Strawberry Lush is a creamy and fruity dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With layers of fresh strawberries, velvety whipped cream, and a tasty crust, it’s sure to be a hit!
This dish has that refreshing taste that makes you feel like summer. I love serving it cold on warm days – it’s just like a sweet hug for your taste buds! 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These serve as the base for your dessert. If you don’t have graham crackers, which are a classic choice, you can use digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers for a different flavor profile.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess and tang. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt or a vegan cream cheese alternative. They can provide a different taste but still work well.
Whipped Topping: I love using Cool Whip for its lightness, but you can make your own whipped cream from heavy cream if you prefer a homemade touch. Just whip it with some sugar until soft peaks form!
Strawberry Gelatin: If you’re not a fan of gelatin or want a plant-based option, use agar-agar for a similar texture. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for the right amount needed to set your dessert.
How do you ensure that the cream cheese layer is perfectly smooth?
Getting a smooth cream cheese layer is all about proper mixing. Start with softened cream cheese to avoid lumps. Here’s how to achieve that perfect texture:
- Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing.
- Use a hand mixer or a stand mixer on medium speed to blend the cream cheese and powdered sugar until it’s creamy and smooth.
- When folding in whipped topping, do it gently with a spatula to keep the mixture airy.
By following these steps, your cream cheese layer will blend seamlessly into the dessert!
How to Make Strawberry Lush?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
For the Strawberry Layer:
- 2 cups strawberries, diced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 cup strawberry gelatin (dry)
- 2 cups boiling water
- 1 cup whipped topping (for layering)
Optional:
- Crushed graham crackers for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Strawberry Lush recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then requires at least 2 hours to chill in the refrigerator. You’ll spend a little time baking, mixing, and layering, but the waiting is all worth it for this refreshing treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Crust:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. Now, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to form the crust. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 10 minutes. After it’s baked, let it cool completely.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:
In a separate medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until it’s nice and smooth. Gently fold in 1 cup of whipped topping until it’s all well combined. Once mixed, spread this creamy layer evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust.
3. Make the Strawberry Layer:
Now it’s time for the fun part! In another bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in 2 cups of boiling water, stirring it until it’s completely dissolved. Let the mixture cool to room temperature. When it’s cool, add the diced strawberries and mix well.
4. Assemble and Chill:
Pour the strawberry gelatin mixture over the cream cheese layer in the baking dish. Place it in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2 hours so it can set up nicely.
5. Finish and Serve:
Once the gelatin has set, spread the remaining 1 cup of whipped topping over the top of the gelatin layer. For a lovely presentation, garnish with extra diced strawberries and sprinkle some crushed graham crackers if you like. Slice into squares and enjoy your chilled Strawberry Lush! It’s a delightful treat you’ll love to share!
Can I Substitute the Strawberries with Other Fruits?
Absolutely! You can use other berries like blueberries or raspberries, or even diced peaches or mango for a tropical twist. Just make sure that any fruit you choose has a similar moisture content to avoid altering the gelatin’s setting properties.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for about 3-5 days. Just note that the crust might soften a bit over time, but the flavor will still be delicious!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make Strawberry Lush a day in advance! Just ensure you cover it well to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge. It’s a great make-ahead dessert for parties and gatherings!
What If I Don’t Have Whipped Topping?
No problem! You can whip your own heavy cream with a bit of sugar (about 1 tablespoon per cup of cream) until soft peaks form as a substitute. It gives a fresher taste and works perfectly in this recipe!
