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Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Strawberries: The star of this recipe! Always go for vibrant, ripe strawberries for the best flavor. If fresh ones aren’t available, you can use frozen strawberries but thaw them first and pat dry to avoid too much moisture.
Granulated Sugar: This helps sweeten the strawberries and balance other flavors. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using coconut sugar or even honey—keep in mind it might alter the flavor slightly!
Heavy Whipping Cream: This gives the dessert its rich, creamy texture. For a lighter option, you could use coconut cream instead—just chill the can and scoop out the solid cream on top, leaving the liquid behind.
Cream Cheese: Provides that creamy feel. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using a vegan cream cheese substitute. It won’t have the exact same taste but does mimic the texture nicely.
Graham Cracker Crumbs: They form the delicious crust. If you’re gluten-free, use crushed gluten-free cookies or almond flour for a similar crunch. You can also swap in crushed digestives or any sweet cookie you like!
How Do I Get the Perfect Whipped Cream?
Whipping cream can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can nail it! The key is to start with cold cream and a chilled bowl to help it whip better. Here’s how:
- Make sure your heavy cream is very cold—pop the bowl in the fridge for 10-15 mins before using it.
- Begin whipping on medium speed to incorporate air, then increase to high as it thickens.
- Stop when you see soft peaks; then slowly add powdered sugar and vanilla while continuing to whip.
- Whip until you form stiff peaks—over-beating can turn it into butter, so keep an eye on it!
How to Make Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Strawberry Mixture:
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of active prep time, plus at least 4 hours of chilling time (or overnight if you can!). It’s a simple process of mixing, layering, and letting the flavors come together—making it a perfect treat for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Strawberry Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with 1/2 cup of the granulated sugar. Give it a gentle stir to coat the strawberries in sugar. Set them aside for about 30 minutes. This will help the strawberries release their juices and make them extra yummy!
2. Whip the Cream:
In a separate mixing bowl, pour in the heavy whipping cream. Use a mixer to whip it until soft peaks form. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue whipping until you reach stiff peaks. This will make the cream fluffy and delicious!
3. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with the other 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until it’s nice and smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into this mixture until everything is well combined. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
4. Prepare the Crust:
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, mix the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until it’s all combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the dish to form the crust.
5. Layer the Mixtures:
Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the crust, then add half of the strawberry mixture on top of that. It’s all about the layers! Repeat this process with the remaining cream cheese mixture and strawberries for a beautiful presentation.
6. Chill and Allow to Set:
Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. If you have time, letting it chill overnight will make it even better. This step is crucial so that all the flavors meld together beautifully!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some additional graham cracker crumbs on top for a nice finishing touch. You can also add a few extra strawberries if you want to make it look even more appealing. Enjoy your delicious Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them well before mixing with sugar. Frozen strawberries tend to release more water, so it’s important to remove excess moisture to avoid a watery dessert!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Whipping Cream?
If you need a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or heavy coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just note that the texture may be slightly less creamy, but it will still be delicious!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the layers have begun to separate, just give it a gentle stir before serving to recombine those delicious flavors!
Can I Make This Dessert Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This dessert is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it a day in advance and keep it refrigerated overnight, which allows the flavors to develop even further. Just make sure to keep it covered!
