The Ultimate Strawberry Dessert: No Fresh Berries or Artificial Flavors Needed

By boom Last updated May 7, 2025

Craving a luscious strawberry dessert but fresh strawberries are out of season or unavailable? No problem! You can still indulge in a delightful strawberry treat that captures the essence of summer without relying on fresh berries or artificial flavorings. This recipe utilizes pantry-friendly ingredients to deliver a rich, creamy, and authentic strawberry flavor that will impress your taste buds and guests alike.

🍓 Ingredients:

For the Strawberry Base:

1 cup freeze-dried strawberries
1/2 cup strawberry jam or preserves (preferably with real fruit pieces)

1/4 cup water
1 tablespoon lemon juicePinterest

For the Creamy Filling:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping creamUpstate Ramblings+4Pinterest+4Google Cloud Storage+4 In Bloom Bakery

For the Crust:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

🧁 Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:

In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
Add melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan or a pie dish.

Refrigerate the crust while preparing the filling.Log in or sign up to view+2What the Fork+2Butternut Bakery+2

2. Create the Strawberry Base:

In a food processor or blender, pulse the freeze-dried strawberries until they become a fine powder.
In a small saucepan, combine the strawberry powder, strawberry jam, water, and lemon juice.

Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.

3. Make the Creamy Filling:

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
Fold in the cooled strawberry base until the mixture is uniformly pink and smooth.

4. Assemble the Dessert:

Pour the strawberry cream filling over the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.

5. Serve:

Once set, remove the dessert from the refrigerator.

If using a springform pan, carefully remove the sides.
Slice and serve chilled.
Optional: Garnish with additional freeze-dried strawberry pieces or a dollop of whipped cream.loembmiej.blob.core.windows.net+4Reddit+4Your Cup of Cake+4 Log in or sign up to view

🍰 Tips and Variations:

Alternative Crusts: For a different flavor profile, consider using crushed vanilla wafers or chocolate cookies instead of graham crackers.
Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of sugar in the filling to suit your taste preferences.
Layered Dessert: Create a layered parfait by alternating layers of the strawberry cream filling with crushed cookies in individual serving glasses.

Storage: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

🌟 Why This Recipe Works:

This dessert captures the vibrant flavor of strawberries without relying on fresh fruit or artificial additives. The combination of freeze-dried strawberries and real fruit jam provides an intense strawberry taste, while the creamy filling offers a rich and satisfying texture. It’s an excellent option for year-round indulgence, regardless of strawberry season.

Enjoy this delightful strawberry dessert that’s both convenient and bursting with flavor, proving that you don’t need fresh berries to create a show-stopping treat!