No-Bake Strawberry Cream Cheese Dessert

Introduction
Indulge in the delightful and refreshing flavors of this No-Bake Strawberry Cream Cheese Dessert, a perfect treat for warm days or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort. With a creamy filling made from luscious cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk, paired with a vibrant strawberry compote, this dessert not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also adds a burst of color to your table. Easy to prepare, this recipe combines the crunch of a biscuit crust with a silky smooth filling, making it an ideal dessert for both casual gatherings and formal celebrations.

Ingredients

Preparation Time

Servings

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Grind the Biscuits: In a mixer, crush the Marie biscuits or Graham crackers until they form fine crumbs.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the crushed biscuits with powdered sugar and melted butter, mixing well until the crumbs are evenly coated.
3. Chill the Crust: Divide this mixture between two serving glasses or dessert bowls, pressing it down lightly to form a crust. Place the glasses in the refrigerator to chill for about 15 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. Beat the Cream Cheese: In a separate bowl, use a hand mixer or whisk to beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, mixing well until fully combined and smooth.
3. Add Flavor: Beat in the lemon juice and vanilla custard until everything is well incorporated.
4. Fill the Glasses: Spoon approximately 1/4 cup of this creamy filling into each glass over the chilled biscuit crust. Return the glasses to the refrigerator for about 1 hour to set.

Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Compote

1. Prep the Strawberries: Rinse the strawberries under cold water. Remove the hulls using a knife, and cut larger strawberries in half.
2. Zest and Juice the Lemon: Zest and juice the lemon, keeping both the zest and juice separate.
3. Cook the Compote: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, water, and corn flour, whisking well until smooth. Add the lemon zest and juice, followed by the strawberries. Stir gently to combine.
4. Simmer: Cook the mixture over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Initially, it will sizzle, but as the strawberries heat, they will release their juices. Continue to cook, occasionally mashing a few strawberries with a wooden spoon or spatula, until the sauce thickens, approximately 10-15 minutes.
5. Blend for Smoothness: Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat. In a blender, puree about one-third of the compote, then mix this back into the remaining sauce to achieve a delightful texture.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

1. Top the Dessert: Just before serving, remove the chilled glasses from the refrigerator. Top each glass with about 1/4 cup of the strawberry compote.
2. Enjoy: Serve immediately and watch as your guests delight in this luscious, no-bake dessert.

Note: For a shortcut, you may also use one can of pre-made strawberry pie filling, or feel free to experiment with other fruit flavors, such as blueberry or raspberry, to suit your taste preferences.

This No-Bake Strawberry Cream Cheese Dessert is a sweet symphony of flavors and textures, bringing together the creamy richness of cream cheese and the fresh, fruity goodness of strawberries. It’s an effortless way to enjoy a delightful dessert that looks as good as it tastes. Perfect for any gathering or just a special treat for yourself!