Looking for a quick, show-stopping dessert that doesn’t require an oven? No Bake Strawberry Delight is a layered treat with a buttery graham cracker crust, fresh strawberries, creamy no-bake cheesecake, and fluffy homemade whipped cream. It’s simple to make, visually stunning, and perfect for summer gatherings, parties, or anytime you crave something sweet and refreshing. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything from the ingredients to assembly, plus tips to make it even more delicious and Instagram-worthy.
For more dessert inspiration, check out our easy no-bake recipes that are perfect for summer.
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Ingredients for No Bake Strawberry Delight

Creating the perfect No Bake Strawberry Delight starts with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Crust
- 2 cups (240g) graham cracker crumbs (premade or homemade)
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 16 ounces (452g) full-fat cream cheese, room temperature
- ¼ cup (48g) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup (236ml) heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup (65g) powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons instant strawberry Jell-o mix
- 2 lbs (32oz) fresh strawberries, washed and dried
For the Topping
- 1 cup (236ml) heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup (65g) powdered sugar
These ingredients are straightforward but crucial for achieving the creamy, fruity, and perfectly sweet layers that make this dessert irresistible.
Step-by-Step Preparation
Preparing the Strawberries
Wash and dry all strawberries thoroughly. Remove the stems. Dice one cup of strawberries into small pieces (about the size of a dime) for the cheesecake layer. Slice the remaining strawberries lengthwise for the base layer. Pat dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture.
Making the Graham Cracker Crust
Grind graham crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor or blender. Combine with melted butter, mixing until fully coated. Press the mixture evenly into a 9×9 pan and refrigerate while preparing the filling.
Preparing the Whipped Cream
Chill the mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for 5–10 minutes. Beat heavy cream until soft peaks form. Add powdered sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
Making the Cheesecake Filling
Beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in the prepared whipped cream gently with a spatula. Divide the mixture in half. To one half, add strawberry Jell-o and 1 cup of diced strawberries, mixing until combined.
Tips for Success
- Dry strawberries thoroughly: This prevents the dessert from becoming watery.
- Alternative toppings: Try strawberry-flavored whipped cream for extra fruity sweetness.
- Time-saving hacks: Use Cool Whip instead of homemade whipped cream for filling and topping if short on time.
Assembling Your No Bake Strawberry Delight
Once all your ingredients are prepped, it’s time to bring this dessert to life. Proper assembly ensures a beautiful layered dessert that wows both the eyes and taste buds.
Step 1: Layer the Strawberries
Start by arranging the sliced strawberries evenly over the graham cracker crust. Overlap slightly to fill gaps and create a full, colorful base layer. This layer adds freshness and a natural sweetness to the dessert.
Step 2: Add the Plain Cheesecake Filling
Spread the plain cheesecake filling gently over the strawberry layer. Use a spatula to smooth it out, ensuring even coverage. This creamy layer balances the tartness of the strawberries and adds that classic cheesecake flavor.
Step 3: Add the Strawberry Cheesecake Filling
Next, spread the strawberry cheesecake filling over the plain layer. This layer, enriched with diced strawberries and strawberry Jell-o, gives the dessert its signature fruity flavor and vibrant pink color.
Step 4: Top with Whipped Cream
Prepare a second batch of whipped cream. Either pipe it decoratively using a piping bag and star tip or spread it evenly over the top. This final layer adds lightness and makes the dessert visually stunning.
Chilling and Serving
Refrigeration Time
For the perfect texture, chill the dessert in the refrigerator for 4–6 hours. This allows the layers to set properly and enhances the flavors. For best results, prepare it a day in advance so it’s fully set before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Slice with a sharp knife for clean layers.
- Garnish with extra fresh strawberries or a sprinkle of freeze-dried strawberry dust for a professional touch.
- Serve chilled for the ultimate refreshing summer treat.
Storage Tips for No Bake Strawberry Delight
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container. Best within 3 days, can last up to 5 days.
- Freezing: The dessert can be frozen, but omit the fresh strawberry layer to prevent a soggy crust. Add fresh strawberries on top when ready to serve.
- Make-ahead tip: Add whipped cream topping just before serving to maintain a light, fluffy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions About No Bake Strawberry Delight
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the dessert a day in advance. For the best texture, add the whipped cream topping right before serving. Chilling overnight allows the layers to set perfectly.
Can I substitute Cool Whip for homemade whipped cream?
Absolutely! Cool Whip can replace the homemade whipped cream in either the filling or the topping. Use one 8-ounce container for the filling and one for the topping to save prep time.
What if I can’t find strawberry Jell-o?
You can use freeze-dried strawberries instead. Grind 3 tablespoons into a fine powder and mix it into the cheesecake filling for a natural strawberry flavor.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Store in an airtight container. Best enjoyed within 3 days, but it can last up to 5 days. After 2 days, the crust may soften slightly, which is normal.
Can I freeze No Bake Strawberry Delight?
Yes! Skip the fresh strawberry layer on the crust to avoid sogginess. The strawberries in the cheesecake filling are fine. Once thawed, add fresh strawberries as a garnish before serving.
Nutrition Information (Per Slice)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 666 kcal |
| Fat | 48.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 53.8 g |
| Sugar | 35.1 g |
| Protein | 7.1 g |
| Sodium | 354 mg |
| Fiber | 3.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 137.8 mg |
This dessert is rich and indulgent—perfect for special occasions or a sweet summer treat.
Final Tips for the Best No Bake Strawberry Delight
- Dry the strawberries well to prevent a soggy dessert.
- Layer carefully for visually stunning slices.
- Customize flavors: Try strawberry whipped cream or swap strawberries with raspberries for a twist.
- Prep in advance: Make the crust and filling ahead to save time on the day of serving.
For more dessert inspiration, check out our strawberry dessert recipes and discover easy ways to elevate your summer treats.
Conclusion
No Bake Strawberry Delight is a refreshing, easy-to-make dessert that combines creamy cheesecake, fresh strawberries, and fluffy whipped cream over a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for summer parties or anytime you want a no-fuss dessert, this layered treat will impress your family and friends while keeping your kitchen cool. By following these tips and techniques, your dessert will look beautiful, taste amazing, and become a favorite in your recipe collection.
PrintNo Bake Strawberry Delight
No Bake Strawberry Delight is a layered dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, fresh strawberries, creamy no-bake cheesecake, and fluffy homemade whipped cream. It’s an easy, refreshing summer dessert perfect for parties and gatherings.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 9-12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups (240g) graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
- 16 ounces (452g) full-fat cream cheese, room temperature
- ¼ cup (48g) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup (236ml) heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup (65g) powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons instant strawberry Jell-o mix
- 2 lbs (32oz) fresh strawberries, washed and dried
- 1 cup (236ml) heavy whipping cream for topping
- ½ cup (65g) powdered sugar for topping
Instructions
- Prep the strawberries: wash, dry, remove stems, dice 1 cup for filling, slice remaining for crust layer.
- Make the graham cracker crust: combine crumbs and melted butter, press into a 9×9 pan, refrigerate.
- Prepare whipped cream: chill bowl, beat heavy cream until soft peaks, add powdered sugar, beat until stiff peaks, set aside.
- Make cheesecake filling: beat cream cheese, sugar, lemon juice, vanilla until smooth, fold in whipped cream.
- Divide filling: half plain, half with strawberry Jell-o and diced strawberries.
- Assemble dessert: layer sliced strawberries on crust, spread plain cheesecake filling, then strawberry cheesecake filling, top with whipped cream.
- Chill 4-6 hours or overnight before serving.
Notes
- Dry strawberries thoroughly to prevent watery dessert.
- Optional: use strawberry-flavored whipped cream for extra flavor.
- Cool Whip can replace homemade whipped cream to save time.
- Freeze-dried strawberries can substitute for strawberry Jell-o if unavailable.
- Add whipped cream topping just before serving for best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 666
- Sugar: 35.1 g
- Sodium: 354 mg
- Fat: 48.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 31 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 53.8 g
- Fiber: 3.5 g
- Protein: 7.1 g
- Cholesterol: 137.8 mg
