Strawberry Cream Delight 🍓🍰
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs 🥄
1/4 cup granulated sugar 🍬
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted 🧈
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream 🍶
8 oz cream cheese, softened 🧀
1/2 cup powdered sugar 🍭
1 tsp vanilla extract 🌼
2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced 🍓
1/4 cup granulated sugar 🍬
1 tbsp lemon juice 🍋
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening) 💧
Extra whipped cream for garnish 🍦
Fresh strawberries or mint leaves for garnish 🌿
Directions:
1. Let’s kick things off by making the crust! In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Pour in that melted butter and mix until it looks like wet sand. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of an 8-inch square dish. Pop it in the fridge while we move on!
2. Now it’s time to whip some cream! In a large, chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set it aside and let it rest for a bit.
3. Next up, prepare the cream cheese layer. In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until it's smooth and creamy. Gently fold in that delicious whipped cream until everything is fully combined and fluffy.
4. Spoon the cream mixture over the chilled crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Place it back in the fridge to firm up slightly while we make the strawberry topping.
5. Let’s make that irresistible strawberry topping! In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until those berries release their juices and soften. If you prefer a thicker topping, stir in the cornstarch-water mixture and simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened. Allow it to cool completely.
6. Once your strawberry topping is cool, gently spread it over the cream layer. Cover the dessert and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best results.
7. When you're ready to serve, slice it into squares. Dollop with whipped cream and add fresh strawberries or mint leaves on top for that perfect finishing touch. Enjoy it chilled!
Enjoy!