Dreamy Layered Strawberry Delight (Easy Summer Treat!)

Hello fellow dessert lovers! Are you searching for that ultimate, no-fuss, showstopper strawberry dessert? Allow me to introduce you to a recipe that’s incredibly close to my heart: Strawberry Delight. This chilled, layered treat is every bit as dreamy and delicious as it sounds, featuring a buttery crust, a luscious cream cheese filling, sweet strawberry jello goodness, and fresh berries. It truly tastes like summer sunshine in every single bite!

This easy strawberry dessert has been a staple at my family gatherings for years, disappearing lightning-fast at every picnic, potluck, and BBQ. It’s cool, refreshing, and surprisingly simple to assemble. I’m absolutely thrilled to share this treasured recipe with you today – get ready for rave reviews!

❤️ Why You’ll Fall in Love With This Strawberry Delight

This *layered strawberry dessert* is more than just pretty; it’s absolutely irresistible! Here’s why:

• Layers of Pure Bliss: From the buttery shortbread base to the tangy cream cheese layer, fruity jello cream, and fluffy whipped topping – every layer is perfection.
• Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser: Seriously, this dessert is a guaranteed hit wherever you take it. Perfect *potluck dessert*!
• Cool & Refreshing: Served chilled, it’s the ideal antidote to warm weather cravings. A fantastic *summer dessert recipe*.
• Surprisingly Easy: While it looks impressive, the steps are straightforward and don’t require expert baking skills.
• Fresh Strawberry Flavor: Packed with fresh strawberries and strawberry jello, it’s bursting with fruity goodness.

🛒 Ingredients for Strawberry Delight

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful treat:

For the Buttery Shortbread Crust:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes

OR – Graham Cracker Crust Alternative:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 14-16 full crackers)
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
• Pinch of salt
• (See notes in instructions for baking this crust)

For the Creamy Layers & Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, fully softened (important for a smooth texture!)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
• ⅓ cup powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped

Want it Extra Creamy? Add another 8 oz package of softened cream cheese and increase the granulated sugar in this layer to ½ cup total.

For the Strawberry Jello Layer:

• 1 package (3 oz) Strawberry Jello mix
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (brightens the flavor!)

For the Topping:

• 1 container (8 oz) frozen whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed OR 1 cup heavy whipping cream whipped with 2 tbsp powdered sugar until stiff peaks form (homemade whipped cream)
• Extra fresh strawberries, sliced for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Note: Using fresh, ripe strawberries makes a big difference! You can learn more about selecting and storing strawberries to keep them fresh longer.

🧑‍🍳 How to Make Strawberry Delight (Step-by-Step)

Let’s build this beautiful *cream cheese strawberry dessert* layer by layer!

1. Make the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter. Using a pastry blender, two forks, or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture evenly and firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake for 25-28 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Let the crust cool completely in the dish on a wire rack. (If using Graham Cracker Crust: Mix crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and salt. Press into the dish. Bake at 350°F for 13-15 minutes. Cool completely.)
2. Prepare the Berries & First Cream Layer: Once the crust is completely cool, evenly spread the 2 cups of chopped fresh strawberries over it. Set aside. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy (make sure there are no lumps!). In a separate, chilled bowl, whip the cold heavy whipping cream and ⅓ cup powdered sugar with an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form. Gently fold about half of the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until just combined. Spread this cream cheese/whipped cream mixture evenly over the strawberries on the crust.
3. Make the Jello Cream Layer: Add the remaining plain whipped cream to the bowl with the remaining cream cheese mixture. Sprinkle the dry Strawberry Jello powder and the fresh lemon juice directly into the bowl. Gently fold everything together until the jello powder is fully incorporated and the mixture is evenly pink and mostly streak-free. (Don’t worry if it looks slightly speckled initially – it smooths out as it chills). Carefully spread this jello-cream layer over the first cream layer in the baking dish. Refrigerate for at least 10-15 minutes to let it set slightly.
4. Add Final Topping & Chill: Gently spread the thawed frozen whipped topping (or your homemade whipped cream) evenly over the set jello-cream layer, spreading all the way to the edges.
5. Chill Thoroughly: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better! This allows all the layers to set firmly and the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, garnish the top with fresh sliced strawberries, if desired. Slice into squares and serve chilled.

💡 Expert Tips for Success

• Completely Cool Crust: Ensure the crust is 100% cool before adding layers to prevent melting.
• Soften Cream Cheese Fully: Room temperature cream cheese is crucial for a smooth, lump-free filling. Leave it out for an hour or two before starting.
• Chill Between Layers (Optional but helpful): Brief chilling after the first cream layer and the jello-cream layer helps keep the layers distinct.
• Gentle Folding: Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream when folding it into the cream cheese mixtures.
• Chill Time is Key: Don’t rush the final chilling! At least 4 hours is needed for the dessert to set properly for clean slices. Overnight is best.
• Speckled Jello Layer?: As mentioned, slight speckles in the jello-cream layer are normal initially and will usually blend as it chills and sets.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

This Strawberry Delight is perfect on its own, but here are a few ideas:

• Serve alongside a cup of coffee or tea.
• Add an extra dollop of fresh whipped cream when serving.
• A light drizzle of chocolate syrup could be a fun twist for chocolate lovers.
• Perfect for brunches, BBQs, potlucks, holidays (like Easter or Mother’s Day), or any summer gathering.

🥡 How to Store Strawberry Delight

Keep leftover Strawberry Delight covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to 5 days.

Note: The fresh strawberries may release a little moisture after the first couple of days, which can soften the crust slightly, but the flavor remains fantastic!

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the cream cheese and jello layers can change significantly upon thawing.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are highly recommended for the best texture and flavor. If you must use frozen, thaw them completely and drain *very* well on paper towels to remove excess moisture before chopping and adding to the crust layer. Excess moisture can make the crust soggy.

Can I use sugar-free jello and whipped topping?

Yes, you can substitute sugar-free strawberry jello and sugar-free whipped topping if desired. You may also consider sugar substitutes in the cream cheese layer, adjusting amounts according to the product used.

Can I make this in a different size pan?

Yes, you can make it in an 8×8 or 9×9 inch square pan for thicker layers. You might need to adjust the crust baking time slightly (check earlier). A round springform pan could also work for a different presentation.

My jello layer didn’t set properly?

Ensure you used the correct amount of jello powder and incorporated it well. Also, make sure the dessert chills undisturbed for the full recommended time (at least 4 hours, preferably longer).

📖 More Delicious Dessert Recipes

If you loved this easy Strawberry Delight, check out these other reader favorites on StirDelish:

• Ultimate Easy Churro Cookies Recipe (Soft & Chewy!)
• Best Moist Greek Yogurt Chocolate Chip Muffins (Easy Recipe!)
• The Ultimate Guide to the Best Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Strawberry Delight truly lives up to its name. It’s a refreshing, beautiful, and utterly delicious dessert that brings smiles wherever it goes. From the buttery base to the fluffy topping, each layer offers a delightful texture and taste. It’s simple enough for any baker and guaranteed to be a hit. I hope this beloved family recipe brings joy to your table!