Recipe

Easy Frozen Strawberry Dessert

Written by Daou Nourdine

 

Easy Frozen Strawberry Dessert

A refreshing, make-ahead treat that blends creamy layers, juicy berries, and a buttery graham cracker crust—this Easy Frozen Strawberry Dessert is the perfect sweet escape on a hot day. Ideal for potlucks, family dinners, or cookouts, it’s a no-bake classic everyone will rave about!

Why You’ll Love This Dessert

  • No oven required – ideal for summer!
  • Make-ahead convenience – prepare it a day in advance.
  • Light, airy texture with bursts of real strawberry flavor.
  • Perfect for crowds – made in a 9×13 pan for easy sharing.

 Ingredients & Their Purpose

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs – forms the crunchy base and topping.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar – sweetens the crust just right.
  • 1/2 cup melted butter – binds the crust and adds richness.
  • 2 1/2 cups whole strawberries – for purée; delivers vibrant berry flavor and color.
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream – whipped for a light, fluffy texture.
  • 8 oz cream cheese (softened) – adds tangy creaminess to the filling.
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar – blends smoothly into the cream cheese for sweetness.
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk – provides smooth, rich sweetness and stability.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor.
  • 1/2 cup diced strawberries – adds texture and bursts of fresh fruit in every bite.

 How to Make Easy Frozen Strawberry Dessert

  1. Prepare the Crust:
    Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until it resembles wet sand. Press half of the mixture into the pan to form a firm, even base. Reserve the other half for the topping.
  2. Make the Strawberry Purée:
    Add 2 1/2 cups whole strawberries to a blender or food processor. Blend for 1–2 minutes until smooth. Set aside.
  3. Whip the Cream:
    In a clean bowl, beat 1 cup of heavy whipping cream. Start on low speed for 1 minute, then beat on high until stiff peaks form (about 3–4 minutes).
  4. Mix the Creamy Filling:
    In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Add sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and the strawberry purée. Beat until fully blended.
  5. Fold and Combine:
    Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture with a spatula until fully incorporated. Stir in the diced strawberries.
  6. Assemble and Freeze:
    Pour the filling over the graham cracker crust and spread evenly. Sprinkle the reserved graham cracker mixture on top. Cover tightly and freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight.

 Pro Tips for Success

  • Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for smooth blending.
  • Use cold whipping cream straight from the fridge for best volume.
  • Use ripe, in-season strawberries for the best flavor.
  • For easier slicing, let the dessert sit at room temp for 10 minutes before cutting.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this frozen strawberry dessert on its own, or pair with:

  • A dollop of whipped cream and a fresh mint sprig
  • Drizzle of strawberry or chocolate syrup
  • Vanilla ice cream on the side for a double-cold treat

Final Thoughts

This Easy Frozen Strawberry Dessert is a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing classic that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. With layers of crunchy crust, velvety strawberry cream, and juicy fruit, it’s a dessert that never fails to impress. Make it once, and it’ll earn a permanent spot in your summer recipe rotation. Refreshing, make-ahead, and incredibly easy—this dessert is pure frozen perfection!

 

About the author

Daou Nourdine