • Whip the cream to stiff peaks before folding it keeps the filling from collapsing
  • Use a glass dish to see those beautiful layers through the sides

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