The magic of this dessert lies in balance. Each layer plays an important role:
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Cake or cookie base absorbs moisture from the strawberries, becoming soft and tender.
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Fresh strawberries bring brightness, sweetness, and natural juiciness.
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Creamy filling adds richness while keeping the dessert light and airy.
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Chilling time allows flavors to meld and textures to set perfectly.
Unlike traditional strawberry shortcake, this version improves as it rests, making it perfect for entertaining.
Preparation Overview
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 4–6 hours (overnight recommended)
Total Time: About 5 hours
Servings: 12–15
Ingredients
Strawberry Layer
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2 pounds fresh strawberries, washed, hulled, and sliced
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½ cup granulated sugar
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1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Cream Layer
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2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
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½ cup powdered sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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8 ounces cream cheese, softened
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1 cup sweetened condensed milk
Cake Layer (Choose One)
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1 store-bought pound cake, sliced into cubes
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1 prepared angel food cake, cubed
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2 packages vanilla wafer cookies
OR -
1 package ladyfinger cookies
Optional Toppings
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Additional sliced strawberries
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Crushed cookies
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White chocolate shavings
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Fresh mint leaves
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Place the sliced strawberries in a large bowl. Add the granulated sugar and lemon juice if using. Gently stir to coat all the strawberries evenly.
Allow the strawberries to sit for at least 15–20 minutes. This process draws out their natural juices and creates a light syrup that will soak into the cake layers beautifully.
Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth and free of lumps.
Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Beat again until the mixture is thick, silky, and fully combined.
In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. The whipped cream should be light and airy but not overwhipped.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Work slowly to maintain volume. The final filling should be smooth, fluffy, and stable.
Step 3: Prepare the Cake Layer
If using cake:
Cut the cake into 1-inch cubes.
If using cookies:
Leave whole or lightly crush, depending on your texture preference.
You want pieces large enough to hold structure but small enough to layer evenly.
Step 4: Assemble the Dessert
Choose a 9×13-inch glass dish or a deep trifle bowl.
First Layer:
Spread a single layer of cake or cookies across the bottom of the dish.
Second Layer:
Spoon about one-third of the strawberries over the cake, including some of the syrup.
Third Layer:
Spread one-third of the cream filling evenly over the strawberries.
Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with the cream layer on top.
Step 5: Garnish and Chill
Smooth the top layer neatly. Garnish with sliced strawberries, crushed cookies, or white chocolate shavings if desired.
Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Overnight chilling produces the best flavor and texture.
Texture and Flavor After Chilling
As the dessert rests:
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The cake softens into a tender, spoonable texture.
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Strawberry juices infuse each layer.
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The cream layer firms up just enough to slice cleanly.
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Flavors meld into a cohesive, balanced dessert.
This is why no-bake desserts are often better the next day.
Tips for Perfect Results
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Use ripe, sweet strawberries for best flavor.
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Do not skip the chilling time.
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Keep cream ingredients cold before mixing.
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Avoid overmixing the whipped cream.
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Use a clear dish for visual appeal when serving guests.
Variations
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Style
Add an extra 8 ounces of cream cheese to the filling for a denser, cheesecake-like texture.
Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake
Add a layer of chocolate ganache or chocolate chips between layers.
Lemon Strawberry Shortcake
Add lemon zest to the cream filling for a bright citrus note.
Low-Sugar Version
Reduce sugar in strawberries and use unsweetened whipped cream.
Individual Serving Option
This dessert works beautifully in individual cups or jars:
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Layer cake, strawberries, and cream in clear glasses.
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Chill and serve directly.
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Perfect for parties and portion control.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator:
Store covered for up to 3 days.
Freezer:
Not recommended, as fresh strawberries release excess water when thawed.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
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Calories: 380
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Fat: 24 g
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Carbohydrates: 36 g
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Protein: 5 g
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Sugar: 24 g
Values vary depending on ingredients used.
Why This Dessert Is Always a Crowd Favorite
This No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake Dessert checks every box:
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Easy to prepare
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No oven required
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Beautiful layered presentation
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Light yet indulgent
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Perfect for holidays, potlucks, and summer gatherings
It delivers the comforting flavors of traditional strawberry shortcake with modern convenience and elegance.
