Strawberry Cheesecake Dream

This Strawberry Cheesecake Dream is one of my favorite no-bake desserts—creamy, fruity, and layered to perfection. It brings together the classic flavor of cheesecake with the sweet simplicity of strawberry pie filling, and I love how easy it is to assemble in a trifle bowl for a stunning presentation. Whether I’m entertaining guests or just treating myself, this dessert always feels like a special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dreamy, layered treat has everything I want in a dessert—richness, texture, and just the right amount of sweetness. Here’s why I keep coming back to it:

• No baking required: I don’t need to turn on the oven, which is a big win on busy days or warm nights.
• Easy assembly: With layers that come together in minutes, it’s a stress-free option for potlucks or dinner parties.
• Creamy and crunchy: The combo of smooth cheesecake filling and buttery cracker crumbs gives the perfect contrast.
• Beautiful presentation: Served in a trifle dish, this dessert looks just as good as it tastes.
• Make-ahead friendly: I can prepare it in advance and chill until ready to serve.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 cup (8 oz) sour cream
½ cup cold milk
1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
1 carton (12 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed
1½ cups crushed butter-flavored crackers (about 38 crackers)
¼ cup butter, melted
2 cans (21 oz each) strawberry pie filling

Directions

Step 1: Make the cheesecake base
I beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth, then blend in the sour cream. In a separate bowl, I whisk the cold milk and vanilla pudding mix on low speed for 2 minutes. I gently fold the pudding and whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until combined.

Step 2: Prepare the crust layer
I combine the crushed butter crackers with melted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 3: Layer the trifle
In a 2½-quart trifle bowl, I start by spreading half of the cream cheese mixture on the bottom. Next, I add half of the cracker mixture, followed by one can of strawberry pie filling. I repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.

Step 4: Chill and serve
I refrigerate the assembled dessert until ready to serve. Chilling helps the layers set and the flavors meld. Right before serving, I like to add a few fresh strawberry slices on top if I have them on hand.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 10–12 servings.

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Chill time: At least 2 hours (or until ready to serve)
• Total time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Variations

• Use graham crackers: If I don’t have butter crackers, crushed graham crackers or shortbread cookies work great too.
• Add fresh strawberries: I sometimes mix in sliced fresh berries between the layers for extra texture.
• Try other pie fillings: Blueberry, cherry, or peach pie filling makes a great twist on this dessert.
• Make individual cups: I divide the layers into small mason jars or cups for easy, single-serve portions.
• Add lemon zest: A little lemon zest in the cream cheese mixture adds a refreshing citrus note.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in the fridge, covered, for up to 3 days. Since this dessert is best served cold, there’s no reheating necessary—just grab a spoon and enjoy straight from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! I often make it the night before and let it chill overnight. It tastes even better the next day.

Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of frozen?

Absolutely. If I have time, I whip about 2 cups of heavy cream with a little sugar until soft peaks form and use that in place of the frozen whipped topping.

What can I use instead of butter crackers?

Graham crackers, Nilla wafers, or digestive biscuits all make excellent substitutes.

Will this hold up if I take it to a party?

Yes, it travels well in a trifle bowl with a lid. I just keep it cold in a cooler or fridge until ready to serve.

Can I use low-fat ingredients?

Yes, I’ve used light cream cheese, sour cream, and reduced-fat whipped topping and it still turns out creamy and delicious.

Conclusion

Strawberry Cheesecake Dream is one of those desserts that feels indulgent and easy all at once. I love how the creamy filling, buttery crumbs, and sweet strawberry topping come together in every bite. It’s perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or whenever I want to treat myself to something a little extra special—no oven required.

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